Question: I'm 48 and in the past rode 12-15 hours per week but was usually overtrained. This season I'm trying to recover better by doing 10-hour weeks including weekend rides of about 100 miles and building up only for major events. I'm planning to ride one of Australia's toughest "classics," Grafton-Inverell. It's 140 miles, starting at sea level and ascending to about 4,000 … [Read more...] about Do Training Rides Need to Be As Long as Events?
Overtraining
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?
Is Retirement Dangerous to My Cycling?
Question: Because of my work schedule, I have ridden sporadically for the last 20 years, logging about 1,500 miles annually and doing one or two centuries just for fun. Last winter I took early retirement and decided to devote full time to cycling. I rode 5,000 miles in 8 months and improved fast. But now I’m tired and can’t stand the thought of hammering with the young … [Read more...] about Is Retirement Dangerous to My Cycling?
Why Do Long Climbs Hurt My Back?
Question: I'm training for RAMROD, a one-day event in Washington state. It covers 155 miles with three major climbs totaling 10,000 feet of vertical gain. My weekend training ride includes a tough climb of 6,000 feet that I've done all-out for three weeks. Now the nerves in my lower back are inflamed and I'm in pain even on the flats. I've had an expert bike fit, so bad … [Read more...] about Why Do Long Climbs Hurt My Back?
How Can I Cure Chronic Achy Legs?
Question: I'm an avid 47-year-old cyclist who rides 90-120 miles per week and wants to improve. My performance has stagnated. My legs ache and feel weak. Is this just age, or is it overtraining or poor nutrition? -- Craig K. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: It sounds like you've overdone your training, Craig, either in terms of intensity or insufficient time for recovery. Another … [Read more...] about How Can I Cure Chronic Achy Legs?