Low back pain (LBP) is a significant health problem and the leading cause of disability throughout the world, representing one of the most common reasons for primary care physician visits, with a lifetime prevalence reported as high as about 80%. It causes a significant economic and social burden that will become even more daunting in the coming decades. People with LBP are 2.5 times more likely to experience psychological distress and pain compared to normal people, which can adversely affect quality of life. Low back pain is commonly classified as nonspecific or specific due to the reported cause and as acute (<6weeks), subacute (6-12 weeks), or chronic (>12weeks) according to the duration of symptoms. A periodized training model is considered more effective at improving the physiological function than non-periodized (basic progressive overload), as it allows progressive adjustment of volume and intensity of training program.periodization is defined as the planned manipulation of training variables (load, sets, and repetitions) in order to maximize training adaptations and to prevent the onset of overtraining syndrome. Various periodization models exist: undulating periodization comprises a frequent variation in stimuli between low, moderate, and high intensity typically on a weekly basis, whereas traditional linear periodization typically contains low load and high volume in the initial phase of training with a gradual shift towards high load and low volume as the training progresses. Periodization may also be beneficial due to adding variation to workouts by manipulating sets, repetitions, exercise order, number of exercises, resistance, rest periods, type of contractions, or training frequency. Another added benefit is the avoidance of training plateaus or boredom. Thus it seems reasonable to consider a periodized training model in the management of those with NSCLBP.
