Summer is here and in full swing, some of us have already hit the road, air, or sea for a family vacation. But there is still plenty of time left this summer for the rest of us to enjoy some long weekend getaways and family vacations. The question is, how do you stay on track with triathlon training while on vacation and enjoy some rest?
First, it’s important to take time either on your own or with your triathlon coach as soon as you know about your vacation plans and look at your planned time away. When are your travel days, any big “adventure” days, when you may be time-crunched, and days that time is endless? This way the training plan can be modified accordingly and make the best use of your precious time. Depending on what your travel plans include this could simply mean adjusting the week to get in your key sessions before or after your trip. Or this might be a good time for a planned recovery week.
With some pre-planning, okay maybe a lot of planning! You can keep your triathlon training on track while on vacation and progressing in the right direction. Spending some time beforehand is so worth it during your vacation. Especially, when even after a week away and some “indulgence” you can still toe the starting line of your next big race with no real gap in your training. Knowing that you have done everything you could! With prior planning, you can find some new running routes to explore either in a city or out in nature. If your destination is not runner-friendly there is usually a hotel treadmill.
Let’s assume you’re a triathlete that uses a periodization model and can schedule a recovery week to match up with your vacation. You will work hard 2 to 3 weeks before your vacation and then can adjust your recovery week to fit into your vacation plans. Whether it’s a relaxing week at “Aunt Sally’s” house or an adventurous getaway in the mountains you can plan accordingly. Recovery week just can’t line up with time away? No problem! Identify the 3 key sessions you need to get done. This may be a long run, tempo bike, and speed workout. Make sure to fit in whatever your 3 key sessions are for the week and everything else is a bonus!
Lastly, be realistic about your expectations. This is a time to relax and spend time with those around you. If you just can’t get your training in, don’t stress. You will come back from your vacation not only rested but also ready to get back to training!
Carly and Tyler Guggemos built Organic Coaching in 2014 with a simple philosophy that works. The idea is to take what you have and grow it to get faster, fitter and stronger. And to do it with the time you have – not the time you wish you had.
For athletes who are ready to take their training to the next level while still thriving and succeeding in their professional and family life.
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