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MY INSANE CULT
FEW OF US HAVE BEEN TO AN AA MEETING, but we've seen TV/movie version many times. Hi, I'm Todd and...
... I'm an endurance junkie.
Hi Todd.
When we come clean with the general population, Today I...
- swam 10,000 yards
- rode for 5 hours
- ran 20 miles
... they think we're crazy.
We're not.
The adrenaline rush of ...
- 60 miles an hour in nothing but lycra
- the swimmers blue mind
- the runner's high
... we need that hit.
Regularly.
This risks we take...
- sending it down the mountain
- running along into the cold, dark night
- impossibly holding our breath one more length
... would freakout any life insurance company.
These sensations of pushing well beyond normal, reasonable, safe...
... are often all that's keeping us stable.
In all sincerity, because the allure of the lottery and dulling our senses with substances is so very tempting and tragically treacherous...
... stay dangerous my friends.
The sane kind.
===
164.6
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 60 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: `100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 60lbs
86/98/-12 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TODAY WAS A ROUGHIE
SOME BIG TRAINING DAYS are better than others. The reasons are myriad. Which means when it goes sideways...
... it's up to us to figure it out.
Like today.
I knew it was going to be a big day...
- 7 hrs
- 87 miles
- 10,500' of vert
... on Monday.
There are only 8 weeks to get our Leadville legs, and me and Let's Go need(ed) to do some simulation.
For me,
today,
I just never got comfortable.
Never felt that feeling of being on top of the pedals and...
... smoothly moving like a Singer sewing machine.
It was much more like a broke down pumpjack one might see in the hot and dusty oil fields of Bakersfield...
... in desperate need of lube and love.
Clunk.
Clunk.
Clunk.
I've narrowed it down to a few things...
- going too deep on Thursday after solid Tuesday and Wednesday
- rolling the gravel wheels vs road wheels on Friday's BRO ride
- hitting the legs with resistance Sunday-Thursday
... and I should know better.
I'm gonna add to that...
- probs too much tire pressure
- def hotter today than our last attempt
- carrying a third bottle to be safe on hydration
... some I can control, some I can't.
In the end, I think it really comes down to not being sufficiently recovered.
On a positive note, given the fatigue level...
... we averaged 12.7 mph with zero drafting over a similar profile to Leadville.
Not bad.
Not great.
But, we can work with that.
Oh, and I'm feeling quite extra speedy on the downhills.
Time for...
- In-N-Out burger, fries and shake
- some good sleep
- and a day off
... to set the pins up to be knocked down next week.
===
164.6
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: `0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
89/113/-25 per Strava (someone's tired!)
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THAT TOPSECRET SECRET
THE IDEA OF A PUBLIC DECLARATION is not new. Lots of people have proclaimed they will accomplish X goal and gone on to do just that...
... because it works.
There is a hitch.
The haters,
the perceived haters,
hating the idea of haters.
There are plenty of famous athletes who have made the call and fallen flat on their face...
... sometimes by knockout.
Which is why most of keep our plans secret,
denying ourselves the power therein.
I'm onboard with that.
There is also power in keeping our intentions unknown.
Wherein lies another hitch.
If we're posting our stats with the Strava lords,
that might be considered a passive-aggressive statement.
Which begs the question...
... if we're keeping our mouths shut, do we keep our training private?
Personally, I'm open book on that, except for my top secret racing agenda which scrawled in code...
... on my vision board.
===
164.6
7iah hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 30 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: `0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
83/84/1 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IMAGINE THAT!
WHEN WE WERE CHILDREN, can ya even remember that?, we had tremendous imaginative powers. From games to friends to travel to faraway places...
... our lives were boundless.
What happened?
Did reality set in?
Did we set conditions on our dreams?
Did some kind old bag of wind tell us not to have our heads in the clouds?
The thingaboutitis...
... when we register for an event or race, all bets are off.
We've already imagined...
- the trainging
- the equipement
- the travel and accomodations
... to start.
More importantly, if we're really on our A game, and you and I are!...
... we can see the finish line, and exactly how we'll be at that moment.
Which isn't child's play.
It's actually...
- life
- business
- relationships
... how doers get it done!
As I'm writing this I'm reminded of the gloves I wore today...
and the shirt I'm wearing right now
This is gonna be a total marketing faux pas because we're neverever supposed to make too many offers, but...
... I imagine more than a few of you will want this reminder to Rip!
Order the Gloves, get the Shirt for FREE.
Use this code: LET'SRIP
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lets-rip-buy-t-get-gloves-for-free
===
162.6
8 hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 30 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 30 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
85/91/-7 per Strava
What I'm reading: 7 Powers, The Foundations of Business Strategy, Hamilton Helmer
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
EMBRACING THE BURN, DAILY/OFTEN
WE'VE ALL FELT THE BURN. Some of us love it, some of us hate it. No matter where we are on the spectrum...
... the burn is coming for us.
Is it minimizable?
Maybe.
If yesterday is any indicator, I may have stumbled upon something.
For the last few weeks, I've been steadily increasing my ATG air squats.
From reps of 10 to reps of 30.
If you haven't done them lately, or ever...
- standing
- to full "ass to grass"
- to standing
... it's quite a shock to learn our trusty bottom half may not be as durable as we think.
When I started 10 burned,
then 20 really burned...
... the last 5 of 30 were a massive struggle.
Back to yesterday's hammerfest, when the burn came on it was like my body saying...
... Oh, we're gonna burn now. Buckle up buttercup, I've got this.
Rather than pulling the plug at the onset of burn, I embraced it and powered on.
Best I've felt in weeks/months.
Now, I'll be the first to admit it could just be that I was supertapered going into last weekend's BWR UT and I might just be having a good response to the taper followed by the 3.5 hours of racing across the high desert.
But, even if that's the case...
... the burn of 30 ATGs feels so good.
Gonna keep upping it,
apparently 100 is a thing.
(yes, on top of split squats and probably bringing back box jumps)
===
165.2
8 hours sleep
480 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 90 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 90 ATG air squats and 18 split squats with 50lbs
85/96/-12 per Strava
What I'm reading: 7 Powers, The Foundations of Business Strategy, Hamilton Helmer
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I CAN'T BELIEVE SHE TOOK ME BACK
IT'S REALLY HARD TO LET GO of something we love. The fear we won't get it back is legit. Yet, the opportunity of enjoying something new...
... is real, and tantalizing.
The known vs the unknown.
Once we move on, that thing we left behind might...
- forget about us
- reject our return
- change and move on
... it's risky.
No, Surfergirl didn't leave me or vice versa.
But!...
... I did leave my beloved TMWC (Tuesday Morning World Championships) for another ride: Wednesday Worlds.
The main reason, and it's very valid, waking up at 5am and rolling out in the cold, dark, pre-dawn was leaving me almost worthless for work the rest of the day.
The lesser reason, I was thinking the blazing intensity of WW would be a better work out.
Well, a funny thing happened when a downloaded the Tuesday vs WW data...
- significantly more time above threshold and VO2 max
- much higher average and normalized power
- and, the best, all my pals were there
... to smack me in the face!
For sure, it helped that the sun was up when I rolled out.
And, I was putting down power on the road vs battling dust, rocks and terrain.
The fellas were all welcoming...
