Psychological readiness and competitive performance in elite para powerlifters across two consecutive training macrocycles

This research explored how psychological preparedness and athletic achievement evolved in elite para powerlifters over two successive 26-week training periods. The initial period employed a standard linear training approach, while the subsequent period utilized a block-modular system coupled with ongoing psychological oversight. Eighteen top-tier male para powerlifters (aged 20-34) were involved in this long-term, experimental investigation. The second training phase featured a modified approach: reduced overall training volume, higher average intensity, a larger percentage of lifts exceeding 80% of their one-rep max (1RM), focused six-week strength-building blocks, planned recovery intervals, and monthly psychological evaluations. The psychological evaluation comprised 30 questions across five areas: competitive stress, emotional steadiness, drive to succeed, self-control, and belief in one's abilities. Throughout both training cycles, researchers measured training demands, physical functioning, psychological readiness, and competitive results.