Winter Training - Being Prepared

For many of us in colder climates, winter training for triathlon brings many challenges. Cold weather and short days provide us with ample excuses to not train. One of the biggest challenges can be running. Many do not have a personal treadmill available, and most clubs have restrictions on the amount of time a guest can use a treadmill.

I admit I am sort of wimpy when it comes to cold weather running, but it is a necessity. My advice is prepare. First, dress in layers. Once it drops to the 30's quit being "that guy" and cover exposed skin. Generally I add a layer for ever 10-15 degrees ( but that's just me). So for a 30 degree run, I'd have two shirts and one pant, (of course hat and gloves). Then add a layer per body part for every 10 degrees.

Then comes the problem that most of us deal with as well, is the lack of daylight. I run either before or after work, when it is dark and generally colder. Make sure to grab a reflective vest and some sort of flashing beacon to wear.

My personal problem is I always feel so big and bulky wearing all the gear and running in the dark, so I just bought a treadmill. Should be delivered next week. Like I said I'm a wimp with cold weather running.

Season anew

While it has been some time since I've last posted, I have actually been involved with a lot to keep me busy. My season has started well, I have been nursing a sore shoulder, which had limited my swimming for a while. My goal and focus this season has been the development of my weaknesses particularly my cycling and leg strength.

I fell that it is always good to have goals for personal improvement throughout the season and throughout life. It allows us to focus and be reminded of a particular task at hand. As many of you start anew with your training season, having given into some much needed holiday rest, remember it will get easier. The winter with its short days and cold nights make training tough. As most do not have an "A" race planned in the near future, your likely doing nothing but long, slow, boring base building. But there will be a reward later.

Our sport has so many positives, from fitness, to relationships, to achievements. Having just been dealing with a difficult personal situation I will reaffirm this season to always try and see the positive.