Wednesday 5 November 2008

Back in the Saddle!

Well this week is officially the start of my winter training. I can't tell you how good it feels to be back out on the bike - especially with the current crisp winter weather we have right now, clear skies and hardly a breath of wind. Whacked out 30 miles tonight to get the legs turning and I must say, i'm feeling great. Definately starting this winter with great form - so hopefully this is a sign that 2009 will be another good year for me.

I'm mixing things up a bit more this year - doing a bit of cross training which includes running and swimming, and also gym work on upper, lower body and core. Quite enjoying the running as well, it's great to balance things out, and i've even been doing a bit of Hill/Fell type stuff which is fun! I must say though, it is embarrassing how bad a swimmer I am, but I enjoy it all the same which is the main thing, and it's nice to do a few lengths to cool down after a session in the gym.

As the months progress, my idea is to shift my focus further towards "on the bike" time. I think this is the key to finishing a year of racing mentally and physically strong, as I think last year too much focus on the bike from November all the way through to September resulted in me feeling a bit "fried" in my last couple of races. One thing is for sure - running and swimming sure make you realise how good cycling is ;-)

1 comment:

Sandblogger said...

Good point about reducing saddle time through the winter. I think I had the same feeling as you. it'a amazing how those long january days in the saddle can burn you later.