The off-season is nearly here. No off-season is a “one size fits all”. The key to a successful winter is finding the perfect balance between being lazy and continuing to train. Overall, your plans should reflect your goals for the upcoming season.
First, set some goals for the off-season. Determine what training can be done and what training should be done. Do you have any specific area of weakness that you can focus on? The weather may restrict some of your training, but technically it should only stop you if it’s severe.
With dedication and focus, the off-season can be very productive. Build your endurance by doing short, hard sessions several times a week. Train indoors if you have to – but most workouts should be an hour or less for each sport. The main focus your plan should be on intensity.
Don’t forget to take time during this off-season to do things that you enjoy doing that you’re not able to do while you’re training. Perhaps it’s yoga, or another sport like tennis, go for some fun hikes, spend time with your family, friends or your dog. If you’re in one of the colder climates, try some mountain biking or cross country skiing. Unless one of them is your weakness, forget about your bike and the pool for a while and enjoy yourself. Remember that there are other things in your life outside of triathlon. Working on your mental health is also important. Your sport is just as much mental as it is physical.
You can’t be “on” 100% of the time. If you try to be, you will just burn out and never reach your goals. Taking some time off – well deserved rest – is not going to hurt you in the long-run. It’s likely exactly what you need in order to come back stronger.
To summarize:
- Take a break
- Determine your off-season and next season goals
- Improve your weaknesses
- Train short, but intense
- Enjoy your other loves in life
If you need help coming up with an off-season plan, contact me today. I will help you come up with the best course of action for you!
Train Right, Tri Right,
Coach MJ
