from off-season vibes to prime season energy
A gentle nudge (okay… maybe a firmer one)
Let’s be honest: the post-season has been a vibe.
If you’ve been fueling long rides with candy corn, transitioning seamlessly into Christmas cookies, and topping it off with a post-ride eggnog… no judgment. Zero shame. You earned that freedom.
But here’s the thing — the calendar is turning, and so is the tone of training.
That casual, “TrainingPeaks is optional” energy?
It’s starting to expire.
Read more …
🎄 holiday traditions, nyx-style
Coach Julie:
The Calm-Before Run
One of my favorite traditions happens late—really late—on Christmas Eve. A quiet night run through the neighborhood, holiday lights still glowing, streets finally still. It’s not about pace or metrics. It’s about clearing the noise, breathing deep, and arriving at Christmas morning calm instead of fried.
Christmas Day: Move the Energy
Christmas morning is joyful chaos. By mid-day, we pile into the car and head to Dog Beach—frisbee, sand, salty air, and a whole lot of laughter. No structure, no agenda. Just movement, sunshine, and burning off the excitement in the best way possible.
Finish the Year Strong (and Long)
December 31st is sacred. A big-ass 5K or 10K swim to close out the year—often with fins, always with intention. It’s not about time. It’s about finishing the year the same way we train: steady, committed, and a little gritty. And then a big stack of pancakes.
Coach Alison:
December Chaos
While it may not be my favorite tradition, I have acquiesced to the fact that December is unlike any other month. It’s the month where nearly every week I miss a workout, sometimes two. It’s the month where I enjoy the cookies and indulge in big, messy meals. It’s the month where I get little done but spend loads of time with kids and my extended family. It’s chaos, but I wouldn’t give it up for anything.
Mid-Day Quiet Time
I love sneaking away for a run on Christmas Day, after all the presents are open and breakfast is eaten and the house is quiet. It’s (usually) crisp and cool outside, and it’s my one hour of time to myself in between the hours of gifts in the morning and hours of eating in the afternoon.
Stupid Big Swim
My favorite way to round out the year is with a stupid big swim on New Year’s Eve. I’ll tackle a 100×100 in a big year, 50×100 otherwise. It’s amazing how an open mind and a positive attitude – and some fins and paddles – can make the time fly. And I love having that behind me when I head out to ring in the new year.