When planning a schedule for a triathlete a coach must consider the demands of training for 3 sports, the athletes current level of proficiency in those sports, time available to train, race goals, etc... But more importantly is the rest days or recovery weeks in training that help allow the athlete to recover from the stress of training, and adapt to a new level of fitness. In my opinion, it is better to come into a race 10% under trained than 1% over trained. Rest is an important part of training (see March 4th blog post) but sometimes the type A or double AA triathlete has a hard time figuring out what to do with themselves on a rest day/recovery week. So, here are just a few things you can do when the schedule calls for a little down time, to prevent you from going nuts.
Rent or go to a movie
Watch a sunset
Take a nap
Go for an easy 20-30 minute walk
Call an old friend
Read anything non-sporting related
Try a new recipe
Volunteer at a race
Get a massage
Go grocery shopping
Have your favorite dessert because you can
Make your own energy snacks
Catch up on laundry/house chores
Did I mention take a nap?
Go listen to some live music
Bike maintenance
Play an instrument or learn a new one
Find a free community event to attend
Rest days/recovery weeks are an important for both the body and mind. Incorporate them into your training plan to stay healthy, happy and balanced as you move towards your fitness goals.
Make it a great week,
Coach Eric
I need to print this out and hang it up! It's taken me a few years but I definitely appreciate the days off more than I used to. Did you really eat that (I would!)
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