Training Logs For Record Your Training Information

Training Logs

As an athlete training for a specific event, keeping track of your efforts by using a training log is critical. Knowing what you did, for how long will help you know what works best for you.

Training logs don't have to be complicated. If you are a runner, writing down your weight, how far you ran and how long it took along with what exactly you did is useful information. If you did intervals today, mark down exactly what you did. For instance, say you did 4 x 400m, and 2 x 800m, write down the time each of those intervals took. You might also make comments about how you felt during and after the intervals. As you look back at what you did, you can plan for the future knowing how hard to push yourself.

A weight training log will have similar details. You might skip the time information, but noting how many reps of what exercises you did is important. Bench presses, arm and leg curls, lunges, extensions, dumbbell flyes, tricep extensions - write it all down. Next week when you get back into the gym for your workout, you will have some reference as to just how much weights you need to be pushing around for that ripped body you are looking for.

A triatholon training log will need to be as detailed as possible and should include what you are eating as well, how you feel for each workout, and how well rested you are. Again, this is all for planning purposes, so you can know what works for your body. Did last week's 15 mile run wipe you out - do you need to take it easier for this week's long run, or did you not hydrate properly, or was the temperature just too hot - this type of information is invaluable.

There is even training log software out there that will keep track of your progress for you. Of course, the training software only works if you use it properly and is best for providing trends of your progress. You can easily plot a line chart of your daily running distance, or keep track of the total number of calories you consumed, or see how your weight has changed over time if you are on a low carb diet.

Regardless of what method you use to record your training efforts, a training log will help you reach your goals.