QUESTION: It appears that the strongest cyclists on our club rides are those who do the most miles before the official start. Some guys show up after already riding 20 or 30 miles. Do I worry too much about resting so I get to the ride fresh? -- Dino A. ROAD BIKE RIDER REPLIES: That's interesting. I don't think the rider who does more miles that day (in total) wins the last … [Read more...] about Do More Miles Produce More Strength?
Coaching
Is My Cycling Fitness Doomed By My Age and Work Schedule?
QUESTION: I need your advice on my training schedule. I work 4 consecutive days of 13 hours each, then have 4 days off when I have unlimited time to ride. I usually do 2-4 hours, but especially on the first day I feel sluggish. I just turned 50, and my fitness and endurance seem to be on the decline. How can I turn things around, given my weird work schedule? -- Rick … [Read more...] about Is My Cycling Fitness Doomed By My Age and Work Schedule?
Why Didn’t My Hard Winter Training Pay Off?
QUESTION: I invested in a power meter last fall and worked hard on the indoor trainer all winter. I did tough workouts three days a week with lots of intervals. On the weekend I cross-county skied for hours and even entered a few races. I figured I’d be flying in March, but instead I’m lagging off the back of group rides and the power I average for 20 minutes has actually … [Read more...] about Why Didn’t My Hard Winter Training Pay Off?
How Can I Get in Shape Fast for an Upcoming Cycling Event?
QUESTION: I confess – I didn't ride very much during the winter and early spring. But I want to get in shape for a metric century coming up this summer. Is there any hope? – Calvin R. RBR REPLIES: Don't panic, Calvin. You and everyone who had a less-than-productive off-season can gain sufficient fitness for an event. If you want to do a 62-mile (100-km) ride then, let's … [Read more...] about How Can I Get in Shape Fast for an Upcoming Cycling Event?
How Can I Go Faster at the End of a Ride?
QUESTION: I got my first road bike three years ago and fell in with a group of racers at work. We've been doing fast 30-mile lunchtime rides with a good deal of climbing. I'm improving quickly, but I still get dropped near the finish. My friends say, "The only way to ride at 30 mph is to ride at 30 mph." How do I get to the next level? -- Jeff D. RBR REPLIES: Your rides are … [Read more...] about How Can I Go Faster at the End of a Ride?