How to train consistently when life is so hectic?

Following a formal training plan, even amid an uncluttered existence, can be both physically and mentally demanding. Factor in a busy and perpetually evolving work and family life and it can become positively overwhelming – almost to the point of ‘let’s forget all this nonsense and take up television and crisps instead!’

- Stephen Shrubsall

But there are mechanisms we can employ to meld our lifestyles with our training programmes to get fit without risking burn-out.

As a team coach, I’m well placed to help with this question. Our athletes generally fall into the category of balancing high-stress jobs, busy family lives and competitive training programmes. Here’s how we help steer our clients from base to race, while making the seemingly impossible become seamlessly achievable.

Plan, plan, plan

Our typical athlete is a time-crunched woman training upwards of 10 hours a week while also raising children. Quite a few of them are in high-stress, highpowered jobs as well, so they’re not just stretched when it comes to their training. Balancing their commitments to family, work, life and leisure is no mean feat.

So the first thing we do is plan, plan, plan and plan some more. We always check in with our athletes at the end of the week to help them plan for next week. First, be realistic about how many hours you have available to train. What are your priorities? How will you fit everything together, bearing in mind unforeseeable delays and extra demands on your time? Plan, plan, plan.

Break it down