Research on periodization has been extensively conducted in individual sports such as track and field and swimming, however, studies on its application in team sports remain limited. This case report examines periodization and training load (intensity and volume) implemented by the Japan Women's Rugby Sevens National Team in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics, specifically evaluating how key training metrics were monitored, adjusted, and their potential impact on performance. To optimize performance at the Olympics, focus points and training loads were strategically planned for each block and phase. Specifically, during the tapering period leading up to the Olympics, training intensity and frequency were maintained, while training volume was reduced to 55-60% of the pre-overload period. Furthermore, the progression of actual training load throughout the periodization cycle was documented in detail. As a result, the physical condition (fatigue level) on the first day of the rugby competition at the Paris Olympics significantly improved (the perceived fatigue score changed from 41.1 to 52.1, p=0.001, 95% Confidence Interval [6.13, 18.87]), leading to the team's best-ever performance (three wins, two losses, 9th place). These findings suggest the effectiveness of periodization, including tapering, in competitive team sports. This report provides valuable insights into the specific strategies and training load management for tournament preparation, contributing to the understanding of periodization in team sports. Notably, the inclusion of numerical data on training loads offers practical implications for coaches and trainers. These findings may provide valuable insights for developing effective conditioning programs in competitive sports settings, although further research is needed to confirm their applicability to athletes in other contexts.
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