... probably because they knew they'd dump me up The Wall and send me home with a good lycra whipping.
Gawd, I've missed this ride and these awesome cats.
===
165.2
7 hours sleep
480 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 30 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 30 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
84/83/-9 per Strava
What I'm reading: 7 Powers, The Foundations of Business Strategy, Hamilton Helmer
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GIVE ME 10 WEEKS
HOW LONG DOES IT REALLY TAKE to get into top shape for an A race is a question we'd all like answered. For an Olympian, it might be years. For us...
... we might have a few months.
Or less.
Depending on when we sign up, and the vagaries of life.
But, let's just say we are fitter than most,
not as fit as some.
Then our focus will be...
- long climbs or power climbs
- slogs into the wind or a million turns
- finishing in ones and two or a ripping bunch sprint
... more on race specific training.
Given a good baseline of fitness, my general rule is...
- our bodies
- our equipment
- our travel and logistics
... it takes 10 weeks to really sharpen the saw.
For me, aiming for Leadville on 8.15.26, I've got time...
... but, no time to waste.
And, so it begins.
===
164.6
8 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level,
√ Upper Body: 60 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 60 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
81/72/9 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: The Search, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE PREPARATION/EXPECTATION EQUATION
DECONSTRUCTING OUR RECENT PERFORMANCE is critical for improvement. The longer we wait, the foggier our recollection. Details we were sure of...
... become memories full of bias.
It's natural.
Who wants to remember what went wrong, when we can glory in all that went right?
Other than screwing up yet another sprint for the line, nothing really went sideways for me at BWR UT.
And, if I'm being honest, Billy tested my legs on the overpass coming into to town. Whether or not he knew it, and I stayed glued through the the pain...
... I was hurting.
There are a few things that went really right...
- The chef's pasta the night before at Chef Alfredo's, with Danny and Lisa, was delish and just what I needed.
- The AirBNB I found at the last minute - a 3-bedroom house was perfect and the beds wonderful.
- The 8:30 start was a little too late to skip breakfast, so I went with my gut and mowed down a couple of chocolate Entenmann's donuts, half an apple, and a couple of cups of my trusty mushroom hot chocolate.
- I picked up Skratch Super High Carb and ran 6 scoops in my 2-liter pack and another 3 in one bottle.
- To stay ahead of cramps, I ate a Salt Stick chews.
- For the bike set up,
- Ceramic Speed chain held up really well to all the dust, even after getting doused with cold water by Smitty at the final aid station.
- The tire pressure was pretty low, 22lbs in back 20lbs up front. I rimmed out a few times over the random chunky stuff while in a paceline. That's always risky. But, I also felt like I was much more comfortable than other competitors who dropped off the group over time.
... the last was mindset.
Preparation vs Expectation.
I came in pretty rested having spend the previous 2 weeks on my MTB in Park City.
Because of the altitude, it was difficult to put in hard efforts of any meaningful time. Hours in the saddle were solid, but even a lot of that was spent ripping down hill.
I'd give me preparation a B, which was fine for a B race.
Knowing that, my expectations were quite low.
Here's the point...
... poor preparation with high expectations is a formula for frustration and a crummy day on course.
Whereas...
... awesome preparation with low expectations always makes for a fun race and often surprising outcomes.
===
163.6
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level,
√ Upper Body: 100 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 70 ATG air squats and 18 split squats with 50lbs
82/74/7 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT IT?
IF THINGS AREN'T ENDING UP as we'd like them to, the obvious thing to do would be dong something different. But, that can be a hard pill to swallow because...
... we're comfy and don't wanna change.
Hope isn't a strategy.
Or, a tactic.
So, even though I was hoping I'd be able to fend off the change with a few hundred meters to go at BWR UT, the mofo I'd been working with for the last 30 miles...
... stuck a shiv in my back.
There was nothing I could do.
Had no answer.
Surfergirl, bless her little beating heart, could see I was frustrated with myself and...
... accidentally twisted the buried blade.
What are you going to do about it?
I think it was an innocent, honest, loving, caring question due to the fact that she's seen me frustrated with something...
... then, draw up a solution and make it happen.
Truthfully, does it really matter if close out a racing effort by taking some cat on the line who I may never see again?
Not even.
What matters, to me, is that I execute the plan.
In this case...
... having something left at the end, to rip a fast finish.
The kool kids call that durability.
I call it having your shift together when it counts, which means I'll be needing to...
... wrap up long rides with sprints that sting.
===
164ish no scale
7.5 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/86/-3 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU EXCITED FOR THE RACE TOMORROW?
THE NIGHT BEFORE any race is not a normal night. No matter how practiced we are there's always something different to our routine. Sometimes...
... we just make it up.
Why not?
It might work,
or not.
Surfergirl keeps asking me are you excited?
I wanna say yes,
and I know I will be tomorrow...
... about a millisecond after we start.
Until then,
my energy tends to be low.
Not depressed low.
Hybernation low.
Lethargic.
Slothy.
Trying to amp me up, she asks...
... have you looked at reg to see who's going to be there?
That's the kind of thing that...
- if I glanced at it now
- the night before the race
- when I'm trying to chill and sleep early
... would def keep me up and tossing and turning.
No, that's not my agenda.
I prefer to...
- lose all hope
- ditch all desire
- punt all pretense
... and shut 'er down with my favorite pint.
===
164ish no scale
8.5 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
81/70/11 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
NOSTALGIA
WE ALL STARTED this endurance journey somewhere, likely not where we are today. Introduced by a friend, sometimes on purpose, others inadvertently. While we may change locales, and the friends become distanced…
… we’re still here.
In the game.
We may have the opportunity to go back to where it all started.
For me, it was…
- my roommate’s bike
- a finagled purchase of my own
- secrets of sprinting revealed by Bret, who raced track nationally for San Jose Bicycle Club
… in Provo, UT.
I rearranged my classes…
- to start as early as possible
- so I could ride every afternoon
- before cruising the library to cruise the cubicles in search of a “study” partner.
… because I had priorities to attend to.
Today I hit a climb I’d always wanted to check out, Cascade Springs, but it was a battered gravel road back in the day.
Now, it’s pristine pavement all the way up over 8000’
Followed by a plummeting descent that is as magical now as it was 40 years ago.
I’ve moved,
but, I never really moved on…
… and, I’m quite okay with that.
===
164ish no scale
8.5 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
81/68/12 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE TRUE PRICE OF FREE ADVICE
A WHILE BACK, I connected with the COO of a well-known bike brand. We were working on a collaboration at the time. I asked him for some...
... advice on what we're doing over here.
Today, we met for lunch.
Looked at from now to the end of the year,
the objectives I want to accomplish,
what I think is possible.
No different than...
- capabilities
- weaknesses
- peak seasonal events
... planning the race season with a coach.
After some yummy tacos,
and back of napkin calculations...
... we came up with a solid methodology to implement.
Like any great coach,
my friend made it so simple to understand...
... and gave me the confidence to go for it.
I was prepared to pay a minimum of $1,000.
In the end it could be way more expensive than that...
... if I don't take action.
It could cost me 100s of 1000s.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/77/5 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE SUFFERING AND EPICCING TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN?
