Time to Read:
Main Points:
- How I'm coping mentally
- Changes to Sport-Specific Training
- My Tips to keep a growth mindset in self-isolation and uncertain times
Time to Read:
Main Points:
In terms of my training, gyms and swimming pools closed, club training sessions off, warm weather training camp cancelled, national and international races cancelled, all for the foreseeable future. I'm still at University and the university physical space has closed, graduation has been postponed and my part-time work has closed, however, I still have online lectures, assignments, group projects and exams in May to keep busy. I moved back home very suddenly, as I had planned to go back for just the weekend for a job interview and a race, bringing only the necessities. I missed saying good-bye in person to my flat mates, sport friends and class mates. We thought we would have two months together with before term ends and graduation, but by Sunday when it came apparent that the university would be shutting, people were self-isolating due to the virus spreading rapidly in the UK. I decided it would be best to be out of a city, with my family.
I’m trying not to dwell on the things I will not be able to do this coming year, but everybody is in the same boat. I am proud of myself for taking every opportunity I have this past year and have some amazing memories with my friends and family. I did the cross country season this winter and I had the opportunity to race a duathlon on Sunday, so I am blessed that I’ve had a chance to compete.
There have been a few changes to my triathlon training, mostly by not training with my run coach or triathlon club, not swimming or having access to a fully equipped gym. I’m using this time to get a good block of training in without the interruption of tapering for races, putting a less pressure on myself, and enjoy getting outside.
Running: My running group is training as a smaller team without our coach (risk group) and we continue our normal three run sessions a week together practising recommended social distancing of 2 metres at all times
Swim: Pools are shut so I’m doing swim specific strength and conditions exercises four times a week, such as using pull bands to replicate front crawl.
Bike: I’ve invested in an indoor turbo trainer, that holds my back wheel and can tell my speed, power and RMP (very clever!). I’ve also brought membership to Zwift, an online training platform, which allows you to ride virtually with friends, it also has work-out plans in. This keep training social and fun while self-isolation! The weather is also warming up, getting less windy and less busy on the roads; so I have been enjoying getting long rides and low heart rate zones sessions outside, by myself or with club mates.
Weight sessions: My sister has invested in some weight equipment such as a 7ft bar, with 80kg of weights, so I can continue incorporating weight training. I am taking more time to stretch and do yoga while skyping my friends, one of which is a yoga instructor.
Stay safe and happy,
Izzy
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