When the marathon season ends, runners are left to make an important decision. Will they take a break with some off season strength training or just continue to run year-round? If you’re also struggling with this dilemma, don’t worry because I’ve got your back.
Read on to find out what factors to consider when deciding this and how the two approaches compare.
What is An Off Season vs Year-Round Running?
An off-season is a time period of 4-8 weeks in which runners do not follow their structured running plan. Instead, you use the break to gather resilience and plan for future races and marathons. Besides this, you also use this period for some off-season low-intensity run training, strength training and mobility to maintain your fitness.
Year-round running, on the other hand, is when you don’t take an off season and continue with your regular training. This is why a year-round running regime is significantly different from one with an off-season running plan.
How Do Some Runners Do Off Season Training but Others Run Year-Round?
There are a lot of factors that come into play when deciding to take an off-season or run year-round. The following are some differences that you need to consider when making the decision:
Seasonal Adaptability
Typically, runners choose to take an off-season during the peak winter period. This is because, without the right gear, the cold reduces the oxygen supply to your muscles, making them tight. So, during this period, runners focus on planning for future marathons and building resilience through strength training.
Year-round runners, however, design their annual running plan according to all four seasons. So, while they don’t take an off-season, they do make some adjustments. This includes investing in necessary gear, e.g., reflective vest, high-grip shoes, warm clothes, etc. They also shorten their runs and routes or trade in the slippery roads for a treadmill.
Physical and Mental Recovery
Running for months can be both physically and mentally exhausting. The stress can get so bad that you may suffer from athletic burnout. An off season lets you recover from this through some rest. The light off-season training lets your physical injuries heal and your mental health re-energize.
In comparison, year-round running allows you to enhance your performance without any gaps. However, you don’t have a designated time for the above-mentioned recovery. That’s why it’s always recommended to regularly keep in touch with a physiotherapist and psychologist. They’ll both help you keep an optimal running plan to maintain your health.
Difference in Goals
People taking an off-season may have different goals. Some runners choose to take a break because they want to spend time building a solid running plan for the future. Others do it to get some rest and recovery while doing light off-season strength training, running and mobility work.
All year-round runners, though, have different motivations. For them, a regular running routine means enhanced performance and consistent fitness. Plus, running through different kinds of conditions throughout the year makes their body and mind more resilient. This makes them less likely to suffer mental health problems or physical injuries.
Race Preferences
About 800 marathons are arranged throughout the year, and runners can choose which ones they want to participate in. If you plan on running multiple marathons scheduled during all four seasons, you’ll need year-round training. Hence, taking an off-season isn’t an option in such cases if you want to give your best performance.
Runners who do decide to take an off-season prefer to only participate in runs during the marathon season. This usually includes spring and fall, making it easier to take a break and just stick to off-season training in the winter. Once the cold dies down, you can start run training again.
FAQs
Are there any negative effects of year-round running?
Yes, some negative effects include burnout and slower recovery from injuries. However, these only occur if your running plan is not regularly adjusted according to your health and weather.
In what cases is taking an off-season a must?
Taking an off-season is a must if you are suffering from a severe injury. You can do some off-season training, but it should be approved by your physiotherapist.
What is off-season training?
Off season training is basically exercise focused on strength development, mobility and function enhancement. It is low-intensity and usually done when you take a break from running for a certain period. Although most runners include these other modalities in their plans.
Conclusion
The better approach between year-round running and taking an off-season primarily depends on your preference. If you feel your body needs time to rest and recover, a break with some off-season training is a must. However, if you want to establish resilience through a regular routine, running all year round is the way to go.
In both cases, it’s always a smart idea to be mentored by a professional. You can always contact me at Coffey Crew Coaching to design your personalized running plan. I have a wide range of offerings for newcomers as well as dedicated athletes. With my help, you can finally break your barriers and achieve your personal best.
Happy Training!
Carla
Comments