The Great Switch-Around

‘I am woman – hear me roar!’ – HELEN REDDY

When it rains, it pours and dampens spirits and douses training plans. Much of outdoor-based, physical training is subject to the whims and fancies of Mother Nature. Monsoon seasons seem to have covertly merged and defied seasonal expectations.

Under such fickle meteorological conditions, we can apply the Switch-around Principle. Make the switch-around. Modify. Make do. Make up. You need not compromise too much on your plans when you have an A-race or qualifier looming.

Using SCAMMPERR as a creative problem-solving tool, you can Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Magnify, Modify, Put to other uses, Eliminate, Reverse, and Rearrange. Here are some ideas to consider while switching around:

1)    Ride indoors on a trainer, or a stationary-bike at the gym. Do a spin class.

2)    Run on a treadmill, staircase, or in water.

3)    Swim instead. Give your joints a break and work your upper-body.

4)    Do a Circuit Training session. Work opposing muscle groups, i.e. Push/Pull combinations (push-ups/chin-ups, step-ups/abdominal raises).

5)    Do a core stability session (use a Medi-Ball, wobble-board, balance-disc, cables, Body-Blade, and bands).

6)    Train outdoors, however dress appropriately (winter-wear, rain-jackets, trail-shoes, energy gels, safety-lights) and slow down your speed on uneven and slippery surfaces. Avoid overly wet or soft surfaces.

7)    Take a nap. Have a rest day. Come back strong the next day.

Training life can be a b****. So, make that switch.