The 6 emotional stages of triathlon training in the snow
There are a lot of ups and downs when it comes to working out in snowy weather
Winter is here, and with it comes training in the snow. Many triathletes will have moved over to the indoor trainer for their cycling workouts for the winter, but a lot of people will continue to run outside all season long. Some hardcore cyclists will even ride outside despite the cold, ice, and snow. With that in mind, here are the six emotional stages you’ll experience on your next training session in the snow.
I don’t want to go
You’re nice and warm in your house, so the last thing you want to do is get dressed up and head outside in the frigid temperatures and snowy, icy roads. After some internal debate as you stare out the window, you’ll end up going, because, let’s face it, you’re committed to your training.
I’m going to slip
The first few hundred metres of your run or ride, you’re going to convince yourself that it was a bad idea to leave your home. You’ll be positive that you’re going to slip, and the urge to turn around will be strong. However, after a little bit, you’ll get used to the feel of the snow and ice and you’ll get more comfortable.
It’s actually nice out
Once you get moving, you’ll realize that it’s actually a nice temperature for working out. This will boost your mood and overall enjoyment of the workout, and soon enough you’ll be having a fun time.
It’s not that bad
You’ll wonder why you considered skipping today’s training session at all. It’s so fun and you’re really doing well. So well, in fact, that you feel you can push things and go a little faster.
I did slip
Because of your overconfidence, you might actually end up slipping. You have to be careful running or riding on slippery streets. At this point, as you dust the snow off of yourself, you’ll tell yourself you definitely should have stayed inside. Since you’re already out, however, you’ll carry on and finish your workout (going about it with a bit more caution, of course).
Home and warm
Once you get home, you’ll be happy you followed through with your training plans. Now you can have a warm shower, get a hot beverage, and relax by the fire before redoing the whole affair again tomorrow.