When it comes to training, do you trust your own judgement or are you someone who follows a program or coach’s advice without questioning it, regardless of how you feel or what’s happening in your life?
Trusting your own judgement in training means being able to make decisions that are best for you. It’s about stepping back and taking charge of your training, rather than just following a plan blindly. This can apply to any session—running, biking, swimming, or strength training.
Being able to make informed decisions, regardless of external influences, sets athletes apart. This mindset is something we strive to develop in all our clients, so that they leave our coaching not only as better athletes, but as more confident decision-makers. They will be able to assess risk and reward effectively, and understand when to push harder or back off.
There are times when following instructions is necessary, but if you’re not aware of your body’s signals or what you’re doing, it can lead to inconsistencies, over-training, and possible injury. Often, athletes overwork themselves because they don’t recognize their true capacity, leading to burnout.
The Best Athletes Know Their Bodies
The world’s top athletes have an exceptional understanding of their bodies. They know when they’re performing at their best and when something feels off. While they rely on a support team, they also learn from their experiences and apply that knowledge at all times. So, how can you start developing the ability to do the same?
Step 1: Educate Yourself
The first step in trusting your own judgement is becoming well-informed. Learn about how your body works and what’s needed to train at the level you aim for.
- What does periodization look like in your training?
- How do you balance training with work and family commitments?
- How are your health markers (e.g., blood work, bone density, nutrition needs)?
- What are your weaknesses, and how can you target them?
Understanding these aspects will give you the tools to make smarter decisions based on how your body feels and responds each day.
Step 2: Reflect on Your Training
Reflection is crucial. It’s important to create moments within your training week where you can look back on your sessions or race performances—whether on your own or with a coach. At SFE, for example, we provide multiple opportunities for our clients to check in, offer feedback, and adjust their plans.
Ask yourself:
- What went well?
- What could have been better?
- Were you more fatigued than usual? Was this due to inadequate refueling?
- What lessons have you learned about your body?
Self-reflection allows you to adjust your intensity and avoid repeating mistakes. A few words of reflection can help you understand your training better and guide your future decisions.
It’s also essential to become comfortable with asking questions. If your coach doesn’t listen or provide solid reasoning for their recommendations, it might be time to look for a better fit.
Step 3: Implement Your Knowledge
Once you have the knowledge, putting it into action is often the hardest part. Changing old habits takes time, and you may find yourself unsure of how to apply what you’ve learned.
At this point, seeking professional help may be necessary. Having someone to bounce ideas off of, whether it’s a coach or other professionals, can make the process smoother and keep you progressing.
Remember, this is a journey. Even the best athletes never stop learning about their bodies. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions and continue improving.
Conclusion
Trusting your judgement in training is a valuable skill that develops over time. It’s about being proactive in understanding your body, reflecting on your progress, and confidently applying what you’ve learned. By doing so, you’ll become a smarter, more resilient athlete, capable of making the best decisions for your training and overall well-being.
