A New Notebook

Well, it's that time of year when I break out a new notebook. The 2010 triathlon season has ended and my athletes are starting to think about next year.

Maybe I'm old-school or maybe technologically challenged, but I still like to map out a season on paper. Not only is it easier visually, for me to grasp the 'big picture' but I like the feel of the pages and the ability to flip back and forth as I make lists and plan out weeks.

I start by writing down the date of each Monday during the training period. I group the weeks into larger cycles - sometimes those are months, sometimes 6-week blocks, sometimes 3-week blocks. Each 'block' has a training goal, as does each week. For each week, there is a designated purpose and each workout within that week is tailored to meet that purpose. Some workouts during the week are more important than others and I designate those as 'key' workouts, so my clients will know that they are non-negotiable. Other workouts are just fillers, or the 'supporting' activities to the key workouts for the week.

By doing this, it's easy for me, throughout the year, to maintain focus and to remember what the goals are. It's a proven system, and well documented in a number of triathlon training manuals.

But the notebook has greater meaning to me personally. I've always been a fan of school supplies. There's nothing like that shopping trip in the Fall, or as it occurs now, in the summer, to shop for school supplies - new notebooks, pencils, pens and rulers. I use all that stuff in my training toolbox. I color code things. The new notebook looks fresh and promising with it's crisp white pages. It seems to promise that next season is going to be even more fabulous than the one that's just ended.

Now, that I retire last season's notebook, I look at it fondly....like an old friend. I carried it everywhere - to work, to Starbuck's, to the gym. I kept in the car when I picked my kids up in case I had a few minutes to ponder. Furthermore, I kept notes on Webinars in it; notes from conversations with clients. It's something of a Bible to me, or more accurately, like a security blanket. I have no doubt, that as I plan for the new season, I will refer to my old friend for advice. Because with training, it's never out with the old and in with the new. There's always something to be learned from last season. Each season holds it's own lessons.

So break out your new 'notebook' this season. If you're not already, keep a training journal. If you haven't already, commit to paper, your goals. It's fun and rewarding and you'll be glad you did.