Fractal Undulation Training


Abstract Idea:
Fractal undulation is the concept of merging fractal (chaos) theory with undulating periodization. It has been well documented that a necessity of adaptation is variation. The basic concept relies on random number generation to derive reps, intervals, and rest times accordingly. Therefore, two workouts will never be the same.

Introduction:
“Chaos theory is a field of study in mathematics, physics, and philosophy studying the behaviour of dynamical systems that are highly sensitive to initial conditions. This sensitivity is popularly referred to as the butterfly effect. Small differences in initial conditions (such as those due to rounding errors in numerical computation) yield widely diverging outcomes for chaotic systems, rendering long-term prediction impossible in general. This happens even though these systems are deterministic, meaning that their future dynamics are fully determined by their initial conditions, with no random elements involved. In other words, the deterministic nature of these systems does not make them predictable. This behaviour is known as deterministic chaos, or simply chaos.
Chaotic behaviour can be observed in many natural systems, such as the weather. Explanation of such behaviour may be sought through analysis of a chaotic mathematical model, or through analytical techniques such as recurrence plots and Poincaré maps.”

Means:
The programming behind FUT is simple and easy to use. The concept is based off of logical operators and random numbers generated from atmospheric noise (random.org). This means that not only will two workouts never be the same, but each set causes independent variation of the next. In other words, each set causes the next to be random, thus, creating a system that is in entropy but geared towards perpetual adaptation of skeletal muscle.
Does the flap of a butterfly’s wing in Brazil cause a tornado in Texas?
The training protocol is based off of four primary movements. The squat, lift, push, pull, and/or lunge. The user then selects which type of exercise he/she would like to use to fit each primary movement. For example: Squat primaries could include squatting, lunging, single leg, etc. The programming then automates the repetitions, rest, and weight based off the users one repetitions maximum for any given exercise. The true driver of the concept is the random number generation to give repetitions.

Pros:
In the lifetime of the universe, the user will never have the same work out.
Variation is the key to blocking negative adaptation
Perfect for general public or elite athletes (pro sporting players)
Simple easy GUI helps coaches program in minimal time

Cons:
Changing weights may take longer than rest times if not efficient.
Not suitable for strict power lifting or strength training (Olympic Lifting)
Requires mathematical knowledge or basic programming skills to mimic spreadsheet

Final Thoughts:
We see this being an excellent system for the following: breaking monotony in current training regimens, training the elderly, training the elite athlete. This system may also be modified for giving random intervals for cardiovascular conditioning. Further developments would be in the area of exercise physiology to test the underlying mechanisms of action.

Our initial trails have been positive and we have had an excellent response in regards to trainers wanting to use this methodology. We hope to back test this system more in the near future and would like to have others on board, testing the system as well.