Question: I live where the snow starts flying in October and ends in late June. I cross-county ski to retain my aerobic conditioning, but do you have any suggestions on how to keep my legs in cycling shape too? — Steve K. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The best advice I’ve heard is from three-time Tour…
Question: I took up cycling three years ago and have gotten progressively addicted. Last year I rode almost 15,000 miles including many centuries. I could do it because I lived in Arizona. But I moved to Wisconsin in September and can’t ride outside due to the cold and snow. I’m getting depressed and morose. This…
Question: I race competitively on the road, totaling 300-400 miles per week. I make one week in every four a recovery week when I just roll around for 200 miles without any hard efforts. The problem is that after a week of taking it easy, I don’t feel refreshed. In fact, I feel more sluggish…
Question: I rode about 6,000 miles last year. But because of work, I won’t be riding for five weeks. What will this layoff do to my riding and fitness? How long will I have to train before I get back to my usual fitness level? — David C. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Detraining usually happens quickly…
Question: I have an important duathlon coming up in three weeks. I’m very fit and my recent races have been personal bests or close to them. But I’m worried about what to do between now and the big event so I don’t overtrain but still stay sharp. The cycling portion will be 25 miles. —…
