by Stan Purdum I recently rode a new route, which started at the trailhead of a long, paved bicycle path I’ve ridden many times. But the new route didn’t use the path; it was on the nearby crossroad, with the trailhead simply providing a good place to leave my car. From the map, I’d estimated my intended route as being about 22 miles, a shorter distance than I normally … [Read more...] about How a Ride Becomes a “Thing”
1Training & Health
These Are the Non-Fitness Related Elements of Cycling Success
by Arnie Baker, M.D. Although your fitness is your most important aspect of success on a bike, there are some non-fitness aspects of cycling that also make a difference. If you're already fit -- or maybe you're just looking for every possible advantage to help at your current level of fitness -- consider whether or not improvements in any of these categories could help you … [Read more...] about These Are the Non-Fitness Related Elements of Cycling Success
How Cyclists Should Approach Intensity Training for Maximum Benefit
By Coach John Hughes Training by intensity doesn’t mean hammering and painful intervals. Training by intensity simply means riding harder than you are used to riding in order to improve in a specific way, which range from increasing your endurance and cruising speed to having more power to achieving high performance. … [Read more...] about How Cyclists Should Approach Intensity Training for Maximum Benefit
Quick Tip: Use Your “Air Brakes” to Slow Down
Use your "air brakes." We all know that wind makes bicycle riding tough. If you're going 18 mph on a calm day and suddenly a 10-mph headwind cranks up, it takes almost twice the effort to keep your speed. But sometimes wind resistance is useful. It can help you brake without touching the brake levers. … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Use Your “Air Brakes” to Slow Down
Quick Fix: Insufficient Training for a Century Ride
PROBLEM: You've been able to ride just 15 to 20 miles about three times a week, but now you're all fired up to ride a century that's only a month away. SOLUTION: Here's the rule of thumb for long, one-day bicycle rides: You can do your average weekly mileage in one ride if you just want to finish. So, if your weekly average is no more than 60 miles, doing a century will be … [Read more...] about Quick Fix: Insufficient Training for a Century Ride