Endurance training is all about slowly getting the body ready to tackle an event or objective that is going to challenge our ability to endure. This may be a marathon, an Ironman triathlon, or an outdoor adventure objective like climbing a mountain. We usually think of the training as being purely physical. We focus on building our miles, adding intensity, and peaking/tapering prior to the big day. However, our training also goes beyond the physical benefits. Endurance training also prepares the mind.
When we take on hard training, we are training our bodies for the rigors it will face on race day. We also train out mind to be able to endure hardships that we are likely to face as well. We get used to pushing when we are low on glycogen. We get used to the stiffness and soreness that comes with hours on a bike or under a heavy pack. One opportunity to train our mind that many of us neglect is training in bad weather.
If the weather forecast call for cold weather or rain, many of us skip the workout or move indoors. This is a missed opportunity. It can easily be cold or rainy on race day. If that is the first time you are using your super cool tri-bike in the rain, then you might be a bit psyched out for the race. If you had taken the opportunity to ride in the rain during training, you would learn how the bike handles in bad weather and have more confidence in handling adverse weather conditions in the race. You would also learn how to dress properly for the conditions and be able to apply that knowledge in making your race day clothing choices. You would also get used to the feeling of cold hands or cold feet and gain confidence that you can handle some discomfort. While others may be fretting rain at the start of the race you can embrace it.
So, get out there and embrace the weather. Each training session you can do in bad weather will make your mind and body stronger and leave you more prepared with whatever the weather throws at you when the big day comes!
