Question: I'm 57 and each year find it more difficult to recover. I used to do three or four hard workouts in a row, but now it takes me at least 48 hours to feel lively again. Stage races or week-long tours are tough. It's not just my legs -- my whole body seems to be affected because I lack energy for daily tasks for a frighteningly long time after I ride hard. I know … [Read more...] about At Age 57, How Can I Combat Poor Recovery?
Cycling Past 50
Why Weight Training Is Vital for Aging Cyclists
By Coach Fred Matheny How do you increase the amount of power you have available, especially as you age? Of course, training is the key to increasing power. Many dedicated cyclists use power meters to accurately record their wattage output during interval training. Then they use sophisticated software to help them analyze the results and plan subsequent workouts. … [Read more...] about Why Weight Training Is Vital for Aging Cyclists
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?
How Should Older Riders Train?
By Coach Fred Matheny Question: I've been racing for four decades, averaging about 700 hours of training each year. But now I'm 59 and sometimes feel the motivation is just not there. I heard that a 67-year-old finished El Tour de Tucson (111 miles) in 4:51. He had significantly reduced his on-bike training to 4 days per week and lifts weights the other 3 days. Do you … [Read more...] about How Should Older Riders Train?
Can I Train Effectively Despite 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 Can I Train Effectively Despite My Age and Work Schedule?