Question: I've ridden Colorado's Triple Bypass several times and churned up and down the Pyrenees and Alps. But last August in the Raid Pyrenees (28 passes in 10 days) I had to stop due to severe exhaustion – a combination of 112F-degree (44C) heat, dehydration, overtraining and apparently a mild bug picked up on the airplane. What a surprise and disappointment. I want to … [Read more...] about How Can I Avoid Exhaustion on a Hard, Hot Ride?
Coach Fred Matheny
What Should I Eat Before Long Rides?
Question: I don't have a problem with energy on my 90-minute weekday rides. But I bonk badly when going 75-100 miles on weekends. What should I eat for longer distances? -- Pete T. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: It's amazing how many calories we burn on long rides. A century can incinerate more than 4,000. Riders tend to underestimate how much food this represents. With … [Read more...] about What Should I Eat Before Long Rides?
Improving Your Climbing Through Attitude and Desire
(Over the next three issues, we’re going to focus on climbing. We’ll start today with a look at the psychological side of hauling yourself uphill. Then we’ll talk in more detail about how to climb short, steep hills. And, finally, we’ll provide climbing tips for the Clydesdales among us.) You’re riding with a friend who’s killing you on the hills. You know you’re equally fit … [Read more...] about Improving Your Climbing Through Attitude and Desire
E3 Form Saddle Review
By Coach Fred Matheny HOT! sleek, racy design lightweight flat, relatively wide sitting area lab tests indicate less blood flow restriction some roadies love it NOT! only one comfortable place to sit you may tend to slide forward requires careful setup some roadies definitely don't love … [Read more...] about E3 Form Saddle Review
How Can Hard Riding Keep Me Young?
Question: You've mentioned you're fighting aging by riding hard at times, even during winter. I'm 59 and would like to know more about your program so I can stave off the Grim Reaper. -- Melvin C. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: No training program will keep Mr. Reaper away if he has your number. But as long as you're still mobile on something other than a pine box, make every … [Read more...] about How Can Hard Riding Keep Me Young?