Balancing Training with School, Family, and Career
In many ways, athletes in their twenties and thirties have more to deal with than their older counterparts. Many young triathletes will be trying to fit training into a life that already has plenty of demands — work, young children, even school.
Trying to fit triathlon training into your already-crowded schedule can add a lot of stress to your life. That's why you were advised earlier in this book to make sure you have the time to devote to this new pursuit.
There are a few tricks to help you cope with the extra demands on your time. Start with the job. Perhaps your employer will allow you to come to work thirty minutes later two or three days a week, maybe even every day. That will give you time to complete some of your workouts early in the day.
Not having to rush home after work every day and then rush to do a run or bicycle ride will relieve a lot of pressure. Most swim workouts take place in the early morning, and if you can find a running buddy who will meet you a couple of days a week, you will be able to get a lot of good training in before heading for work.
To avoid rebellion at home on the part of your children or spouse, schedule only one weekend day for triathlon training. Stay home and meet your family obligations on the other day. You need a rest period anyway, and relaxing with the family is a good way to recharge the batteries for your next workout.
Consider involving the kids in your training. For example, take them along with you for one of your runs and let them ride their bikes with you as you go. Or take them to the track and ask them to count your laps as you run, with a stop for ice cream on the way home.
You might also look for a triathlon that features two distances, including a shorter one for novice triathletes. Your spouse might be up for one of those, and there is always the option of a relay team for your loved one. You can check with the race director to see if your spouse could be added to a team. That is an ideal way to involve your partner in the event.
Many triathlons take place in vacation destinations. Sign up for one of those and plan on taking the spouse and young ones with you. That will give the whole family a vested interest in the success of your training.
If you are a college student, your schedule will be more flexible. You can book your classes to provide more time in the morning to get your training in, and chances are you will have access to a swimming pool, weight room, and track for running.
The key for everyone is to avoid obsessing about the training. Interruptions in training are going to happen, so don't panic over a missed workout or two. If you miss more than a few workouts, however, you should probably reassess your plans. Losing your entry fee will be insignificant compared to the misery of taking part in a triathlon on grossly inadequate training. Keep your perspective. If you can't get ready, wait.
