WELLNESS TIPS: What To Do in the Off Season to Maintain Focus

I admit it, I struggle to maintain my focus in the off season. I love racing and participating in events during the summer, but more than once last summer, it occurred to me that I could run faster or cycle longer if only I had worked harder in January or February.

Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated in the off season:

1. Register now for a race or an event in the summer. If you have something to train for (and have already paid money to register), it is much easier to maintain your focus because you know there is a deadline ahead.

2. Hire a personal trainer. This doesn’t have to be expensive, especially if you get a friend or two to join you and share the cost, or if you have the trainer come to the gym where you live (if you live in an apartment or condo). Some trainers can even create an outdoor workout for you. Having a trainer will ensure that you are doing exercises correctly and effectively and it will help hold you accountable.

3. Try a new sport. Now is the time to think about adding something new to keep your interest. Perhaps there is something you’ve always wanted to try, like swimming or climbing. Maybe your gym has a new class it is offering. Maybe you’d like to try hiking or snowshoeing. They key is to find something that will keep you interested and challenged.

4. Lose a few pounds. If you are doing lots of events or racing during the summer, it will be difficult for you to lose weight because you will need to fuel your activities by eating a bit more. The off season is the perfect time to shed a few pounds because your activity level is usually a bit lower. You will be amazed at how much faster you will run in the summer if you are 5-8 pounds lighter.

Deborah Nelson