Training it is then

What's a coach to write about when the races are off the boil ? Training of course.

There’s a lot to like and there’s a few things to work on as always. When I say a lot to like I really mean it too. Some really good sessions coming through and some great consistency. For the consistent athlete the challenge is always the routine and how it can look the same at times. For the athlete that has had a few challenges lately, be it sickness or life throwing curves balls then the challenge is restarting.

Routine and Rhythm :

A big part of what we do is “pounding the rock”. We keep smashing that rock and eventually it cracks and we make our breakthrough. That said, it’s good to consider a bit of block periodisation in your program. A swim week or a bike or run week can mix it up. Basically we are disrupting the space to elicit some mental stimulation and make physical gains. For those that have been in the sport more than 5 years this can be a smart tactic.

Restart :

We have all been there. One or two weeks quickly starts sliding into a month or two of falling off the wagon. The simple tactic of just doing it again sounds easy but it isn’t. You start training again, have lost fitness and as such the pace that goes with it and your mind starts thinking it’s too hard. You must apply patience and have a good plan. A good plan can involve shorter sessions, less sessions, or even going back to starting with run only. Life is probably busy enough while you are making a comeback without making it about 3 sports. Run first, then add bike and finally swim.

The Creep :

The biggest enemy to forward progress in any endeavour is “the creep”. You think you are doing enough but things are still creeping backwards. Tiny bit by tiny bit. It’s imperceptable on a daily or weekly basis. You slip off your nutrition. Your sleep habits aren’t where they should be. The sessions get cut short by little amounts.

You have to get back on top of it. There’s only one way. Nail your nutrition. Hit the bed on time. Make sure those completion numbers in TP are 100%.

I have seen it time and time again. BIG gains coming from tiny changes.

Be a Leader :

Setting high standards for yourself has the benefit of setting them for those around you also. Be the person you would like to train next to. The athlete that always has their kit. The one that shows up even if work held them back 10min. The one that is happy and encouraging. It’s the little things that lift the team and yourself.