Whether you are training for an Ironman or simply want to improve your general fitness, having clear objectives and a resilient mindset is key to your success.
Goal Setting
Setting specific goals within a set time frame is a powerful motivator for training. Being ambitious is good, however, it is important to remain realistic (we would all love to win a gold medal at the next Olympic Games but for most of us, smaller goals are more achievable).
Entering a race or event can be a great way to set a deadline as it will allow you to stay focused and set short-term goals which can help with overall motivation.
If you don’t know where to start, seeking advice from coaches or experienced individuals can help make sure your goals are sustainable and will provide you with a fulfilling training journey.
Need somewhere to start? Use our handy Goal Setting form & get feedback from our team on how to move forward.
Data Tracking
Ensuring your goals are measurable is essential as it will allow you to track progress.
Investing in a good cycling computer (or a good sports watch if you will be running) can really transform your training. It will add more precision to your workouts and provide you with valuable insight into data such as heart rate zones, pace & recovery.
Other ways to track your training are by having a paper diary or downloading and logging your sessions on apps such as Strava or Training Peaks.
Mindset
Remaining consistent with training and maintaining a positive mindset will set you apart from other athletes and competitors. It’s important to understand that not every session will result in a personal best or exceptional performance, but the accumulation of training over a number of weeks, months and years will lead to substantial improvements.
Joining a group or training with friends is also a great way to stay motivated and maintain a positive mindset through a training block.
Regardless of your sport or skill level, every athlete is susceptible to over-training. More is not always better and overstimulating the body without adequate recovery can lead to stagnation and potential injury risk. It can stem from various factors such as excessive training load, insufficient recovery time, poor nutrition, or inadequate sleep. Recognising these signs and adjusting your training accordingly will help you maintain a positive mindset and ensure your training programme is balanced and suitable for long-term success.
by Charley Wedderburn
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