We all know that feeling - the days are getting shorter, the nights are getting longer and it’s time to dig out those leggings or jogging bottoms from the back of the wardrobe!
Winter is here and staying motivated to train starts to become an issue. But fear not! Here’s some advice on how to make the most of your winter training so when spring arrives, you’re in prime position to crush your summer training and goals!
Step 1 - Have a winter training goal
It’s inevitable that the motivation to get up and go to the gym, or to get out on the bike will falter during the winter period. Nobody likes being cold, wet and miserable! The first step on the road to combatting this is to make a goal for your winter training.
For example, if your sport is cycling, your goal could be to improve your top-end speed; if you’re a runner, it could be to build unilateral (single leg) strength and endurance.
The point is, having a goal allows you to attach a focus to your winter training and therefore stay a lot more motivated.
Next, make a plan…
Step 2 - Make a plan
At the start of the month or week, look at your diary and availability to train. This will allow you to plan your time effectively and maximise your time spent training.
Have a think about your nutrition: do you need to prep food for the forthcoming day? Have you thought about how you’re best going to fuel your training? Are you making sure that you’re drinking more water than you are coffee?!
As they say: fail to prepare and prepare to fail. The small wins will subsequently add up to bigger wins on the road to achieving your goals.
Step 3 - Hire a professional
Hiring a coach or PT at this time of year can be a great idea.
Your time is precious, so when it’s dark at 4pm and you still haven’t made it to the gym, having a coach or PT can be a great way to keep you on the path towards achieving your desired goal.
A professional will also be able to help you effectively plan your training successfully so you’re not wasting time doing something that ultimately won’t help you with achieving your desired results.
Lastly, a good PT or coach will push you harder than maybe you would if you were on your own. If they’re especially good, they’ll tell you if you’re working too hard and need to chill out or slow down!
Step 4 - Get a training partner
You’re way more likely to go to the gym or out on your bike if you’ve got someone to train with (sure, you’d bail on yourself but would you let down your best mate? Evidence suggests not!).
Having a training partner can really help you to stick to your plans in the bleak midwinter, so make a pledge to encourage one another and commit to set training sessions.
Adding in some friendly competition, whatever that may be, could also be motivation to you both for getting through the winter months.
Step 5 - Stay positive
Quite possibly the most important point of all is to approach your winter training with a positive mindset and attitude.
Keep strong habits and beliefs through winter and you’ll be a step ahead when the warm weather arrives.
If you fail to hit your weekly goals or miss a workout, don’t panic. Get straight back on track at the earliest opportunity.
Try the above points and no doubt you will crush your winter goals!
Words by Reebok