QUESTION: I'll have a great week with solid rides and even new personal bests, but the next week, due to weather, family, work or lack of motivation, I just go through the motions. What's the key to training more consistently? -- Randy W. RBR REPLIES: Here's our belief: The recreational roadie who juggles career, family, and other responsibilities with "serious" cycling has … [Read more...] about How Can I Train More Consistently?
Coaching
How Quiet Should My Upper Body Be?
Question: When I ride outdoors, I concentrate on keeping a quiet and relaxed upper body. I thought I was successful until I started riding on my indoor trainer where I can see my shadow on the wall. I noticed that my upper body moves about an inch or so from side-to-side as I pedal. Is this a form problem, or an artifact of having the bike locked in the trainer? -- Jim B. … [Read more...] about How Quiet Should My Upper Body Be?
Cycling Aches and Pains II: Upper Back, Shoulder, Neck Pain / Discomfort
By Coach John Hughes In 1986 Pete Penseyres set the solo transcontinental speed record of 3,107 miles (5,000 km) in 8 days, 9 hours and 47 minutes, which included all time on and off the bike! He averaged 15.40 mph (24.8 km/h). That record stood for 27 years. Christoph Strasser finally broke it in 2013, averaging 15.58 mph (25.74 km/h). Perhaps even more amazing than the … [Read more...] about Cycling Aches and Pains II: Upper Back, Shoulder, Neck Pain / Discomfort
Is Age a Factor in a High-Altitude Event?
Question: I am training for a ride at high elevation in August, with 4,500 feet of climbing over 50 miles. I'm 77. Is my age a factor in doing something like this? I have always cycled but lately have not been at my best. – Joe C. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Joe, that sounds like a great ride. I hope you enjoy it! Your performance at altitude will depend on several … [Read more...] about Is Age a Factor in a High-Altitude Event?
Will Cycling Up Hills in Big Gears Hurt My Knees?
Question: A friend tells me that I can improve my climbing power by riding a steep half-mile-long hill in the big ring at a slow cadence. Wouldn't that ruin my knees? – Jerry S. … [Read more...] about Will Cycling Up Hills in Big Gears Hurt My Knees?