Staying focused: How Pro Athletes Are Adapting
These are challenging times for professional athletes and leisure runners alike. Routines have been disrupted, competitions are cancelled and we are all working to find a new normal for awhile. But as athletes and humans we are strong, and we are used to challenges. We adapt. Two of the Team On pros share how they are adapting and staying positive.
Rachel Cliff, Marathoner
«I haven’t met a single person whose life and immediate goals haven’t been impacted by the Coronavirus. Initially, I didn’t appreciate the severity of the situation but as the virus spread I quickly came to understand how critical these cancellations are for protecting public safety.
I took about two weeks to sit back and hit the reset button which I think was important. While I’m sad to not be able to race, especially in such a big year, I am trying to regain a sense of normalcy and keep focused on my own goals. I had to adapt.
I simply try to do core exercises at home to compensate for missing running training.
I’m trying to find joy in my training and enjoy the art of pushing my body in workouts, even if it’s not immediately clear what my next goal is. The great thing about running as a sport is how adaptable and independent it is. I’m constantly reminding myself how important social distancing is to protecting the health of others and the capacity of our medical system.
I’m taking pride in doing my part and having faith that a race opportunity will eventually provide itself.»
Chris Thompson, Distance Runner
«Focusing purely on the training and racing aspect, yes, training for races that have already been postponed or are in danger of postponement is a frustration. That initial emotional feeling of disappointment and wasted training is a natural response.
However, this gives us a good opportunity to remind ourselves of why we run: keeping fit and healthy.
Yes, we like to have progress goals, aims and objectives. But the underlying foundation is for a healthy lifestyle and good habits. Never has this been more important. By keeping those skills going and continuing to practise good habits, you are leading by example.
Positivity is within us all. Accessing our own positive mindset will often come by reducing a lot of the 'noise' that surrounds us.
Controlling the controllable' is a good way to do this and not feel overwhelmed by outside influences.»
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Runners workouts for the living room
That all runners can keep fit and focused at home, On and the fitness experts at the Urban Gym Balboa in Zurich have created home workouts especially for runners.