Ah, the post-holiday blues hit us all, don't they? Even the most seasoned triathletes find themselves grappling with a slew of questions as they dive back into training after a festive hiatus. Let's unpack these queries with a blend of humor, personal insight, and a dash of motivation.
Was the pool always this icy?
Jumping back into the pool can feel like a polar plunge after weeks of holiday indulgence. Remember those days when you'd bravely dive into the chilly waters without a second thought? It's the same old temperature, my friend. Your body just needs a little reminder that yes, you are indeed a triathlete, and a few shivers won't keep you from those laps. Give it a couple of turns, and you'll warm up to the idea—quite literally.
Did my bike seat always feel like a medieval torture device?
Ah, the good old bike seat dilemma. No, there hasn't been a conspiracy against your comfort; it's just that your posterior has forgotten the firm embrace of your cycling saddle. No amount of cushioned shorts can spare you from the initial discomfort, but don't worry, you and your bike will soon be back on good terms.
Isn't the sun supposed to be up by now?
The dark, cold mornings can be a shock to the system. You've enjoyed those lazy mornings, snuggled up till the sun peeks through. But now, it's back to the grind before dawn breaks. It's tough, but the quiet streets and the first light of the day make it worthwhile. Plus, there's something quite poetic about beating the sun to the start of the day, isn't there?
I wasn't this slow before the holidays, was I?
Speed is a fickle friend. It tends to drift away quietly when we take breaks, but don't let that sluggish feeling dishearten you. Like any good relationship, a little bit of effort and consistency will bring back the pace you're missing. It's just a matter of time before you're back to breezing past your benchmarks.
Should I switch to a less demanding sport?
During the holiday gatherings, tales of less demanding sports might have tempted you. Soccer with friends or a casual hockey league sounds less strenuous than the triathlon grind. But remember, you've invested not just money but passion and perseverance in triathlon. The grass might look greener, but you've cultivated a field worth harvesting in triathlon. Stick to it, because the rewards are just around the bend.
Will I ever feel good again in this sport?
Absolutely, you will! It's natural to doubt when you're gasping a bit more than usual, and your muscles are reminding you of their existence with a bit of ache. But with each training session, you're shaking off the rust, rekindling your body's memory of strength and endurance. Soon enough, you'll feel that invigorating rush of a good swim, ride, or run. It's just around the corner.
So, lace up your shoes, adjust your goggles, and get ready to remind yourself why you fell in love with triathlon in the first place. The journey back might be a bit bumpy, but the destination remains as rewarding as ever. Let's get back to training with a renewed spirit and a smile, ready to tackle the challenges and reap the joys of our beloved sport.
Why does the pool feel colder after a training break?
The pool's temperature hasn't changed; it's the same as it was before your break. You were just accustomed to the cold water. After a few laps, you'll warm up and feel ready to continue.
Why does my bike seat feel uncomfortable after time off?
After a break from cycling, your body may have forgotten just how uncomfortable the bike seat can be. Even with comfortable shorts, it might take some time to readjust.
Why is it still dark when I start my early morning workouts?
During your break, you might have gotten used to sleeping in. The sun rises later in the winter, meaning early morning workouts will often start in the dark until the days get longer.
Why do I feel slower after a holiday break?
Feeling slow and sluggish after a break is normal, as your body needs time to readjust to training. With consistent effort, your speed and fitness levels will return to normal.
Should I consider switching to another sport?
While other sports might seem more enjoyable, remember why you love triathlon and the investments you've made. Consider these before making any hasty decisions about switching.
Will I ever feel good in my training again?
Yes, you'll start feeling like your usual self after a week or two of consistent training. Your fitness and confidence will return across swimming, cycling, and running.
#TriathlonTraining #PostHolidayFitness
Source: https://triathlonmagazine.ca/training/6-questions-triathletes-ask-during-their-post-holidays-return-to-training/
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