June 2010
Soldiers Five on Training In Winter - Designed to be read in 30 seconds!
This Soldiers’ Five we look at training in winter, always fun......
1. Lighting. No doubt you are aware of this as a major problem, especially if you train in the mornings or night. Meeting and training locations, along with drills/activities will all need to be modified to avoid obvious hazards such as slips/trips.
2. Cold Weather. Warm ups will require to be extended to ensure the body is prepared effectively. And, in a dark environment, the warm-up will need to be confined. Most warm-up components can be modified to be on the spot.
3. Motivation. July and August are the start of running events season. Set them as goals now! Maybe set the simple goal of maintaining fitness during winter. Remember, it is easier to stay in shape/keep off the weight, than it is to get your fitness back/shred the winter coat.
4. Train inside. Many councils hire their halls to martial arts 'clubs'. A council hall can be ideal to keep your 'club' training during the colder months (if you are not already part of an established gym)...just thinking outside the box...
5. Severe weather.....sometimes you just can't train, as it is not safe.
The bottom line: Continue to train hard, modify appropriately, and be prepared for a natural decline in attendance.
