Road ride today…
Blogger Post July 29th, 2008Today was a little endurance, a little Zone 4 hill intervals up Four Mile Canyon. It was good. 
I dusted off my Cannondale SuperSix road bike and we took off for about 3 hours this morning. I still could not stay away from the dirt though!!
High Five!! VERY NICE!
I also am going to start teaching one or two spin classes a week atApex Recreation Center. I figure it’s an AWESOME way to teach people about cycling, the right products to use, nutrition, and training. Heck, I got into cycling from spin classes! I went and sat in a class for an hour today. I love talking to people who are new to the sport. In fact, some of my really good girlfriends just got bikes and I’ve been having a great time answering all their questions!!!
I’m doing a little bit of riding the rest of the week, but mostly working my tail off and resting up for the race this weekend. I’m getting really excited. Next week I’m going to Outdoor Retailer where I will be carrying a large beach towel around to sop up my constant stream of drool. And Bonus!!!! I’ll be working for Ergon there. MY DREAM!!!!
July 29th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Damn, you’re idea of rest is totally different than mine. Granted, you’re a pro, I’m new, but still, when I read of you and Jeff “resting” but still spinning for a few hours a day, I’m almost inspired to spin way more than I am.
I know there are obvious differences in skill and tolerance levels here, but you guys just amaze me with the amount of riding you do. This leads to a bit of a beginner question…how do you know when you need to rest? For example, I rode Saturday and Sunday, my legs are sore, but I feel like I can ride…at the same time I’m planning a big ride for Wednesday…so I’m resting now…should I be riding a little on Monday and Tuesday…or do I need the rest?
Sorry if I sound totally beginner, but my knowledge level is not where my skill level is. I’m fine with ripping up technical terrain for hours on end, but my knowledge surrounding training is about nill right now.
Thanks in advance for any advice!
July 29th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Hey Don!! You’re too sweet!
I am sooo happy that Jeff and I help you want to ride more. 
That is one of the best compliments ever. Today was NOT a rest day for me. My rest days are usually an hour easy spin or less and are spent at a low perceived exertion.
I welcome questions, don’t worry about being a “beginner.” I still am learning new things and ask questions. I think you are being smart by resting on Monday and Tuesday. Your body slowly adapts to more riding, and if you push it too hard to fast, you get overtrained. Bad things happen when you get overtrained, so it’s better to be rested. The amount of intensity you do also plays a factor into when you should rest. Right now, since you are new to cycling and building a base, I’d say ride when your legs feel good. If you feel extra tired, turn around and go home. No shame in that- I do it!
I recommend you check out http://www2.trainingbible.com/joesblog/blog.html. Joe Friel also has a training bible you can buy that is great for a background in training. That is what I used when I first started.
July 30th, 2008 at 6:49 pm
Thanks for the advice and links…very helpful! I feel like I’m starting to put all the pieces of the cycling puzzle together…and that’s pretty cool. Thanks again and good luck with your upcoming races!!