How to Plan an Annual Training Calendar

Getting into shape and staying that way requires planning. A training program can motivate you, and keep you on track. Having your program written down somewhere conspicuous leaves you less room for slacking.The format of an annual training calendar ranges from a one-page sheet stuck to the fridge with a magnet to computer software with multiple sections. Whether you choose to plot your training on a free calendar from the local service station or a sophisticated computer program, the principles of planning an effective annual training calendar remain the same.

Things You'll Need

• One-page view of the year
• Colored markers
• Annual planning computer software

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Instructions

Annual Training Calendar

• 1

  Chose your sctivity

  Determine what sorts of training you want to do. People with specific focuses, such as weight-lifting or swimming, for example, will develop a different schedule from those who play hockey twice a week. Try and choose something you enjoy.

• 2

  Be clear about why you are training.

  Decide why you are training. If it is to enter a particular competition, play at the state finals or run a marathon you will schedule your lead-up and recovery times accordingly.

• 3

  Water sports are a popular summer activity.

  Consider the seasons. Athletes who enjoy a variety of sports or activities will do whatever is seasonal. Ski bunnies may have to diversity and swim during the summer to keep fit for the snow season.

• 4

  Put reminders in your moble.

  Remind yourself to stick to your training calendar. Jot it in your diary, enter it on your mobile or put stickies on your breakfast cereal.

• 5

  Christmas and training may not mix.

  Keep a "big picture" overview of times that are best for training. The lead up to Christmas, for example, is a busy time and training tends to be sidetracked.