Some days, it’s harder to get out the door — the mornings are cooler, the sun comes up later, and motivation feels patchy (like your goals are sitting on the other side of winter). I hear you — I think and feel it too. That’s why I keep reminding myself: this season, train for fun.
As the racing calendar shifts and training goals change pace, it’s easy to fall into the trap of just “getting through.” But what if you didn’t need to push harder, but rather change your focus?
This edition of Ride, Tri, and Thrive is your reminder that progress doesn’t have to feel serious. It can feel fun. Light. Even playful.
And if you’re looking for more ways to stay consistent through the cold months, check out my last article:
👉 Don’t Hibernate—Thrive Through Winter.
A Fun Reminder on the Bike (and Beyond)
Recently, I led a couple of rides that weren’t about structure or numbers — they were about exploration. One day we rode some of Canberra’s ‘hidden’ tracks; on another, we followed the gravel road between Sutton and the Old Federal Highway (yes, it can be ridden on a road bike). There was no pressure, no focus on power numbers — just fresh air, discovering new places, and hanging out with friends.
What surprised me most were the grins. Huge, genuine smiles on every face. It reminded me of something I’d lost touch with: how good it feels to exercise just for fun. Riding to feel alive, to see the land, to breathe in the stillness (or in this case, the fog) — not just to get fitter or faster.
And it’s not just cycling. A relaxed trail run, a no-pressure swim, or a spontaneous sunrise jog can all create that same feeling — movement without expectation. Sometimes the best sessions are the ones that feel like play.
Just this week, someone casually mentioned an idea for an adventure, no plan, just a loose route and some curiosity—and I couldn’t put my hand up fast enough. It reminded me that when movement feels like an invitation rather than a task, everything shifts.
Why “This Season, Train for Fun” Really Works
It turns out, fun isn’t just a bonus — it’s also a science-backed strategy for staying consistent.
One study highlighted the importance of enjoyment to long-term adherence and psychological benefit in physical activity — people who enjoy what they’re doing are more likely to keep doing it [Wankel, 1993].
A 2012 review on self-determination theory found that intrinsic motivation — doing something because it’s satisfying and fun — is a major factor in lasting participation and performance [Teixeira et al., 2012].
The 2015 review showed that how you feel during a workout can predict whether you’ll want to do it again. Positive emotional experiences, such as fun, pride, or calm, significantly increase the likelihood of maintaining exercise habits over time [Rhodes & Kates, 2015].
So, if you’ve been wondering whether a social spin or tech-free trail run “counts” — it absolutely does.
Build Your Own “This Season, Train for Fun” Sessions
Here are five fun-focused session ideas to try in the cooler season:
🌅 1. The Sunrise Reset
Choose a hill, climb up early, and watch the sunrise. Soak in the view and the slight warmth of the sun. No intervals. Just perspective.
🗺️ 2. The No-Data Adventure
Switch off your tech and ride, run, or walk without tracking. Let curiosity guide you. You’ll be surprised what you notice when numbers aren’t involved.
🌲 3. Flow State Session
Hit your favourite trails or quiet paths and tune into the sensation of movement — the lean of a corner, the crunch of gravel, the feel of breath.
☕ 4. The Social Spin, Run or Swim
Plan a route with a friend, make the café stop the destination, and make connection your training goal.
🌍 5. Explore Somewhere New
Pick a path, trail, or backroad you’ve never done before. Whether it’s a hidden gravel track or a forest loop, a new pool, or a path, the novelty can spark excitement and bring a real sense of play.
What Does Fun Look Like for You?
I’d love to hear from you — what’s one fun session you’ve had recently? Or what would you like to feel more of this season?
Hit reply or message me at coachhulskamp.com.au. Your ideas may even inspire the next edition of Ride, Tri, and Thrive.
And if you’re ready to rediscover the spark in your training, I currently have a few 1:1 coaching spots open. We’ll build a plan that supports your goals — and your life — as the seasons shift.
Final Thought
Fun isn’t the opposite of discipline — it’s often the very thing that keeps you going. As the weather cools, don’t just push through. Ride with presence. Move with intention. And most of all, And most of all — this season, train for fun.
👉 Ready to rediscover what you love about movement? Let’s chat.
References
Rhodes, R. E., & Kates, A. (2015). Can the affective response to exercise predict future motives and physical activity behavior? A systematic review of published evidence. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 49(5), 715–731.
🔗 Read it here
Wankel, L. M. (1993). The importance of enjoyment to adherence and psychological benefits from physical activity. International Journal of Sport Psychology, 24(2), 151–169.
🔗 Read it here
Teixeira, P. J., Carraça, E. V., Markland, D., Silva, M. N., & Ryan, R. M. (2012). Exercise, physical activity, and self-determination theory: a systematic review. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 9, 78.
🔗 Read it here