Originally a runner, managing my training time was easy. Soon enough I added swimming and eventually cycling, which added hours to my training week and soon found myself looking for new challenges to push my endurance further. As my training time increased, I looked for ways to spend that time as effectively as possible. I have found that you can rarely plan a perfect training week, but with consistency comes improvement and the following are some of the ways that I have been able to stay consistent with my training and fit more in with less time.
1. Train in the mornings.
This is not really saving time, but for me, there is less chances that a training session will be missed or cancelled. My biggest obstacle for morning training sessions though, seems to be getting out of bed.
2. Always have your gear ready and with you.
Knowing where everything is before you start your training, will mean there is more time to focus on getting out the door. If you find yourself with a free hour near a pool or gym, there are no excuses not to use your time if you have your training gear with you.
3. Add strength and stretching to the start or end of a workout.
We all need to do these sessions, but they are usually the first to be missed. Instead of doing a full one hour core and strength work out, maybe do a 20 minute session before your swim workouts.
4. Use your commute to combine workouts.
I will run or ride my bike to work after a morning swim session, spin class or gym workout, which means that my morning commute is no longer wasted time.
5. Use your calendar to plan your workouts.
I have my lunch time runs blocked out in my Work calendar, so no one request a meeting with me during those times. It can be difficult to have all your training in your calendar, but even if you make sure your most important sessions are in there, this can minimise the chance of double booking yourself.
6. Move your training indoors.
Treadmills and indoor bike trainers are a great way for you to have an intense workout without having to leave home. The time savings can be huge if you are not having to drive to a workout.
7. Use high intensity training session.
This is a great way to burn energy in a short amount of time while improving endurance.
8. Training on your lunch break.
I do this once or twice a week, where I can run for 30 minutes, shower and be back at my desk within an hour, making sure I am eating lunch at my desk.
Vince Sesto
Vince Sesto
Tri Swim Coach Ambassador
Vince works as an IT Engineer in Melbourne, Australia where he lives with his cat Tim Tam. He has been a runner for longer than he can remember. He competes in distance running races, open water swims and long course triathlons.
