3 Tips to Avoid Triathlon Training Burnout

But every once in awhile, even the most seasoned and fitness-focused individual finds themselves with a lack of motivation. They've either fallen into a dreaded routine or are uninspired to even complete a workout. 

Burnout isn't too common among professional triathletes. But for the rest of us, seasonal change, work conflict, and emotional ruts can adversely affect our workout motivation.

A simple fix for many people is just changing your routine. If you normally ride at night and darkness is a big part of your workout, it's time to wake up early and switch things up.  

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If you're tired of the monotony of swimming laps in the pool, substitute it a new class or personal training session to keep you challenged and interested. Try out a cross-fit class, Soul Cycle session or pilates reformer private training for a new challenge. 

If working out is truly your passion and you find yourself merely in a 'rut,' a fresh class with new faces may be all you need to refocus and re-inspire.

For others, changing the routine might not be enough. And unfortunately, workout burnout comes with  a ton of negative side effects. Lack of motivation to 'move' inevitably leads to poor choices in diet, disruption in normal sleep patterns, an increase in moodiness and/or agitation, and an overall dissatisfaction with one's self. 

More: 3 Tips to Avoid Triathlon Training Burnout

When the workouts start to 'go' so does healthy eating, sleep prioritization, and a focus on mind/body wellness. Fortunately, getting back on track may be easier than you imagine.

Here are three simple suggestions to keep your workouts on track.

Phone a Friend

Seek the company of someone you might normally not workout with. Sometimes you just need to revisit an old connection to help you feel inspired. 

Create a New Fitness Goal

Maybe you already have all your races scheduled for the year. Why not create a new fitness goal? Try out a Tough Mudder. Train for a PR on a local 5K. Be open to an athletic activity that might be foreign to you, but still provides an opportunity for training and growth. Swimming's your weakest sport? Hire a swim coach and train to make that activity a higher priority.

Purchase New Gear 

I know it sounds cheesy, but it totally works. Sometimes a workout rut can be easily conquered with some fancy, new clothes and/or equipment. A fresh pair of running shoes and a new Garmin Forerunner will definitely send you out the door and into the wilderness wanting to explore what both of those items can do.