Coronavirus - 5 Reasons To Keep Training

The Big Picture

Most of us now have restrictions affecting daily life and for you, as an athlete, this inevitably includes your training. We hope, as I am sure you do, that the measures taken now, will result in the eventual eradication of Covid-19.

With races cancelled or postponed, it can be easy to lose sight of the big picture.

If you are like us, you will train (and perform) best with structure, focus and a clear end goal. It's pretty tough when these are snatched away.

We have identified 5 reasons to keep training:

1. Celebrate Your Training

You will get a chance to race again when normality returns. Racing gives you the chance to celebrate your training, but who says we need a race to celebrate?

Instead, perform your 'race' on the original target date, as a solo effort. Do what you can given your circumstances, split the disciplines if you like, race indoors if necessary and adjust your time goals.

Or choose to race virtually. Whether you choose to race competitively against other virtual racers, or simply enter to stay motivated and achieve short-term personal goals. The training and racing activities you take on now will go a long way to support your longer-term goals. 

Zwift and RGT Cycling have a well-established schedule of race opportunities for cyclists, and IRONMAN has a Virtual Club where you can find virtual events. A quick Google search will take you a great selection of virtual race opportunities to suit your goals and training availability. The Conquer Events offer a multitude of cycling and running challenges. 

2. Improve Future Performance

You probably have a longer time to train ahead of your next race. Use that time to benefit your future outcomes. Identify areas to work on (limiters) that will improve future performance.

These can include endurance, strength and conditioning, flexibility, functional threshold power, speed, skills and more. Train specifically now, for gains in racing later.

3. Make your Big Picture Bigger!

Look ahead for your long-term goals and plan for 2021 and beyond. Research iconic or bucket list races and challenges to help you stay focussed on the bigger picture.

The training you do now, will improve your fitness allowing you to boost your performances in the coming weeks, months and in years to come too. Remember, you are twice as likely to reach your goals if you train with a structured plan.

4. Boost Your Mood

If you're now working from home, you may find you have additional time on your hands without your daily commute. Use this to your advantage and start your day with a workout. Your early morning workout will boost your energy, mood and concentration for the day. The midweek workouts in your plan usually take less than 1 hour, doable before your working day.

5. Fun for All the Family!

You may be facing the challenge of homeschooling. Why not share your love of your sport with the family. Include them in your home strength and conditioning sessions, or go for a gentle jog together - ready-made PE lessons. And did you know that Zwift offers free accounts for under 16s? You never know, they may even enjoy it!

Training at times like these is one of the best things you can do. Stick with it, stay safe and stay healthy. For the latest news, free resources and more information please visit our Covid-19 Support Page.

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