Spring Cleaning for Your 2025 Race Season: Time to Dust Off and Gear Up

Spring is here, which means race season is just around the corner. For some, that’s thrilling news. For others, well… it’s a reminder that some gear (and motivation) might be gathering a little dust.

Now’s the time to shake off the cobwebs — literally and figuratively — and prep for an epic season ahead. Let’s dive into three key areas to “dust off,” so you’re race-ready in 2025!

1. Equipment Check: Freshen Up Your Gear
   Before you start logging serious training miles, make sure your equipment is tuned, lubed, and race-ready.

• Bike Maintenance – Get that bike serviced now. Fresh tires? Clean drivetrain? Saddle feeling good? Dial it in before the season kicks into full gear.
• Running Shoes – Planning to upgrade this season? Get your new pair now and break them in properly. No one wants a surprise blister mid-race.
• Swim Gear – New wetsuit? Check out the latest models. Still rocking last year’s? Grab some repair glue for small tears. And if you’re thinking about trying new goggles, test them in the pool now—not on race day! (Need a discount on a wetsuit? Hit me up!)
• Tri Kit – If you’re getting a new one, order it ASAP to avoid last-minute stress.

2. Training: Time to Turn Up the Heat
   If winter was all about building base fitness, now’s the time to crank up the intensity.

• Short-course racers → Start adding 2-5 minute intervals with equal recovery time.
• Long-course athletes → Focus on 5-15 minute sustained efforts and race-pace tempo rides.
• Race Nutrition → Fine-tune your fueling strategy NOW so you don’t run into surprises later.
• Also, be strategic. Train specifically for your “A” race — even if it’s months away. When I won my National Championship, I prepped for months based on that specific race format and course profile. If possible, stack your season with a few “B” and “C” level races to sharpen your edge before your big goal event. One year, I did 6-7 sprint races before gunning for gold at Nationals. Training hard is great — racing sharp is even better.

3. Mental Game: Get Your Head in the Race
   Your mind is just as important as your body. Start dialing in your mental strategy now.

• Plan ahead – Map out your season.
• Prioritize sleep & nutrition – Fuel and recover like a pro.
• Manage stress – Keep life balanced to stay fresh and avoid burnout.
• Pace yourself mentally – Don’t get too race-hyped too soon. The season is long.

Spring signals a fresh start, and with warm weather rolling in, excitement is building. Get your gear in check, step up your training, and lock in your mental game. Do this now, and when race day arrives, you’ll be ready to crush it.

See you at the start line!