Want to Crush Next Season? Start Training in October or November

Want to Crush Next Season? Start Training in October or November

Let’s be real: we all love to tell ourselves that “training starts January 1st.” It feels clean, symbolic, like turning the page to a brand-new you.

But if you're aiming to hit some big race goals next season—waiting until January is already putting you behind.

The truth? October and November are where champions are made. This is when the serious athletes quietly lay the foundation for the fitness, speed, and resilience they’ll need when it really counts.

Here’s why.

1. The Off-Season Isn’t Off—It’s “Pre-Season”

Yes, fall is technically the off-season. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to park your bike or stash your running shoes.

Instead, think of October and November as pre-season—a golden window to build aerobic fitness, correct weaknesses, and start creating structure without the pressure of an immediate race.

This time is perfect for:

  • Rebuilding your base fitness

  • Working on mobility, strength, and stability

  • Dialing in your schedule and recovery rhythm

  • Identifying and addressing any recurring injuries

And with fewer events and distractions, it’s easier to focus on quality over quantity.

2. Structured Coaching = Smart Progress, Not Just More Miles

Here’s the deal: anyone can pile on miles and “hope” they’ll get faster. But smart athletes use structure.

By starting a coaching program in October or November, your coach can:

  • Build a long-term plan tailored to your race calendar

  • Periodize your training properly (base > build > peak > race)

  • Identify limiters and track improvements over time

  • Help you avoid burnout or mid-season overtraining

Instead of winging it, you’re working the plan—and it pays off.

3. More Time = Less Pressure

Starting early gives you something super valuable: breathing room.

When you're not cramming training into a 10-week panic window, you can:

  • Focus on technique and form

  • Recover properly between sessions

  • Adjust based on real-life stuff (work, family, weather, etc.)

  • Slowly ramp up without the stress of an approaching race

It's like giving yourself the gift of time—and that’s priceless when it comes to endurance.

4. Fix the Foundations Now, Not Mid-Season

Let’s be honest—mid-season isn’t the time to be fixing your pedal stroke or tweaking your run cadence.

Those early months are prime time for skill work. Think:

  • Bike handling drills

  • Running form improvements

  • Core strength and flexibility

  • Mental skills and race strategies

All the things that often get skipped when race season heats up? Fall is the perfect chance to knock 'em out.

5. Consistency Wins Over Time

Fitness isn't built in a day—or even a month. It’s the product of consistent effort, week over week, month over month.

Starting in October or November gives you a solid 6–8 months of gradual, intentional progress before your A-race. That’s enough time to:

  • Build a huge aerobic engine

  • Peak at the right moment

  • Avoid overuse injuries from rushing training blocks

  • Arrive at the start line ready, not scrambled

And let’s not forget—when spring rolls around, you'll already have momentum on your side.

FAQs

Q: What if I don’t have a race until next summer—isn’t it too early?
Nope! This is the perfect time to build a long, sustainable base. The earlier you start, the more flexibility your coach has to adapt the plan and help you peak at the right time.

Q: Can I still take time off in the fall/winter?
Absolutely. Fall training doesn’t mean “go hard or go home.” It’s often lower intensity, higher quality, and mixed with strength or cross-training. You can rest and train smart.

Q: What if I’m not “serious” but just want to improve?
You don’t need to be elite to benefit from structure. A coach can help you balance training with life, make workouts more effective, and keep you on track—whether you’re chasing a podium or a personal best.

Let’s Wrap This Up…

Waiting until January to start structured training is like cramming for a final the night before—you might survive, but you won’t thrive.

The athletes who show up strong and confident next season? They’re already quietly doing the work in October and November. They're not crushing intervals yet—they're building the engine, setting the plan, and laying the groundwork for greatness.

So if you’ve got goals next year, don’t wait for New Year’s hype. Start now. Get structured. And give yourself the best shot at showing up in peak form when it matters most.

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