Question: I usually ride solo in flat terrain but have begun riding with a group in the hills. What is the correct balance of flat and hilly training? — Chris J. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Good question! The proper mix depends on two things. First, decide what your goals are. If you want to do…
Question: How do you keep motivated to ride? When I have a goal, like a century, I do fine. But after the ride, I lose the motivation to continue. I let a day or two slide by, and soon it has stretched into weeks and months. What’s the secret to consistent riding? — Jim R….
Question: I had a great spring and summer on the bike, winning a local race and setting a personal record in a century. But recently my performance has leveled off. I don’t feel like riding, and I’m making excuses to avoid group rides where I might have to go fast. What’s happening? — Samantha B….
Question: I am 41 and have been seriously riding for two years. I did three centuries last year along with several 40- to 60-mile rides and my usual daily 25-miler. The problem is that I can’t boost my average speed past 16-17 mph. I huff and puff to keep up with riders in my club….
Question: I began riding last year and recently met my first professional cyclist in person. He’s a good climber on a division 3 U.S. pro team. I’m astonished at how small he is! He looks skinny, emaciated and weak. But I know he can ride circles around me even though I’m an athletic 6-footer and 190…
