If someone told me a year on we would be in another lockdown, I wouldn’t have believed it. But, here we are!
I wanted to share some thoughts that I hope will help to keep you motivated and focused over the coming months, as we still face uncertainty.
Take it Week by Week
Many of our long term goals are on hold at the moment, but that doesn’t mean it should stop us training. Let’s take it week by week. Although races can help keep us focused, there are so many benefits to exercising, for both your body and mind. Keep focused on your wellbeing to help get you out running, cycling, or whatever your exercise preference is. After a stressful day, it can be just the release you need.
Set Small, Personal Goals
You don’t always have to set yourself big goals. Yes, signing up to an Ironman or a big race can keep you focused and motivated, but let’s also focus on the here and now, and see what we can achieve. Whether it is to run a 10km or a half marathon or set a new PB… what is it that will give you a sense of achievement?
As we are unsure of what races will be held in the coming year, let’s try set these goals that aren’t solely focused on races.
Strength and Mobility
Although we are slightly restricted at the moment, there are still areas that we can focus on. This time of year is the perfect time to build strength. It is an area that people seem to drop first.
Take this time, while things are a bit slower, to build on this. All you need is a kettlebell, some stretch bands, and if you have a swiss ball. Although the gyms are closed, it is amazing what you can achieve with this small amount of equipment at home. I haven’t gone into a gym in almost a year but have kept up my strength by using these.
For those that need a helping hand, I offer weekly online classes for all levels, so just get in touch if interested.
Club Training
Although club training is not possible at this moment in time, when the restrictions are lifted, and outdoor training with others is safe to do again, get back out with others.
Whether it is a track session or a cycle with others, it will definitely give you a boost. When it is safe to do so again, I will be organising more small grouped chip-timed training runs and cycles. These should give you a boost, and give you something to work towards.
In Conclusion…
It is a really tough time for many people, but I am really optimistic that good things will come from 2021. Let’s do what we can to keep everyone safe, including ourselves. Keep your fitness up… races will come back, and it will be nice starting with a strong base level of fitness.
If anyone has any questions or wants to chat about where they are at, please get in touch with me.
