Baby it’s cold outside! (Well not where we are, we’re in Florida but trust me, I at least wish it were cold. I really do. I’m not even lying.)
But for most of you, it’s cold and if your races are done for the year, you are on the “offseason.” And you might be spending more time indoors.
What will you do with all that time (i.e. how will you continue to burn holiday calories while you’re not training for something?)
We have some tips for you!
First of all, it’s ok to take a brief time out for yourself. If you’re like me, you needed to hear someone else say that, so we’re saying it.
Go ahead, take a break.
Go light. Maybe a week, maybe two depending on how busy you were during the year training and racing. If you had a busy running or triathlon season, your body needs to catch up and heal from all the stress you put it through during the season. Just remember, if you lay off the exercise a little, eat better so you don’t add those calories back on.
OK, break’s over.
When you’re ready to get back at it, here are some things that you can do that will help you burn calories, stay fit and also get you refreshed for the coming year:
-Take classes at the gym unrelated to what you’ve been training for, like body pump, zumba, or kickboxing
-Do yoga or try something new like hot yoga
-Focus on core work
-Focus on strength; do squats, lunges, hill work, etc.
-Reconnect with family members who you might have left in the dust while training throughout the year
-If you’re into triathlon, focus on your weakest discipline
-Run short local races or fun runs
-Join a Master’s swim
-Get a Massage!
The season will be here before you know it and so will your structured training plan! So, do you already have 2012 planned? How are you spending your time until then?