Run Into the Offseason Actively

TRISTEPS: LIZ ELLIOTT 

   The Off Season is important for any triathlete. A time to rest your body, and mind, to rejuvenate your love of movement and sport.  

   During the triathlon season that is February through September, you need to focus on all aspects of triathlon “” the swim, the bike, the run, transitions, speed work, racing.  Ugh. All of this can be overloading, physically yes, but mostly mentally. Take advantage of the “off season” of triathlon. “Off Season” of triathlon is traditionally October through January, and you are not really “off”.  

1. DO ACTIVITIES YOU ENJOY. Continue cross train through the fall and winter, but if you feel like going for a bike because the weather is super nice and you enjoy it most, then go for a bike.  

2. BRANCH OUT. Try new events. Participate in events you wouldn’t normally do during triathlon season.  

3. GET FRIENDS AND FAMILY INVOLVED. During the off season there is more time to go for a relaxed, leisurely run or ride with the kids, your wife or husband, or friends.  They may become your new training partners come February. 

4. FOCUS ON YOUR WEAKNESS. If swimming is your weak area, then join a swim class or take private lessons over the winter. There are lots of indoor facilities all over the Bay Area. And, this is California “” the weather is nice year-round.

5. WORKOUT AT TIMES/PLACES YOU LIKE. If your tri club usually meets in evenings, but you prefer morning workouts, take advantage of the off season to workout in the mornings.  

6. ENJOY FOODS YOU LIKE. Fall and winter have many wonderful family holidays.  Enjoy!  

   Change things up and have fun with your fitness over the fall and winter. You deserve it. Take some time to reset your love of movement and this great sport, and you’ll be raring to go come February. 

Liz Elliott was an All-American collegiate swimmer and is the head coach at Tri-Valley Triathlon Club.