Off Season

10 Nov 2007

“The Off Season” Having been involved in this sport now for 10 yrs or so I have learned that there is really no such thing as an off season. I have found it is much easier and enjoyable to follow training plan that is designed to build strength and improve skills rather than taking complete rest. That is not to say I don’t have a few weeks of non-structured training and rest, because the mind needs a rest too.

Learning from Professional triathletes I now look at the winter months as the “pre season” rather than the off-season.  After the racing season is done for the year I take a few weeks of rest and have a non-structured plan. Meaning I do what I want when I want. Also I allow myself to enjoy some of those foods I may stay away from during the season. This is also a great time to catch up on the things you have been put off for way too long. Catch up with some friends you haven’t seen for awhile, but most importantly let your mind un-wind, relax and enjoy.

Once I feel rejuvenated (2 weeks or so) I begin my prep or preseason. Now this is by no means get right back after it training, but a slow progression back into training. Some of you may be saying not for me, but I promise you if you approach the preseason properly not only will you be happy you did, but also you will be a better athlete because of it. Those of my athletes who elect to participate in a preseason program follow a specific strength training program designed to build strength not mass, so when racing season starts their bodies are strong, well balanced and ready to endure our long season and resist injury.

How many of you try to integrate strength training into your regular training schedule? Ever feel like there is never enough time? Does you gym sessions leave you too tired to complete your sport specific training? If you are like most you answered yes and with good reason. Like life in general there is a time and place for everything. Racing season is not the time to build general strength.

Other areas I have my athletes focus on are

• Technique

• Easy aerobic base training

• Flexibility

Incorporate a sound preseason training plan into your year and you will limit those extra pounds from the holidays, build a strong foundation on which to build and take a step towards reaching your goals!

Richard Nixon