07/14/2024
In the summer months, it can be easy for the training load for endurance athletes to balloon. Periodization theory in sports traditionally focuses on the summer months as a period in which cross-country skiers complete a large volume of training. Many athlete’s training plans will follow a progressive increase in training volume. Therefore, managing favourable summer weather, longer daylight, vacations, and training plans with the expectation of increased training is critical for athletes (and coaches).
This is a crucial period for athletes to be mindful in their training, to understand and remain within their current training capacities. It is essential to challenge yourself, but not to the point of overtraining. Don’t mindlessly do more, hoping or expecting that a linear progressive training plan leads to greater adaptations and better fitness. More frequently, the results of chasing improvements are overreaching-fatigue, injury, sickness, poor sleep, burnout and stagnation. Listen to your body and mind. Feel for signs and messages that you are ready for more. Be mindful that sometimes, less is more.
Read the full post—The Dog Days of Summer: Being Mindful With Training Decisions—at thefirstlap.com/blog
