Training through the holidays

This time of year can be a tough time to train. There are holiday parties around every corner, travel plans to be had and food. So. Much. Food. 

So how do we keep a good training routine and rhythm when everything else is pulling us away? 

Get accountable

Having someone you are accountable to will greatly increase the odds you’ll actually do the training you want to do. 

This can come in many forms. Set a standing workout “date” with a good friend. Someone who isn’t afraid to meet you at 5:30am when it’s dark and cold, and will be willing to call you out when you don’t show up. (They’ll appreciate it too!)

Hire a coach, even if it’s just for a month. Having someone else give you workouts always brings a heightened level of importance to what you are doing. And, you don’t want to waste your money.

Get some friends and commit to giving to a charity. This is a fun way to also provide support to an organization you love. Make a deal with someone that you’ll give a certain amount of money for every workout you miss. And your friend will donate that same amount for every workout you do. Even if it’s just $5, either way your charity will end up with an additional $150 at the end of the year. 

Get it on the calendar

Make a commitment to yourself that if a training session is on your calendar you’ll do it. Treat it like a meeting with someone else you wouldn’t miss or skip. 

Even go as far as scheduling your workout first and other things around it.

After all, caring for yourself is one of the most important things you can do. Making exercise a priority will benefit you and everyone around you. 

Don’t be a “no-show” for important meetings with yourself. 

Get experimental

In the northern hemisphere there isn’t much going on in the way of racing during this season. It’s a fantastic time to try something new!

It might be a different style of workout session, or it might not even be swim/bike/run at all! 

Whatever it is, something new and fresh is certain to get you more excited about the session and more likely to do it. 

What are some ways you’ve motivated yourself to train during the holiday season? We’d love to hear your tips for others!