WE ALL KNOW that group workouts are torturous by nature. It's not a secret. Yet, we continue to show up beating after beating because...
... suffering loves company.
Alone, for most of us, is no good.
We won't see it through,
we'll ease up when we should be hardening up.
The bonds we end up forming are often unbreakable...
... we're in agony together.
Suddenly people who barely knew each other are fist bumping and ready for the next one.
What's the opposite bondforming experience?...
... when we're pushing geographic boundaries together.
Like today.
It wasn't the 90 minute climb topping out at 9160'.
Nope.
It was the 60 minutes of downhill...
- ripping through the trees
- sliding around gorgeous berms
- jumping rocks and roots and stumps
... feeling like we were cheating life.
Epiccing, like suffering, loves company.
We set off in search of adventures that will push beyond the comforts or riding around the block...
... the unknown and undiscovered beckoning to be shared.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/71/10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
COOCOO FOR CLIMBING
IF WEIGHTED SQUATS are a lot better than air squats, is climbing a lot better than riding on the flats? And, if climbing is better...
... is climbing with a weighted vest mo' bettah?
Things one wonders.
And takes to extremes.
I remember backintheday, rolling out with 100oz hydration pack on my back and 2 large waterbottles filled with sand.
It seems so silly now,
almost as all the ruckers.
On a bike we can measure power.
So, we know.
We know we don't need to stress our backs with extra weight or stupid add ons...
... we can just pedal faster.
Velocity X Force - Power
Which taken a step further...
... climbing aint gonna train us any better than flats.
We gotta put out the power.
There is a caveat, if we like...
- climbing big mountains
- ripping punchy stuff
- pounding the flats
... our bodies will adapt and become more efficient at the one we love and gravitate towards.
Me personally?
I'm coocoo for climbing,
and bananas for bombing.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/63/17 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HEAR ME OUT
SOMETIMES IT'S JUST PLAIN FUN to make fun of Velo, "powered by Outisde". Whether it's their clickbaity titles, AI drivel, or soulselling advertorials...
... there's at least one good laugh a day.
Here's my current favorite.
Stop Complaining About Sound, These Are The Best Headphones for Cycling
Roight!
Because decreasing our ability to engage with our surroundings when traveling 20+ miles per hour in our underwear on...
- trails
- gravel
- pavement
... is a great idea.
Genius.
Next up...
... Stop Complaining About Night Vision, These Are The Best Sunglasses After Sunset.
There is no best.
At best, assuming it's not clickbait or advertorial would be...
... These Headphones Least Worsen Your Ability To React To Danger When Riding.
Or, for the trailrunners...
... These Earbuds Reduce Getting The Shift Scared Out of You When A Bike Rider Has Been Saying 'Hey There' For 5 Minutes and Finally Gives Up and Passes You.
Now for you in the back jumping up and down ready to tell me to not be so closeminded...
... I hear you.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/72/10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
>
POP TART POWERED, BEE STUNG... ATHLETE unINTELLIGENCE
SOMETIMES, we just gotta change it up. Do something different just fer fun. Go against...
... conventional wisdom.
I thought it had been a good week...
- 177 miles
- 17:26 hours
- 20951' of vert
... given I'd been knocked down by a 24 hour bug.
Mostly in the dirt,
mostly with friends.
Yet, every single ride Strava's Athlete Intelligence...
... scored it as recovery or recovery and endurance.
Apparently, the AI couldn't account for the fact this sea leveler was suffering at 7000-10,000 elevation.
Rolling out this morning...
- a few scoops of Envy
- 4 pop tarts
- 1 Carbs gel
... I grabbed what I had + 100 ounces of water.
While I hoped to put down some power, since all I'd done was "recovery and endurance" rides...
... I knew the truth.
Leaving with a simple plan,
ride until I ran out of food and water.
It was an epic day in the mountains...
... topped off with a bee sting in the gut a few miles from home base.
Memorable.
===
164
9 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/0 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE ADVENTURE
SOMETIMES, the road really is better than the inn. We realize that whatever we are aiming for may not be all that great, but...
... putting in the work gives outsized returns.
Gratitude blooms.
Like today.
My pal Charles charts out this loop...
- 32 miles
- 4700' of vert
- topping out at 10,000'
... which seems really cool.
Until we hit our first massive fallen tree and bushwhack around it.
Then, patches of snow,
too long to ride.
Followed Puke Hill.
The view...
- The Great Salt Lake to the west
- Park City to the East
- Not a soul around
... stunning.
Somehow the goals seem weak, lacking...
... when beauty abounds.
If we'll just stop to look.
===
165ish, no scale
7ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/72/10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHEN TRAINING ISN'T ACCORDING TO PLAN
THE BEST LAID PLANS can go sideways for a variety of reasons. I'm not gonna list 'em since I don't want to poison your mind and have you...
... manifesting awfulness.
'Cause I'm questioning just that about myself.
Did I manifest...
- 3 days off at I Do Epic
- riding with friends short on time
- puking my guts out last night after a miserable 70 minute ride
... or, is it just life?
Doesn't matter too much,
except part of my GrandMasterRipOnRaceDay plan...
... was a massive training week this week to make up for last week
and leave me slightly buried for BWR next week.
I consulted AI all night...
- possibly caused by using pure table sugar on my rides
- hydration via room temp peppermint tea
- a few Tums
... while Surfergirl laughed at me and secured the remedy.
Arose after 10 hours, feeling a lot better.
Energy seems good enough to day...
... to meet up with the local slayers.
The prudent thing would be to skip the meet up,
spin at most, or sleep...
... a proper adjustment.
But, screw it...
... I've got plans, too.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/57/22 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HE'S A GENIUS
WE ALL HAVE, or should have, wish we had, that friend who can fix anything. Even though we've upped our skills over the years there's always that...
... next level repair.
We can't do it.
Like my SID fork, today...
- packing in on descents
- rebound slower than a sloth
- adjustment dials backing out and loose
... I was in a bind.
Turns out the great C Gonzer lives where I'm visiting,
racing pals from a decade ago.
Within about about 20 minutes,
he had it working nearly good as new.
How'd you learn how to do this?
I just really like working on my bikes.
That's it?
Well, I am a mechanical engineer by trade.
That's it...
- love what we do
- study the basics
- achieve mastery
... genius level work.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/57/23 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Feeling Is The Secret, by Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GETTING HIGH
TRAINING AT SEA LEVEL is no way to prepare for high elevation activities. Sure we have extra oxygen to go hard, which is always nice. But, it'd be even nicer...
... to be able to rip when high.
Which begs the question...
... why am I working so darn hard, putting out so little power?
Nah, that's obvious.
Kinda.
90 minutes into the ride today,
we'd been ripping up Big Mountain Pass (f'real).
Challenging?
Yes.
Wheezing?
Yes.
Gapped?
Indeed.
Here's the rill dill...
... even though the power is relatively low,
the breathing is labored.
Which presents a realhonesttogoodness truth...
- breathing too hard
- not thinking 100% clearly
- focusing on staying on pace
... it's hard to stay on top of the hydration and nutrition at altitude significantly above our normal.
We, me especially, gotta force it.
Another important consideration at high elevations...
... it's better to pace on HR than PWR.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/71/12 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Feeling Is The Secret, by Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SETTLING...
