Whether you find yourself in “self-isolation” due to a global pandemic like COVID-19 or live alone and are seeking more ways to train solo, it’s imperative to stick to a training schedule in order to successfully train for your upcoming event. While training can seem easier with a teammate or coach by your side, being able to focus on yourself and your personal training schedule and goals will help give you the drive to move forward in your training.
Take a look at these 5 ways to manage triathlon training alone:
1. Write Down Your Goals
The primary component of succeeding in triathlon training is having an established training schedule. Make sure your goals (daily/weekly/monthly) are written down so you can physically see them with each new day of triathlon training.
2. Hold Yourself Accountable
When you’re able to train with a teammate or within a group, it’s much easier to be held accountable for each training session. If you have other people relying on you to show up, you’re much less likely to skip a training session. When you’re training alone for a triathlon, it’s important to discover and focus on self-discipline. You are the only one who has the power to push through each training session. Stay focused and keep your eye on the finish line.
3. Keep Safety a Priority
While safety is always a top priority whether you’re training with a group or solo, it can certainly be more difficult when alone. You physically don’t have a teammate there to watch your back or call for help if an emergency arises. Whether you’re training indoors or outside, being alone means that you have to be vigilant. Try to stick to open and well-lit places and know how to call 911 if needed. If you feel the need, you can always carry a small can of pepper spray in your belt or pocket for easy access.
4. Find a Virtual Teammate
While you won’t have someone physically beside you if you’re training solo, you can find a virtual teammate to cheer you on. Not only can a virtual teammate or group motivate you during your training but they can also make you feel more accountable when it comes time to show up for each day of training.
5. Utilize a Triathlon Coach
Similar to a virtual training buddy, a professional triathlon coach is the ultimate virtual teammate. Not only can they mentally cheer you on and help you hold yourself accountable, but they are professionally trained to take your triathlon training to the next level. Hiring a triathlon coach will give you the tools you need to successfully train alone.
Whether you’re training for your first or tenth triathlon, sticking to a training program can be difficult when you’re tackling it alone. If you have to manage training alone you’re forced to grow your self-discipline, work on self-discovery, and truly tune into and stick with your training plan. Is training for a triathlon alone easy? Absolutely not. Is it worth it? Yes!
Need a professional triathlon coach who will give you the tools you need to succeed and help you with your triathlon training? Contact me today to get started!
Train Right, Tri Right,
Coach MJ
