Question: I am a new rider primarily interested in fitness. I got my bike in June and began to ride seriously in July, four days a week, about 30 minutes per ride. I average around 90% of max heart rate. I'm totally spent when I get back home. Should I continue to ride this hard to get the most from my training time? -- Bill P. … [Read more...] about Should I Ride Hard All the Time?
Beginner Cyclist
How Can I Train Despite Limited Time?
Question: I'm a doctor, often working 12-hour days and on call some weekends. I rode some centuries last season but was undertrained. How can I get the most benefit out of training a maximum of 10 hours per week? -- Eric B. … [Read more...] about How Can I Train Despite Limited Time?
Can I Train on the Road for an Off-Road Race?
Question: How can I use my new road bike to train for a 40-mile mountain bike race in early September? My plan is to ride 30 miles at least once a week in July and increase to 40 miles in August. Does that sound reasonable? -- Jim G. … [Read more...] about Can I Train on the Road for an Off-Road Race?
Can I Train Well Even With a Job and Family?
Question: Although I've been riding competitively for years, I have trouble balancing my training with my wife's schedule (she also rides), the demands of our 4-year-old son, and my job. My typical training week includes one long weekend ride, a recovery ride and two short tempo or interval sessions. That's all I can manage. And our son brings home colds, which are … [Read more...] about Can I Train Well Even With a Job and Family?
What Climbing Cadence is Best for Knees?
QUESTION: I've heard that it's better for knees if you spin a lower gear on climbs rather than mash a big gear. Why is it harder on the knees to pedal at a slower rpm? What about pedaling slowly when out of the saddle? -- Jim M. RBR REPLIES: Good questions! The important element here isn't the total time taken to climb the hill, but rather the total load on the knees during … [Read more...] about What Climbing Cadence is Best for Knees?