THE IDEA OF SETTLING, for most of us, is repulsive. We'd never do that because our standards are too high...
... or, so we think.
Because we don't know better.
Welp,
today I realized
I've totally been settling.
While we do have trails to ride near home...
- skinny single track with rain ruts
- weeds elbow high
- punch climbs
... it's nothing like Utah..
Today, outside of Kamas was incredible.
My pals, PViddy and TimmyV, had been telling me it was great up here.
But, c'mon...
- smooth, fast and flowy
- adorned with greenery and trees
- berms so perfect the suspension compresses as you no-brake it
... expertly engineered trials.
Waywaywaywayway better than my home trails.
Once we know we're settling the only question is...
... what are we gonna do about it?
===
165ish, no scale
8ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/61/21 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
A GOOD BREAK
TAKING TIME OFF can be restorative. Sometimes it's on purpose, other times its an unplanned forced situation. Either way...
... we're anxious to get back at it.
Like right now.
Being that I was committed to be all in at the biz conference...
... I skipped the last few days.
Including the typical epic Saturday.
Everything feels really good except my gut, which is feeling quite bloated...
... after lots of good food.
I suppose that's part of the anxiety, not...
- the drop in fitness
- the packed on pounds
- the connecting with the crew
... the sensation of being a caged animal.
Some might caution,
don't over do it.
A fair warning if working back from an injury.
But, this belly is yellin' at me,
get after it,
right now.
Can't wait to start shedding and shredding manana.
(I've got 10 days to turn it around before BWR UT)
===
165ish, no scale
78ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/63/20 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
>
AI DRIVEN?
AI could be all it's cracked up to be, if we can only learn how to use it to our benefit. But, new things can be...
... a challenge to learn.
Even scary.
One of the take aways on day 3 of I Do Epic was regarding AI,
and it got me thinking about racing...
... because as we say, Racing is life!.
My grand takeaway is AI's ability to deliver what we are looking for has much to do with regarding the prompts.
For example, knowing what you know about me...
... create a training program as if you were Javier Sola
Just like us at a race,
AI needs its head screwed on straight in order to deliver.
And a proper prompt is the starting point.
Making it human...
... what is the main prompt driving our training?
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/73/12 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WE CALL IT SPOOKED
THE UNMISTAKABLE ENERGY of the start line can be overwhelming for the uninitiated. We feel it the moment we arrive at an event, and when we line up the vibe can take us...
... from confident and courageous to literal shaking.
Plans melting.
Rather than the controlled missile launch we'd imagined, we are overcome by the complete chaos of undirected explosions.
And, that's okay,
until we want a different outcome.
On Day 2 of I Do Epic, we spent much the day in a massive barn learning how a master horse trainer teaches and guides the beasts with energy vs force.
Demonstrating the animal's sensitivity to each other in the herd as well as to us humans, as we approached and worked with the horses.
Thankfully, the inanimate endurance tools we depend on...
- bicycles
- helmets
- shoes
... cannot sense our moods or energy.
Can you imagine mounting a spooked bicycle?
I've often wondered how I am able to reach a place of calm and certainty with hundreds, sometimes thousands, of my "closest friends"...
... so close to losing it?
I don't have a good answer other than...
- a safe race
- an unleashing of the training put in
- finishing knowing there was nothing left in the tank
... experience and expectation.
But, the old cowboy did share one nugget that really resonated with me...
... We create what we anticipate.
===
165ish, no scale
8ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/84/3 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
START WHERE YOU ARE
TRAVEL BRINGS IT'S OWN CHALLENGES when it comes to maintaining our fitness. Will we have time, will there be space, do we have the equipment...
... will we even want to?
Have the energy?
When I signed up for I Do Epic Live in the hinterlands of Idaho, I figured we'd be starting early and ending late so...
- 27 hours
- 380 miles
- 27000' of vert
... I made sure I'd put in a large training block prior.
Taking a break made sense, but...
... a funny thing happened when I woke up.
I had two and half hours to kill,
while situated on the shore of the Snake river,
with a lovely and lonely gravel road echoing my vibe.
My original plan was out...
- a long walk
- a ton of push ups
- a million air squats
... a quick and glorious spin was in.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
89/97/-8 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I WANTED TO STOP SO BAD
GETTING AFTER IT for a long period of time can be a beautiful thing, if we are in the right mindset and our bodies are prepared...
... and we're used to it.
Even addicting.
But, if our head's not into it,
our bodies not prepped,
it's been a while...
... quitting looks might tasty.
Like today.
There we were, riding up one of the most beautiful climbs in Utah, the Alpine Loop...
- few cars on the road
- perfect spring weather
- forever views up into the snowpack
... a coupla dudes riding a good fast tempo.
And, about 45 minutes in...
... I wanted to pull over.
Have a smoke, errr bite of my bar,
dip my toes in the stream.
It would have been so easy,
and lovely.
Which is why I didn't do it.
Because I know from experience pushing through these moments is...
... what it takes to finish anything strong.
Well, and the reward of a chocolate chip cookie at Sundance...
... would be that much sweeter.
===
165.8/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
91/107/-17 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE OTHER CROSSTRAINING
IF WE'RE IN A RELATIONSHIP of any kind we're most likely going to be exposed to activities which don't perfectly align with...
... our primary objective.
Got it?
Yeah, we get it.
The thingaboutitis...
... it's usually more than okay.
Surfergirl loves to hike.
Any time we're roadtripping and I'm in a hurry to get to the beddown...
... she's plotting a once in a life time hike.
Like today,
just after 6pm
3 hours from our destination...
... we absolutely had to hike Kolob canyon for no less than 2 hours!
Yes, that's an explanation point because...
... old diesels need their beauty sleep
Her "reward" for this detour is me stretching out while she drives, which I'm pretty sure...
... she purposely fakes like she's tired and unnecessarily jerks the wheel so I'll get behind it.
While I have to admit the hike was outstanding, and served to remind me that I should do some regular hiking to prepare for the potential to be hiking at Leadville...
...it's pretty clear I have not properly trained her on driving in a relaxing and soothing manner nor bowing down to the needs of her old man's sleep.
===
165.8/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
no Stretches
88/98/-9 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
>
BECAUSE I ASKED...
MEMORIAL DAY IS A BUSY ONE around here. All kinds of people out enjoying the day: runnin, bikin, swimmin, surfin, paddlin...
... things were chaotic.
I got a late start.
Preferring to get some work knocked and start prepping the van for our road trip...
... I slipped out just past noon.
There is a steep hill above a picturesque beach that attracts locals, nonlocals and everyone in between.
At the top, I saw an older woman lugging two chairs for her and her ancient father.
Normally, I'd just wiggle around them and the rest and go on about my day...
... but I remembered.
Hi there, can I help you with those chairs?
Oh, yes, please.
Leaned my bike on a palm tree.
Let's go down a little bit more, where it's a little flatter.
C'mon dad, over here.
This looks pretty good.
Thank you.
No problem.
How did you know we needed help, nobody else noticed?
Oh, I prayed I'd be useful today.
With that, I was off on a lovely tour of the southern part of our county...
... pavement, gravel roads and single track.
You're probably thinking Nice virtue signal Todd...
... to which I'll say, thinking of others is not my default or my strong suit.
