Your Race Season Is Over So Now What?

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As the season comes to an end many athletes reflect on what went really great and areas they can improve upon.  Going into the year the races I had planned were the Boston Marathon, Ironman Maryland, and Mountain Man Half and Olympic distance triathlons.  I wanted to do a marathon in January but I wanted to do it with my dogs so it wasn't something I was doing for time just for fun.  My A races were Boston and IM Maryland.  I did end up doing a few local Olympic distance triathlons as well.  I don't like to over schedule races because I think it can lead to stress and too much pressure and  its important  to remember that we do this for FUN!  

Now that its the end of the season is a great time to work on building some strength and maybe doing strength training if you've been neglecting it.  If your a triathlete its a great time to work on improving the discipline that you might struggle in.  If you're a bad swimmer then in the off season I'm sure the last thing you want to do is swim.  Guess what........you should be in the pool in the off season!  Here are some tips to prepare now for next year:  

  • Take a few weeks off or take it very easy and don't follow a schedule. 
  • Think about what races you plan to do next year.  I am very particular in planning my season.  I pick 1 or 2 big races and work around those.  I don't like to randomly throw in races at the last minute.  I'm not saying I don't do that but I always have a specific plan that focuses around those big races.  
  • When planning your season be realistic and give serious thought to your personal life and how your training will fit in.  Don't be over zealous because this can lead to burnout and disappointment.  
  • If you're a triathlete use the off season to focus on your weakness.
  • Incorporate an extra day of strength training, functional training or yoga in the off season when you have more time. 
  • Set realistic goals for the season and for each planned race.
  • Discuss your planned races with your family to make sure they are on board with your decisions and the time you'll need to commit to training.  


     















Running a marathon with my dog Pacer was so much fun she's simply amazing!  Finishing my 13th Ironman was a pretty cool accomplishment.   

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