Ok, seriously, do you need to do that 6 hour ride on November 29th? Or that 18 mile run? If you are traning for a December or January IM or marathon, the answer is yes! But for the rest of us, take this time to do the things that you have been neglecting all year. Most importantly rest your body and mind!! Many people do not take the adequate rest and relaxation time they need year after year, only to wonder why they are burnt out in June/July every season. It is ok to rest and deviate from what your crazy triathlete or cyclist friends are doing now 
You will be the one feeling amazing all season long! It does work, give it a try!
Now about those Off season training programs….Hmm, unless they are super easy, include strength and core workouts, and adequate amounts of stretching and recovery, I would say no to them. I learned the hard way this last season. While my athletes were dong amazing, I was trying out a different method for myself only and got hurt. The only sport that is ok to continue to work hard in over the winter is swimming. With the help of a master’s swim coach, you can thrive in the pool and remain injury free. It’s is way less stressful on your body. Cycling and running during the off season of course is great, but not 6 hours or 20 miles, you get the point!?
Try to add in some fun spin classes, good core workouts, strength sessions or TRX. If you want to have even more fun try stand up paddling or surfing. You will get in an awesome workout and what better way than to be outdoors in the ocean or in a lake It may not be easy for those of you to in the MidWest or on the East Coast until the spring. West Coasters, you have no excuses!! You may even want to try sports you’ve always wanted to try, diving, skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, soccer, to name a few. All are great for endurance athletes.
Rest up, relax, take care of all that good stuff you’ve been putting off and have fun! You will be fresh and rejuvenated come January 1st!!
6 Comment(s)
Damie said:
that is what I keep telling myself!!!!! humor aside, it is great advice
Heather said:
What great advice! I was just thinking that cross country skiing and snowboarding will be good cross-training and cardio this winter. Not sure about the chocolate chip cookie eating though…
Caroline said:
I totally agree with you! Thanks for the reminder…it will help quiet my mind tomorrow and this weekend when everyone tries to get me out on those group rides.
Angelina said:
Well said. Belle cute as ever.
kelly williamson said:
great post! this is so true. i try to do ’something’ most days (well, who am i kidding; i am very antsy, all days) but resist the urge to feel it has to be as crazy as most months of the year. good advice!!
Jennifer Cunnane said:
Great advice Eileen! Rest up to have your best season ever… something all of us need to remember. It helps with the holidays to have all the distractions!