I admit it. I’ve got the off-season blues. Cue the harmonica.
I take a few months off in the fall—as you can tell by my lack of blogs lately—except for participating in my year-round swim team.
But with no triathlon race schedule to follow, it’s hard to stay motivated. And winter here in New England is not ideal for biking and running outdoors.
Brrr...
So here’s what I’m doing to try and get back into the tri-groove:
- Planning this year’s races. As I said, without a schedule, the most I’ve done lately to get motivated for the next tri-season is to watch Ironman Kona on the Universal Sports network. By mapping out this year’s races, I can set up a training schedule.
- Chrissie Wellington, Triple World Ironman Champion (2007, 2008 and 2009). Photo courtesy of triathlonshots.com
- Setting a challenging goal. I’ve actually signed up for a half-ironman! How the heck am I going to do that? Well, thanks to beginnertriathlete.com, I have a plan to start following.
- Signing up for other types of races. I’ll be attending a few swim meets and running my first half marathon this spring. If you’re lucky enough to go on vacation somewhere warm, try to find a race in that area.
- Meeting with friends for indoor cycling workouts. Every Saturday morning, we meet and do the Spinervals “Have Mercy” workout—or as I call it—the “kill-me-now” workout. I have to admit, I hate indoor cycling, but working out with my friends makes it easier. There’s also spin classes at my gym that I hope to try soon.
- Focusing on strength training. I’ve never done any strength training, despite how often I hear of its importance. I recently bought Strendurance 1.0 – 12 Week Strength Development Program so I’m hoping to improve in that area. I’m also working with my tri-coach to develop an individualized strength training program. If you’re looking for a tri-coach in your area, go to the USAT site.
Please leave me a comment to let me know what you’re doing to motivate yourself during the off-season.
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