I have to work at getting my heart to be fully functional.
===
165.8/12.7%
8.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
91/113/-22 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE RANDOMNESS OF PROGRESS
NICHING DOWN is a legit way to go about maximizing results. We study the experts, learn all we can, put it into practice. The goal is...
... supreme mastery.
But, is narrow and deep the only way to get it done?
The best way?
Personally, I think I've learned more studying endurance athletes and coaches from other sports than I have focusing on bike racing.
Maybe, probably, there is more literature and research available.
Here are a few of my favorites
- running - Born To Run, Christopher McDougall
- triathlon - anything by Phil Maffetone
- swimming - Total Immersion Method, Terry Laughlin
- natural fitness - Natural Born Heroes, Christopher McDougall
... because they introduced me to new ways of thinking about endurance and fitness.
Bringing in randomness to our experience...
- events
- people
- travel
... can deliver game-changing progress hacks.
If we'll just open our ears, eyes, hearts.
===
165.8/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
88/99/-11 per Strava
>
AFTER TAKING SEVERAL READINGS
SIMULATING OUR 'A' EVENTS months in advance can be quite revealing, in bad...
... and good ways.
Once, isn't enough.
Every weekend is too much.
It's not a damned if we do,
damned if we don't situation.
More like a...
- damn?
- damn!
- hot damn!
... outcome.
With that in mind I turned to Grok to help me assess today's simulation because...
- what happens if I cut ballast?
- what workouts would improve my time?
- are there supplements that aid lung function at altitude?
... AI is damn fine when it comes to crunching numbers.
Because I'm a true and proud supernerd...
- 2 previous attempts in last 7 years
- body weight on those days
- power numbers as well
... I have the data, going back years.
I put Grok to work...
- I can improve
- I'm in a pretty good place already
- This is gonna be a heckuva lotta fun
... and came out with what I already sensed.
Grok thinks I can beat my previous PR,
which seems absolutely ludicrous...
... mainly because I have a lot of higher value things I want to accomplish this summer.
This is a typical use of AI for me...
- confirm/test/explore what's possible
- learn how to do things I can't figure out
- assist in leveraging my tiny helmet covered bean's processing power
... are you using AI to evaluate and make moves?
As the great Wille Nelson sings...
... After taking several readings I'm surprised to find my mind's (and body) still fairly sound.
===
167/12.7% oof!
7.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
90/114/-24 per Strava went kinda deep today
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S A LONE WOLF'S WORLD
NO MATTER HOW MANY friends are planning to do the A event with us, regardless of how many weekends we link up to train together...
... the bulk of our efforts are alone.
Unseen.
By nearly everybody, except that neighbor who we pass by at the same...
... godforbidden time each dark morning.
We're on the hunt...
- miles
- skills
- fortitude
... for more.
And even when we do link up, if we're truly committed...
... we might breakup, or off.
For example, I'm committed to ride a spritely tempo between all the worthy climbs tomorrow...
... where I'll move into the bottom to mid-threshold.
Because that's gonna be my pace at the A race,
and I've really got to train it now,
to maintain it then.
So, yeah, 7 miles up the climb I'll probably be alone...
... just like I'll most likely be on raceday.
Which is why I'm working on this jersey to where in in Leadville.
Personally, I feel like an inspirational, personalized jersey is good for...
... a 1-2% increase in performance.
If you're of the same persuasion...
- super aero jersey
- amazing imported Italian fabrics
- no minimum order required, make just 1
... go here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project
===
165.6/12.7% (time to start trimming blubber)
8.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
85/82/2 per Strava (time to bump these numbers up)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
13 WEEKS SHOULD BE ENOUGH
AT SOME POINT, the training for the A event has gotta get real. Sure we have our base miles just because we are base-ically addicted, but...
... that's not gonna cut it.
Gotta get specific.
As of this moment, I'm 13 weeks out from starting the Leadville Trail 100.
It'll be my 8th time.
While I know the drill, I also know...
... I'm nowhere near ready.
Haven't done an hour long climb...
... since I don't know when.
Haven't ridden over 5 hours since October.
Haven't ridden my MTB more than twice a week in ages...
... haven't
haven't
haven't
haven't
haven't.
Equally overwhelming and energizing...
... the challenge is elephant-sized.
And, I'm gonna attack it one mile at a time.
===
164.6/12.5%
8.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
86/89/-4 per Strava
>
STRETCH GOALS
STRETCHING seems to go in and out of popularity. When, how long, which moves are a essential...
... and that's not counting yoga and pilates.
Where to start?
That's a good question.
I'm no expert, which is why I check in with my physical therapy pal, Scott, from time to time.
Mostly when I'm miserable
or injured.
Which got me thinking.
The last couple of days my bike fit felt like it had changed...
... which is impossible, right?
Then, I thought...
... could my body have changed somehow?
Thinking back on my many visits with Scott...
... and how stretches had fixed various aches and debilitating pains.
It hit me like a ton of lycra!
I haven't been stretching regularly,
at all.
Got back at it this morning...
... dang, I'm stiff!
But, guess what...
... the bike fit felt back to awesome.
Stretch goals are the kind that have us reaching to our limits to accomplish what seems nigh impossible...
... I like setting those.
New/old stretch goal...
... stretch every night as part of my shutdown sequence.
===
163.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
86/91/-6 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT MASTERING THE BASICS LOOKS LIKE
THE VERY BEST PROS have mastered the basics. From techniques to tools, from sleeping to sprinting. They have it...
... all down cold.
How do we know?
Because at the very the very best are still practicing the basics...
... only the output is at a much higher level.
Duh!
Yeah, I know.
But, the real question is are we chasing...
- fads
- trends
- shiny objects
... or working diligently on mastering the basics?
===
163.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FROM FLOOR TO CEILING
BUILDING FITNESS can appear to be a mystery to the uninitiated. For the reasons, holding onto it is illusive. And losing it...
... downright easy.
It's a shame.
If the unwashed simply established a floor...
- a minimum daily commitment
- built over weeks
- and months
... they'd find their ceiling to be nearly limitless.
Instead, they get the bug or come clean with their naked selves...
... and progress rapidly for a short season.
Get thrown off track,
and start over.
We know different.
Our floor maybe is simple as getting outta bed and kitting up...
... knowing it's easy to get out the front door at that point.
After that, it's just a matter of raising the floor...
... to see how high we can fly.
Things I think about while riding zone two for 2 hours...
... because that was my floor today.
And, I always ride on Mondays.
===
165.6/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/90/-4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
PRISONS WE CHOOSE TO LIVE INSIDE
>
HOW FAR SHOULD WE TAKE OUR BRO-SCIENCE?
ONCE WE FIGURE OUT the gear and products that work for our bodies, it's, honestly, just amazing. It fits. It works. And we stick with it...
... because we rip.
Easy.
We don't want to change.
That can be a problem if what we love goes out of stock or worse...
... out of production all together.
A few years back, when Wahoo acquired Speedplay they dumped my tried and MTB pedals.
The Frogs.
Had I known, I'd have purchased at least 10 pair of pedals and probably 100 sets of cleats.
To my horror, I logged on and learned the sadsad news.
No mas.
When I woke and realized I was out of my favorite carb mix today...
