Get Ready for Race Season with a Training Camp

by Marilyn McDonald

You've made it through the winter, or at least the worst of it. You can almost see spring and the idea of getting out on the road is a motivating one. Some early season races are approaching -- your race season may even be starting in the next few months.

What's one of the best things you can do to get yourself ready? A training camp!

As long as I can remember doing this sport I have been going to training camps. Plain and simple, camps are good! Everybody gets something different from them, but everybody gets something. I find that camps are one of the most important pieces in developing an athlete.

I have always approached camps with the attitude to learn as much as possible. Learn about myself, my limitations and to really take the opportunity to push myself in some way.

I was the very first female to attend Epic Camp. I think Gordo thought Scott was nuts when he invited me. And I can honestly say I have never been as tired again in my life. But I did win my first ironman after attending that camp.

Camps are an opportunity to:

• Be exposed to new things, so come with an open mind to learn.
• Meet new people who share your interests. I've made some of my closest friends from camps.
• See a new place.
• Test and push yourself in an environment where you don't have to worry about much other than training.
• Create memories and expose character you never knew you had.

And here's some advice for going into a camp:

• Always come ready to push your limits.
• Always come armed with a good sense of humor.
• Always come humble and ready to learn.
• Always have the ability to look after yourself.

I promise that you'll walk away with new friends, new perspectives and a new motivation towards your season.

Go discover yourself.

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