Training Slumps Happen: Here’s How to Push Through
You start a season feeling motivated and strong. Then one week, the spark fades. Training feels harder. Energy dips. You're not alone — slumps happen to every athlete.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned IRONMAN, training slumps are part of the process. What matters is how you respond when you hit that wall.
Why Training Slumps Happen
There are many reasons slumps show up:
- Accumulated fatigue from training and life
- Lack of variety or overreliance on rigid routines
- Emotional stress, work pressure, or poor sleep
- Missing your 'why' or forgetting your long-term goals
Signs You’re in a Slump
- You dread workouts that used to excite you
- Recovery takes longer or feels incomplete
- You question your ability or progress
- You feel emotionally flat, irritable, or disconnected
How to Get Out of a Slump
✅ Change things up: Swap a solo run for a group one. Try a new swim location. Reintroduce fun.
✅ Refocus on recovery: Fatigue and slumps often go hand in hand. Double down on rest, protein, and hydration.
✅ Reconnect with your goals: Write down why you started training and what your next milestone is.
✅ Lower the barrier: Instead of skipping a session, go easy. A short, low-pressure session keeps momentum alive.
When to Reevaluate Your Plan
If a slump lasts more than 2–3 weeks, or if signs of burnout persist, it might be time to reassess:
- Are your training loads realistic with your current life demands?
- Is there a need to adjust intensity or add more rest days?
- Are you mentally overtrained—even if physically you're fine?
Sometimes, the solution is a short training break to come back refreshed.
Final Thoughts
Slumps don’t mean you’ve failed — they mean you’re human. I have gone through them myself with the longest period of over fatigue taking four months to recover from. I understand exactly what you are going through.
Consistency doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from riding the highs and working through the lows.
Show up, adjust, and keep going. That’s where real progress is made.
Need Support Getting Back on Track?
🎯 Start a free TriDot trial or 💬 Book a free coaching call or email info@bethefear.com.au — and let’s reset your plan together.
— Coach Bec
Be The Fear - Personalised Endurance Training