For many triathletes and really anyone, winter can be a difficult time to stay motivated. The days are shorter, and there are not many races during this time, making getting up and putting on the goggles, running shoes, or cycling shoes difficult. However, if you are looking to really improve in your season ahead, winter may actually be one of the most important training blocks of the year. In fact, winter is a great time to fix your weakest discipline in triathlon. Here are a few reasons why the off season allows for a perfect environment to do this.
- Fewer races means less pressure to perform; during race season there is little room to slow down or experiment technique without feeling like you are falling behind. So during this time you are able to focus on form, and able to accept the short term discomfort that comes with this to allow for long term benefits.
- Technique improvements require lower intensity; to improve technique you need focus, repetition, and quality movement. This cannot be done when you are trying to hit speed or interval workouts as it is done during in season training.
- Strength training supports weak disciplines; most triathletes’ weaknesses are tied to strength deficits or imbalances. For example, for running most individuals tend to have weak glutes, swimmers weak scapular stabilizers or rotator cuff strength, and cyclists poor core stability. All of these imbalances can lead to form breakdown, and in the long run an injury. So this is a great time to fine tune these weaknesses to allow for improved performance and prevent injuries.
- Indoor training allows for a controlled environment; during winter most training transitions to be indoors whether it be a treadmill, swimming pool, or trainer rides. Though these can be boring a huge benefit is that it decreases variability whether it be wind, or uneven terrain. This allows you to stay consistent with your focus on form without external factors affecting you.
Therefore, if you are able to focus on your weakest discipline during the off season, you are decreasing your chances of injury, and most importantly you are working towards having a stronger performance in season when it matters the most. So put on those goggles, running shoes or cycling shoes, and start building your base to excel in your season, and not just survive your season!