Variation in training and racing

The body loves variation… it adapts, evolves and generally thrives with variation.

So in training, vary the stimulus and really embrace the different ways you can change it: cadence, effort, duration, length, terrain, location. This keeps it interesting, motivating and engaging mentally and emotionally but also means that the body is constantly adapting. And this is a good thing.

And come race day, lean into this concept, and allow for variation within your race. Using the confines of your physiology and training as a guide inject some variation… this might be changing shape of stroke in the water, varying cadence to suit terrain or environmental conditions on the bike or mixing up the pace, perhaps even the inclusion of walking on the run. Race strategy should not be about holding a single heart rate, cadence or power all day but allowing for variation based on how you are feeling, the terrain, the conditions etc… this is practiced in training.

A training program should promote consistency through the use of a varied, motivating and stimulating approach to session design.

Mix it up and have some fun.

Happy training, happy racing.