Finding Balance

It's a never-ending battle for those of us who live endurance sports lifestyles: finding and maintaining a balance between work, school, family time, social activities and training is a true challenge.

Most of us are happier and function better in every way when we can train regularly. It's great for your physical AND mental health - and that carries over into all the other areas of our lives.

We always find it inspiring to see how other athletes aim for balance, and interesting to learn new tricks of time and energy management.

Here are some tips we've learned for finding balance:

1. Sweat Every Day 

Do something every day to get your heart rate up and your body moving. Sitting at a desk or behind the wheel all day is known to have negative health effects. By getting in even a short workout you can increase your energy and stave off health issues.

2. Work Out In The Morning 

Getting your workout done early gives you a boost of energy for the day and helps you avoid the afternoon lull of energy that makes working out later in the day more difficult.

3. Mix It Up!

It's easy to get bored by focusing only on one thing, whether it's riding endless miles, or the same 4-hour hiking trail. Mix in other activities that are both healthy and fun. Try weight-lifting and running for weight-bearing activities: your bones will thank you for it. Or find activities that are so fun you lose track of time instead of watching the clock: skiing, dancing, pickleball, roller skating, what have you! Just remember to check with your doctor or physical therapist to prevent injuries.

4. Plan Your Workouts, Meals and Gear Ahead of Time

By proactively preparing for the next day you can eliminate time intensive tasks that can take away from your workout time - or derail yesterday's good intentions. For those of us who are practically brain dead when we wake up, lay out your gear and mix your bottles the night before. Then in the morning, you can focus on rolling out of bed, getting some coffee and getting out the door - which is half the battle!

5. Combine Your Social Life with Your Active Life 

Because who doesn’t like a beer or coffee with friends after a great workout? By working out with a friend or with a group you are more likely to show up to the workout and can add some social life to your training schedule. A win win!

Good riding partners make for good rides. Sweet singletrack and aspens help, too!

Check out more training and nutrition tips here!