- water
- plain ol' sugar
- and Liquid IV for flavor and electrolytes
... well, yeah, I took a stab a making my own.
You should witnessed the...
- disgust
- concern
- warnings
... from the crew when we stopped to refill our bottles midride.
I shared my mix was 4 tablespoons of sugar...
- you're gonna get diabetes
- go into a coma
- die early
... I could only laugh.
Just what exactly do you think is in your favorite powder or gel?
I got the idea from an ultra-trail runner I follow on YouTube.
He'd wanted to experiment and discovered how sucrose...
- quickly absorbed glucose
- more slowly absorbed fructose
... breaks down in the small intestine.
It's a 1:1 ration,
most high end mixes are 1:.8.
Ever look at the ingredients of what you're drinking?
My 4 very level tablespoons = 50 grams of carbohydrate.
But, isn't that gonna kill ya?
It's about the same as a can of Coke,
or a couple of candy bars.
So, yes, it will absolutely...
- crush our health
- give us that orange with 4 toothpicks look
- and lead to all kinds of degenerative diseases
... unless we are ripping and burning it up.
That 50 grams is about 50% of what I consume per hour...
... when getting after it.
How'd it work over 3 bottles?
Flawlessly.
Gonna test full strength this week.
This is bro-science...
... so take it with a literal and proverbial grain of salt.
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
660 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/88/-3 per Strava
>
FIRST (TASTE OF) BLOOD
WE'RE LIKE WILD ANIMALS. Once we get the first taste of adrenalin, charging through the countryside...
... with reckless abandon.
We're hooked.
The thingaboutitis...
... we gotta get that first taste.
16 years ago, my pal Dr. Jeff couldn't keep from...
... slobbering all over me.
About gravel riding.
You would love it.
Seems kinda lame.
Trust me.
Tell me why.
Well, it'a a combination of two things you love: road and mtb.
And it's fun?
Oh yes!
It took me 5 years to finally see a signal...
- steel
- heavy
- leather bags
... a lonely gravel bike on sale at the local bike shop.
I thought it was radical to ride the tires at such low pressure...
- 38mm
- 60 lbs
- with tubes
... now I'm on tubeless carbon hoops, rolling 18 up front 20 in the back.
So much has improved!
For the first year or more I rode gravel alone...
... like a lunatic in the wild.
It took 5 more years till a few of us were getting together...
... and another 3ish to do what we did today.
Ruckus URBN GRVL group rides.
In town for the weekend, Jeff joined us for today's masterpiece...
... I'm not sure he made the connection on the impact he's had on us.
===
165.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
6200 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
88/101/-14 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STOP BEING MEDIUM
THERE'S A REASON so many of us struggle to improve. Especially the newest of us...
... doing all we can to hang on.
Never improving.
I heard it said so well and succinctly today by one of my fave running coaches, the great Fred Duncan.
The question how much work we can survive in one session, it's...
- hard
- easy
- hard, again
... how many high quality outputs can we stack over weeks and months and years?
If we aren't resting, active-recovering we can't go hard enough on our hard days to see any improvement...
... we become really excellent at medium.
And, stay there.
Which is fine, if you're into that sorta thing.
But, I know you're not.
Which brings up today's ride...
- 23 miles
- ave HR 93
- ave PWR 102
... we did the impossible.
I say impossible because it's nearly impossible to get a group of athletes together and not start pushing...
... we pulled it off by setting the tone ahead of time.
The BRO ride is a super easy conversational cruiser...
... because bros need bro time.
Before slaying it on the weekend.
If you want to do a deeper dive on Fred's post it's here: https://x.com/Fred__Duncan/status/2055274916199502322?s=20
===
164.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/75/8 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ZONE TWO MUCH
ANYBODY CAN RIDE ZONE 2. It's easy. Zone 1 is easy. Coasting is easier. The trick is...
... to stay there.
For a long time.
The past few months I've been doing my Z2 on the mountain bike,
on kinda steep trails.
Not spinning,
a lot of torque...
... then completely off when descending.
Which is somewhat easier than what I did today...
- keeping on the pedals
- with high cadence
- limited coasting
... Zone 2 on mainly flat, with a few rollers.
Turns out 2:80 spend doing...
- 90 minutes Z2
- 31 min Z1
- 9 min z3
... is it's own kinda hard.
1261 calories burned ain't nothing.
The mental game to stay at a given pace and basically never stop pedaling...
... regardless of the terrain.
I know you zwifties are wanting to mock me,
and I'm totally down with how much harder
it can be on a trainer.
I get it.
The real point is this kind of training...
... is extremely effective at building physical and mental endurance.
===
165.2/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER OF MID-WEEK RACING
MID-WEEK RACING has been around for ages and continues to endure because it's great training, fun to bring the community together...
... and get in some ripping intensity.
400 showed up to race Over The Hump last night.
A very healthy number of age group competitors...
... ready to battle.
I've missed the last two seasons,
so it was exciting to finally make it out.
I entered Elite 45+ looking to see how I'd rate.
Warming up,
I saw a lot of friends.
But, I was missing one.
My pal Eric was senselessly killed last year while riding his bike early in the morning, by a druggy.
After a decade of racing together...
- bro hugging each week
- seeing his babies grow up
- and turn into fine little racers
... there was a hole in my heart.
On the start line,
the energy was high,
the confidence eager.
We shot out.
I maneuvered leading into the first single track,
thinking okay this feels right.
There was only one solid climb,
20 minutes of redlining.
From leading,
to wheezing,
to 7th.
Ouch!
The downhill was a couple of miles long,
and it felt good - even PRd it.
Sliding out onto the double track,
I could see 5th and 6th,
and closed the gap.
Two of the three of us were pulling hard back to the finish line.
Just as we're about to hit the final single track before the finish,
we're caught by some of the guys we'd dropped.
At the same time,
we enter the tight turns we merge with the Beginners and Sport racers.
It's not pretty.
Some of us give the slower riders space,
others mob through.
I go from 5th to 8th.
Frustrated.
Upset about getting beat by the dude who wasn't pulling with us.
Finishing,
I stormed off.
Not my finest moment.
After a recovery drink and some spinning...
- reveling in my anger
- knowing it would motivate me
- looking forward to some specific training
... I realized how great it is to be racing.
Once I'd changed into my tshirt and jeans, I had time to reflect...
- we live in a free and prosperous country
- have the time and energy for mid-week racing
- I'm feeling 100% recovered from my TBI, while Eric is riding in the heavens and his family navigates life without him.
... and be extremely grateful.
===
165.2/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
590 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CONSISTENCY IS BORING AND...
THERE'S BEEN A LOT OF CHATTER on the interwebs regarding what happens by simply being consistent. What is often left out is the biggest battle...
... which must be won.
Boredom.
That's what the naysayers are thinking as we head out into the morning sunrise doing the unfathomable.
Sure, it can be monotonous to do the same workout over and over.
But, we aren't newbs or drones and know how to counter that by mixing it up, and socializing with likeminded beasts.
With unholy motivation we focus...
... on the rewards.
Months and years later,
we're nothing like the person we started out as.
Consistency might look boring to an outsider, but...
... we know it's lethal.
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/-4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DANGEROUS ENCOUNTERS
THERE'S DANGER just crossing the street. But, people do it and a lot more because it's part of life. We, on the other hand...
