I spent the day today mapping a new route out for training rides on the road. I do a lot of riding on the road, about 2/3 is spent on the road bike. I don't do a lot of training on the MTB bike. Most of the MTB riding is either racing or going for fun rides with friends. The new route I mapped takes me about 120km which should take around the 4 hour mark, maybe a little more. With a family it is hard to get in rides much longer than this. When I do my training camp in late March or early April (weather permitting) I will try to do this ride 5 days a week with one of the days potentially being two times around this circuit. That will certainly build up my endurance, plus it will get me eating during the ride which will be good practice for race day.
During Winter training it is impossible to get in 4 hour rides with the weather. I can handle the cold weather with every part of my body but my feet. No matter what I do I can't keep them warm. Right now I wear Sidi Winter Shoes (one size too big) with wool socks, neoprene socks, and winter booties. I still get cold in below zero weather. Thus training rides don't last much longer than 3 hours (1:40 on the trainer today). This will keep my conditioning decent for the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo (www.epicrides.com) but by no means in winning form. It is just impossible to get that form unless I move to warmer climates!! I can't wait for my training camp! More on that in the next blog (Monday tips!).
Later!
Steve
1 comment:
Trust me man...when we ride in these harsh winter conditions, it gives us a "leg up" on the competition. I remember racing against Tinker in Wisconsin in the 24 Hours of 9 Mile. He was suffering cause it was 50 degrees at night. Just keep that in mind.
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