As the winter doldrums set in, it is a good time of year to examine the reasons why you train and compete. These, of course, will be different for each individual. It is important to define these motivators and keep them close to you throughout the season. You may not have any races for some time, and it may become tough to stay focused on your training. But those who are truely committed will be training dilligently.

Remember, the competition may be resting, eating too much, and training haphazardly and sporadically. A lot of athletes' successes for the coming season will be determined right now. Try to enjoy the reduced intensity of base training, but stay consistant! Read, listen to music, or watch TV as your spin on your trainer. Focus on hitting the weights. Take a class or train in a group. As your season progresses and you are grinding out the intervals you will look back fondly on this time.