... like to raise the stakes.
Ignoring the warnings.
For years, I have casually read the signs regarding mountain lions and rattle snakes on our local trails and all over the western US.
In the process I've...
- a close up encounter with a big cat
- run over many sunbathing snakes
- stared down coyotes
... had one real scare and many thrills.
The cat was the most shocking.
I thought I was seeing a large loping coyote way up the gravel road.
Not uncommon.
Keep going.
Kept seeing as elevation changed.
Rounded a corner only to see a giant cat perpendicular to the road.
Staring at me.
Didn't do what you're supposed to do...
- stand your ground
- make yourself look bigger
... back pedaled and ripped up a single track, braking to make the turn at the top.
Went back to that spot many, many times,
raced up that hill as fast as possible...
... never came close to needing to brake to make the turn at the top.
That my friends is living.
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TIMING
TIMING IS EVERYTHING, and there is so much to be timed when it comes to racing. To time anything to perfection necessitates...
... starting very early.
Ultimately, requiring less energy.
We saw this today at the Giro.
The winning sprinter producing fewer watts than 2nd or 3rd place...
- 1480w
- 1870w
- 1580w
... making it look easy(er).
Because he timed his acceleration perfectly.
Not unlike sprinting for the line, the great Scott Adams stated...
... the secret to success is energy management.
Which helped me lean into doing my best and most important work early in the day when I'm most alert and creative.
What else...
- workouts
- relationships
- spiritual exploits
... can we improve with better timing?
===
165.2/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/87/-2 per Strava
>
BLAME IT ON THE DONUT
STAYING ON TOP OF THE RECOVERY is super easy to skip. Especially, if we are really on top of it...
... day after day.
We're rested.
When the opportunity presents itself to overdo it...
... we do it.
We think we'll be fine.
We aren't going to do die, but...
... we will be less than fine.
Like today.
After shortchanging myself on sleep two nights in a row,
getting talked into more than easy spinning,
skipping the hyper-ice sessions...
... all variables I couldashoulda controlled,
I suffered today.
The sting of ripping,
felt stale and suffocating.
When looked back on the data...
- on trails I've ridden
- raced up
- stomped
... I actually set some PRs.
The difference when between being fatigued vs fresh is stark...
... longfaced-droopy vs JUBILANT.
Eventually, I succumbed to the efforts,
pulling the plug halfway up a steepytechy...
... and limped to the donut shop.
Where, after a few moments and calories and water I miraculously...
... felt very fauxfresh!
===
165.2/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
6500 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/100/-13 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BRO!
ALL RACING AND TRAINING ain't the way to do it. The ubersuccessful connect with others on a deeper level, it's the glue we need...
... to help us hold it all together.
Not the training and racing.
Life.
Some say getting out and getting after is...
... cheap therapy.
I won't argue with that.
Getting out, and away, for a conversational workout...
... can be life changing.
Lifesaving.
But, we already know that.
Most of our friends don't,
or don't make the time,
or have the friendship.
Which got me out on the road way earlier than I wanted to today,
because I knew my pal had been traveling a ton,
and could squeeze in a ride.
And got me thinking...
- early start
- easy terrain
- all bikes welcome
... why not create a BRO ride?
Details in the image.
(Surfergirl has had this going with the Trail Angels for decades).
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/84/0 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BEST EFFORTS OSCILLATE
DOING OUR BEST. We hear from the time we take our first steps, through our teens, into adulthood. Then we preach it...
... to anyone who will listen.
Because it works.
As the great Tony Horton used to say on the P90X videos...
.. do your best, and forget the rest.
It's a legit way to live, except...
... our best oscillates.
We can get better at our best...
... is there anything more exciting than knowing that?
I found a fun features on Strava today.
The Best Efforts Power Curve has a little box we can check and...
... Show Estimated FTP.
The last 6 weeks I've been pretty dialed.
According to the app I've raced FTP 10 watts.
The feedback is helpful.
Knowing we can improve...
... is a devine gift.
===
165.6/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/91/-5 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GO BIG, PUNK!
THROWING THE GEARS TO THE BIG RING used to be much more of a thing. With the advent of 13-speed, not so much. Lot's of 1x drivetrains...
... making things simpler.
Better...
- lighter
- more aero
- cleaner look
... depends on the use case.
MTB started it all,
can't even buy one with 2x.
Gravel bikes are mostly there,
some 2x systems.
Road and TT have special use for 1x.
Track and BMX have always kept it clean and simple.
Anyway, there I was this morning doing my dawgawn bestest to try and recapture my PR from Jan 2026 on a segment called Pain Cave because...
... who wants to just cruse home after hammerin'?
And it dawned on me...
... back in Jan I forced myself to stay in the big ring all the way up the steeps.
Did it work?
Kinda.
Knocked 2:47 off of last week's tepid attempt...
... still 48 seconds off the PR.
I looked back at my scale logs...
... I'm 2 lbs heavier, .5% higher in body fat.
Then my weight training...
... I'm doing a lot more leg work Sunday and Monday.
Probably not a great way to prep for Wednesday.
Lastly I looked at time spent in Zone 4 or above...
... 48 min in Jan vs 49 min today.
I'll take another cracky at it...
- come in lighter
- more rested
- caffeinated
... attacking with punk blazing style.
Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-punk-collection
===
165.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/92/-7 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE SUPER SUCCESSFUL DIET THAT IS POTENTIALLY KILLING OUR POTENTIAL
THERE ARE A LOT OF SUCCESSFUL plans to decrease our extra ballast. Perhaps the most powerful is one that we rarely actually apply to getting lean...
... yet allow to dictate our ultimate potential.
Case in point.
Eat the same meal, day after day...
... we'll get sick of it.
Eat less.
Waste away.
Lose muscle.
It's just a fact.
Yet, we do that same thing...
- same group rides
- same strength work
- same A race targeted
... with so much of our activities.
The inertia against improvement is overwhelming.
We can't do more,
become more.
We stall,
or worse,
we give it all up.
And why not?
It's become boring.
However, who can blame even the most monk-like amongst us who pack on the pounds because...
... there are so many amazing food choices to be had.
These days, living in any kind of a city, even the smallest, there can be found really creative and fun dining experiences.
We can eat more,
yes, become more.
Maybe not the more we are looking for.
If we're really going to reach new heights...
- new groups
- new strength work
- new A races targeted
... we must mix it up.
PS this applies to everything: love, family, business, sprituality.
===
164.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
720 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/3 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY COACHING IS MAGICAL?
REACHING OUT TO THOSE we think are in the know is pretty common practice. We can glean a lot. Getting serious about outcomes and...
... hiring a coach is next level.
#worth-it
I was thinking about this because last week I had two different people reach out to me about training questions.
Asking for my input.
Here's the dill.
For the most part a coach...
... isn't going to wave a wand and fix us.
What we're really paying a coach to do is...
... to tell us what we don't want to hear and hold us accountable.
It's rarely a question of knowing what to do.
Much more a question of willingness to do it.
And, ya know, when you're payin' for it...
... it does magically work.
(and, I heckuvalot faster than wingin' it)
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
730 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/87/-2 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HOTTER 'N HELL, COLDER 'N HELL... WE'RE STILL DOING IT!
