5 Emotional stages of an early morning workout during the holiday season
When it comes to winter workouts, our furry friends and training partners can make all the difference
Photo by:
Kevin Mackinnon
It seemed like a great idea at the time – sign up for an early season half- or full-distance race so that you’ll have lots of time to recover for, ideally, the world championship, or another race later in the season. Then your coach explained to you that you’re going to have to start ramping up your training through December. Yes, at exactly the time everyone else is backing things off in order to take in all the parties and social gatherings December seems to include, you’re suddenly doing early morning sets.
That’s OK, though. You’re a triathlete. It isn’t supposed to be easy. And there’s lots of great support to help you along the way.
1. The alarm goes off …
Good thing you decided to get that furry friend during COVID, right? And even better that said furry friend loves to be active, just like you used to. Of course, setting the alarm a half hour earlier than the good ol’ days so you can get Fido out for a quick jaunt before you start working out makes things that much tougher. But at least one living being in the house is excited to start the day.
2. Holy crap … it’s cold
You know you’re in trouble when Fido realizes that the world was a much cozier and warmer place back inside. Good news is that he’ll be quick. Bad news is that its not going to be any easier to drag your butt to the gym or pool for that session.
3. Aren’t you glad you joined that new tri group?
You knew that the best way to make this training thing happen this winter was to join a group! And who knew that there were going to be so many morning people who seem to revel in early-morning sessions? It’s hard to stay grumpy with so many keeners on hand.
4. You know, some mornings can be pretty spectacular!
So why don’t we do this all the time? The sky looks amazing, the water is so calm, the dog is in heaven chasing his ball and you’re actually getting a pretty decent workout done. The day is setting up pretty well – one workout done early, with a shorter session set for lunch so you can still enjoy the evening for yet another holiday party.
Being a triathlete is pretty cool
It’s all about the journey, right? Things are on track to nail that spring race. You’re staying on track with training, work and family life through the holidays, dusting all those folks who chose to sleep in this morning and are still trying to catch up. Bring on tomorrow’s session(s)!
