Okay, so your training went into hibernation during the winter. The sun is warming the air and you are starting to plan for the upcoming racing season. Time for a tune up!
Six keys to gearing up for the months ahead:
Be Realistic
Sit down and evaluate where you are really at physically and mentally. Individuals of every size and shape will experience greater improvement, and do so with less risk of injury, if they create a training routine that is consistent with their current fitness level. Now is the time to slow comfortable swimming sessions, bike rides, and running. Work on mechanics and gradually increase the length of your workouts.
Set Goals
Develop goals consistent with your level of fitness and years of competition. In some sports, like triathlon, it can take several years to reach a competitive level. Set targets that allow you to compete with yourself. The Olympic motto, "Citius, Altius, Fortius" does not mean Swifter, Higher, Stronger than everyone else, it means to reach levels you have never reached before.
Develop True Motivation
Identify why you want to become more fit, more healthy, or more competitive. Write these reasons in your training log, on your running shoes, or put them up on the refrigerator. Take pride in your progress, trust in your training, and believe in yourself. Everyone struggles now and then, but remembering why you started and what you will accomplish will help you when the doubts begin.
Commit
Sign up for the race or races you want to do this season. Racers the world over know that training truly begins when you put your money down and sign the dotted line. Perhaps the most common reason for failing to reach a goal among those who want to race is the procrastination of committing to an event. Don't give yourself an excuse!
Be Flexible
Most of us dream about the unencumbered life that allows for everything we want to do and is void of things we have to do. In the days, weeks, and months ahead the challenges of life will present themselves. When training is shorten or cannot be complete to attend to things that are most important be flexible and stay mentally strong. Life happens to everyone.
Patience and Persistence
Tolstoy said, "The two most powerful warriors are patience and time". You cannot change the past and you are not ready for the future, but you can control the present. As you train remember to "be here, now!" and each training session will become a stepping stone to success!
In every neighborhood, in every city, in every state, individuals are just beginning to shake off the effects of winter. The months ahead provide opportunity. Take advantage of the opportunities and enjoy the promise.
Comments, thoughts, questions
Twin Falls, Idaho
Twin Falls, Idaho
