How to Choose Gear Upgrades + Confidence Boost | Consummate Athlete Newsletter
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THE CONSUMMATE ATHLETE NEWSLETTER...
Live a healthy, adventurous life
Hellooooooo!
This week, we've been talking a lot about the idea of a Mid-season Reset. (Friday's bonus podcast episode covers it if you prefer listening to reading!) Basically, with no racing happening, a lot of us have just been go-go-going all summer, without a real break like we'd have post-A-race. So, consider this your reminder/mandate to take a few days away from your primary sport to explore something new, whether it's hiking, walking, yoga, camping, or just getting some work done around the house. Fall is going to be here soon, and while we understand the urge to get as much training time outside as possible, don't forget to actually get out and just relax in nature!
One favor: If you've recently checked out ConsummateAthlete.com, we'd love to hear from you if there's anything you're finding hard to navigate or just seems weird. We'd also love to hear from you if there's any content you're dying to see in coming months!
OK, onto what we've been into these last two weeks...
Stay safe,
Molly + Peter
HOW TO UPGRADE YOUR GEAR
When we went on our recent backpacking trip, we made a few gear upgrades. You may not be interested in backpacking or camping, but if you're into cycling or running or hiking gear, this article is still worth reading simply because we talk about how we pick new gear, decide what's worth upgrading, choose our price points, et cetera. In fact, if you're not thinking about camping, this article is even more relevant for you since you can view it as a case study in gear selection rather than a fun shopping list to peruse! Read it: Backpacking Gear: Our Best Camping Upgrades in the Last Year
CONFIDENT.
We had pro MTBer Haley Smith on the podcast last week and we loved everything she talked about on the mental side of sport. She's had a lot of ups and downs over the years, and her most tangible piece of advice is one that everyone should start doing ASAP: Keeping a confidence journal. (Molly has started doing this by simply adding one line each day after doing her usual super-quick gratitude journal, listing something that she feels confident about from the day before. It's amazing how that sets you up for a better day!) Read the whole article here: Keep a Confidence Journal — Haley Smith’s Advice on Journalling for Mental Health + Athletic Success. (And listen to the Podcast: Mountain Bike Racing & Confidence – Haley Smith)
CATCH UP ON THE CONSUMMATE ATHLETE
Get caught up on the content:
Podcast: Bikepacking with Joe Cruz
Podcast: Equity and Cycling with Cascade Bicycle Club’s Tamara Schmautz
Keep a Confidence Journal — Haley Smith’s Advice on Journalling for Mental Health + Athletic Success
Backpacking Gear: Our Best Camping Upgrades in the Last Year
Doing a Hard or Long Training Workout? Dress for Your Goal Race
Consummate Athlete Morning Yoga — Full 30-Minute Video Session!
SHRED GIRLS UNITE
ICYMI: Molly's latest book, “Shred Girls: Ali’s Rocky Ride” is officially out in the world! If you have a Shred Girl in your life, do us a favor and spread the word.
ABOUT THE CONSUMMATE ATHLETE
At the Consummate Athlete, the goal is simple: help people lead their best active, adventurous lives through coaching, videos, podcasts, articles, and events.
