We are hitting our stride in 2021 and, so far, the whole of the Purple Patch team is incredibly excited for the development and results of athletes.  A massive congratulations to those who have already secured great personal success, and equal support to a couple who had tough races but shared and learnt from the initial experiences.  My predictions of ‘opportunity for success’ are proving correct so far, but I urge us all to set the perfect mindset around training progression as the coming months approach.

As the training load heats up, and we head out for a great accumulation of mileage on the bike and run, it is so easy for athletes to fall into old habits.  Too many athletes begin chasing weekly hours, forgetting the positive habits, chasing performance by going too hard in the easy days.

Remember the Purple Patch approach -- a huge part of why you joined!

We are seeking effective training.  Hard work that yields positive adaptations.  To get there we need to create consistency within a chaotic and time-starved life, and the path to success includes a prioritization of important performance habits:

• Good sleep
• Fueling after sessions
• Going really easy in the easier sessions
• Great daily hydration
• Integrating 2-3 days of easier rejuvenation every 2-3 weeks, or when real fatigue strikes.

It takes courage and prioritization, but these are the basics.  While we anticipate fatigue, and need it to drive performance, there is no point accumulating weeks and weeks of low quality training in a daze.  Look to drive performance in the tougher sessions, support with good habits, then manage the rest of the schedule relative to the demands on any given week of life.  String these together, and your training will be positive.  We need you to be really fit, but also emotionally and physically vibrant, and positive supporting habits help drive this.  With this in mind, look ahead and get ready for racing, but stay present in the decision making each week to ensure you are being effective.

Let’s go get it!

In other news, this is also perfect timing for our CHALLENGE.  A refocus on a key habit for performance that you are going to prioritize over the course of the coming month.  Recovery, nutrition, mindset, strength?  Choose one from the list and share your commitment, as well as your journey.  The best things come when we share the journey, support one another, and make a commitment that binds us together.  We add to the fun by hitting a Purple Patch wide 5K around July 4.  It should be really fun, no matter the level. 

Get involved and build your performance journey together.  Details are here, and if you're a Squaddie they're also in your Today's Plan calendar on Monday.

Cheers,
Matt