Seasonal Transition
By Todd Waldner
As the door closes on another triathlon season and the doors have opened for another year of school, we transition with all the memories of our summertime fun. Fall begins with shorter days, cooling temperatures and color changes in the outside world where we practiced and played through the summer. Following close behind with a strong presence is winter, bringing us an unpredictable assortment of weather.
I know we all had lots of fun this summer learning more about the sport of triathlon. So, as young aspiring triathletes, what now? As we transition through this offseason there will be changes in our lives and activities. Let’s look at some things we can do during this time so when triathlon season rolls around again, we’ll be ready for what we love to do.
Your location may play a significant role in what you can do outside during the offseason. As triathletes, we love the outdoors so the activities we choose to engage in may be specific to our location. Participating in school sports is a good way to stay active and ready for next triathlon season. In the fall you may run cross country. This and springtime track season are great opportunities for you to continue to develop your running skills and endurance. Encourage your family to run together, or explore the local running events in your community for youth-appropriate distances. Enter these events with your parents or friends and have a great time.
Road and mountain biking are other fun activities if the weather cooperates. This is another activity to do with your family and friends. If you have a youth cycling group in your area, join in and have some fun with a group of youth road or off-road cyclists.
Does your school have a winter swim program? Swimming is a great activity you can do all year long. There are lots of indoor facilities with swimming programs throughout the winter. Stay active and meet new friends (you might even tell them about triathlon and encourage them to try one) while developing your swimming skills.
If you have access to a gym with your parents, see if there are any youth core strength training programs, yoga or other classes for kids. Dance is another great indoor activity. If you have a coach, ask what other activities might be suggested during this transition time.
Winter sports can be really fun and there are lots of choices. Hiking, kayaking, snowboarding, downhill skiing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice skating and ice hockey are outdoor activities you might already do, or might be fun to try, when snow starts to fall.
As the coach of a youth triathlon team, I believe what is most important is staying active and having fun throughout all the seasons. Don’t forget the importance of school and what you need to do to perform at your best and accomplish all your schoolwork. Along with staying active and getting the proper amount of sleep, make healthy food choices to support your active, growing lifestyle.
Try something new this season, and start dreaming of the return of the warm summertime fun called triathlon!
WANT YOUR PROFILE IN THE MAGAZINE?
Answer the questions in the profiles you see on page 3 and email your answers (and a close-up picture) to
communications@usatriathlon.org with “youth profile” in the subject line.
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