Training Transition Period

[Ed Slovenkay]

After 2012 IMLOU on August 26th, which was also my second IM in 2012, I found myself very much in need of a break from structured training. I've read and heard that you need to take 2-4 weeks "off" of structured work. I saw a FB post on this today and thought it might be a good topic for the forum.

What do you to during your transition period?

For 4 weeks I did yoga, P90X, walked a lot (because I couldn't run), and biked on the MTB when I felt like it. I have always been worried in the past that taking this transition period would result in the complete loss of fitness I worked so hard for over the last year.

I can say with certainty that this is not the case. My shoulders have healed up and swim form is better than ever. I enjoy running again and really look forward to some computrainer sufferfests once the snow flies.

FWIW, here's what Joe Friel has to say on the matter;
www.trainingbible.com/joesblog/2009/10/training-and-transition-period.html

Thoughts??

[Brandon]

I typically do whatever I feel like, which might be nothing, might be an easy bike ride or something else. Hiking, trail running, rock climbing are a few things that I typically look forward to during down time.

[robreddy]

i agree - some period of time off with little to no structured work outs are great - then an easy long build period before you get into training which in its self can also be a 'break period' also works well for me

r