The Sporting Life: 7 Training Reminders

By Dave Andersen

There are no secrets to getting fit and, quite honestly, it boils down to consistency, hard work, and rest.  Here are some thoughts I keep in the back of my mind as I progress through the season.  I hope you find these helpful:

1. Stay Healthy
   It may seem obvious but if you get injured no other tips or goals matter. Just as in everyone’s life, health is everything. So pay close attention to those twinges and aches. Do what you can (massage, stretch, warm up, rest, sleep, etc.) to avoid getting injured in the first place. It’s better to do too little than too much. Training is about how much you can do and absorb without getting injured.
2. Don’t Worry
   Only worry about what you can control.  Prepare the best you can.  If your competition is stronger there is nothing you can do. And don’t fret about the weather, deal with it.
3. Check Your Pride
   This is a tough one to swallow.  Don’t get hung up on group training bragging rights or become a watt-meter or Strava junkie. Do what you gotta do to prepare yourself for race-day…even if it means not going for the KOM on that next group ride.
4. Less Can Be More
   It’s better to not overdo it and risk injury and possibly months on the sidelines. If you are feeling on the edge, it’s better to back off, go easy, or take a day off.  Some of my best seasons occurred when I didn’t go over-board on training.  Balance and self-awareness are key.
5. Change Can Be Good
   All athletes benefit from change so as not to get stuck in a physical or mental rut. Change your training routes, workouts, paces, groups, gear, etc. to spice it up.  Change will keep you mentally fresh and motivated.
6. Keep Your Eye on The Big Goal
   Tempo workouts, training races, and “B” races are just that. Weather you aim for a local 5K, a state championship, or a stage-race, keep your eye on the big picture to keep you motivated.
7. Keep It Tight
   It takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice to get really fit.  Enjoy the process and don’t overdo it.  The end result is not as important as the journey.  It’s about living a lifestyle that intertwines fitness with family and meaningful work.  In other words, its about keepin’ it tight.

Thanks for reading and see you on the road.

Keep It Tight,

Dave

*Dave Andersen lives in Boston and works in the educational publishing business. He shares his passion for cycling and sport with a wide range of friends and competitors.