Nov 02, 2022
by TODD BROWN
SIX MONTHS AGO WE ATTEMPTED A MASSIVE RIDE, from the coast to the faraway mountains of Big Bear. We'd planned it well in advance, with out of towners joining, and couldn't change the date...
... we rode in 120° heat wave, and failed at mile 100.
We're going for it again tomorrow, predicted low is 14°.
It won't be bad at the start, and during the day should be wonderful. But, again around mile 100...
... weather is going to be a factor.
If all is on track, we should hit the final climb about 1pm. That leaves us 4-5 hours to cover 30ish miles and 5000ish feet of climbing. We should be warm climbing up the steep gravel road...
... that summit is gonna be very cold.
It's a quickish drop to town from the top, and a short ride to a killer AirBnB with a spa and hot food waiting.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
I'll for sure be using layers for warmth, and wearing my all time favorite KOM jacket...
... it is very wind and water resistant, and packs up super small.
We are closing out the remaining inventory because we are redesigning the back pocket.
Trust me, this will be your favorite jacket... and we might have on in your size at 50% savings.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
---
159.3
9 hrs
17.9% b.f.
60% h2o
1 Strength Circuits
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE DELICATE ART OF NOT SUCKING
Nov 01, 2022
by TODD BROWN
MOUNTAIN BIKERS, TRIATHLETES you have mastered this fine art. Because MTB racing is basically a mass start time trial, and triathlon is a time trial...
... you don't suck.
But, I fear for my road and gravel peoples.
So many you have not yet mastered...
... the art of not sucking.
I must let you in on a little secret.
If you'll just get your lycracovered posterior to the front and roll through you'll be insanely rewarded with
- respect
- better fitness
- ... and less effort
Just use this little trick for those overwhelming benefits.
- Be smooth
- Do a short pull
When you find yourself up front, and you nose is in the wind...
... don't be a hero and bury yourself.
- Pull through
- Pull over
- Recover
Rather than yoyoing off the back with the gaggle of geese, chasing after every corner, wasting all kinds of energy...
... you'll smoothly pull through like the majestic eagle were born to be.
Get out of the gaggle,
you're not a goose.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
It's always a good time for flashy lights...
... alone, in the group, or off the front.
Check out these gems
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
---
160.2
6.5 hrs
17.3% b.f.
60.4% h2o
1 Strength Circuits
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME COMING
Oct 31, 2022
by TODD BROWN
FOR AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER, it's been struggle and worry every day. I work so hard and I put in all my hours...
... just to gain a few watts every day.
But then one night you came along.
And every little thing is gonna be all right.
The great Tom Jones mostly sang those words about girls and lonely nights...
... it's just as true with my longing for a food strategy.
Low-carb is a strategy I just might be falling in love with, as I've really commited to it.
- Not no carb
- Not low-cal
Tried those.
No bueno for me.
The result of low-carb?
Way, way, way better energy throughout the day.
Shocking really.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
Not as shocking as some of these deals...
... save at least 50%.
No promo code need.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
---
160.7
8 hrs
17.5% b.f.
60.2% h2o
2 Strength Circuits
30 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY DID THE TORTOISE REALLY WIN THE RACE?
Oct 30, 2022
by TODD BROWN
PROGRESS IS A WEIRD THING, especially in endurance sports. I grew up surfing, if I took a month off and paddled out I could still catch waves and have a blast...
... endurance sports are different.
Time is a key ingredient for any endeavor, but there is something even more important.
The rabbit lost to the tortoise because he was all over the freakin' map.
Starting,
stopping,
changing direction,
going way off course.
The tortoise had a superpower beyond the simple goal of reaching a set destination...
... and that is the key to success in endurance sports.
Consistency.
The workouts don't have to be magnificent, just consistent.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
Because we are consistently improving our product and adding new designs it's time to clear out some gear...
... save at least 50%.
No promo code need.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/close-outs
---
161.2
8.5 hrs
16.8% b.f.
60.9% h2o
0 Strength Circuits
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
I LOVE IT, BUT I HATE THE TASTE
Oct 29, 2022
by TODD BROWN
XC MTB RACES ALWAYS START OUT HARD, but the Filthy 50 is ridiculous. 500 yards after the start on a wide service road, there is a narrow gate leading to a narrower path...
... you must go 100% for the first 5 miles or be gapped out the back.
Then climb Raptor Ridge, all out.
Make it down the other side with a lead group and you're set up for the first 20 miles of racing...
... flying across long sections of double track and techytwisty stuff.
I love it.
The challenge is immense.
But, we must choose the wheels to follow carefully in the rotation or bad things can happen.
I had an early good spot until the guy two ahead missed a turn and cut hard jumping off a ledge, he was going to land on me, forcing me to a dead stop...
... took me 3 minutes of ripping to catch back up only to have him look back and say Pull through, I can't do all the work..
I could only laugh....
... oh, and blow by after I recovered.
Not a trustworthy wheel.
Next up was a 2' slab, edged by boulders, that would normally be easy to ride up, but not in a fast moving paceline...
... first guy makes it
second guy slows and makes it
third dude slower, makes it
fourth just slammed into the slab and unclipped
I was fifth in line and I hustled by...
... never seeing that lead 3 again, even after chasing hard for 5 minutes.
That fourth guy had no chance.
Took him 20ish minutes to catch me, he promptly apologized and introduced himself as Ty... I told him no big deal because in these long races allies are key.
Ty then sat on my wheel to recover, which was totally cool until we hit some very steep terrain and he came around and rode on by...
... I couldn't close the gap to him.
I was gapped out.
It was mile 26, nearly half way (it's actually 53 miles).
At this point I made a strategic decision, choosing to switch from Threshold on the climbs to Tempo the rest of the way back to the finish...
... and see if all those cats in front of me could sustain their pace.
I'd opted to race the Expert Open vs my age group, because my main objective for the day was a PR, it really wasn't a tough decision to switch to Tempo.
I was alone anyway.
Then, as often happens, I started to see jerseys ahead of me get closer.
Each rider I caught I encouraged to jump on and recover and help...
... but, they were done.
With 16 miles to go Ty comes back by me. He'd taken a wrong turn. This was a good thing. We could work together...
... see how allies can help?
We rotated along the flats 'till the Raptor Ridge return. I thought he'd drop me, but he was cooked, and allowed me to wiggle by...
... and snag a PR.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/chroma-cycling-raceday-bag™
Of course, I packed PR Lotion in the Lotions pocket of my RaceDay Bag.
As most of you know, the bags rarely go on sale.
But, since this is a new color and we have zero inventory at the moment you can use this promo code through the end of the month to save 15%.
The code is PREPARED
The bags can be personalized and will ship in about 3 weeks.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/chroma-cycling-raceday-bag™
---
161.8
6.5 hrs
16.8% b.f.
60.8% h2o
0 Strength Circuits
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
THERE ARE ONLY 2 KINDS OF RACERS IN THE WORLD
Oct 28, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF RACERS WORLD, and I've had conversations with both types today. Phone calls...
... can you spot the difference?
You ready for tomorrow?
Oh hellyeah, are you ready to see the back of my jersey?
... and...
I'm not sure what to do next week before the race. Should I ride hard a couple of more time? How much should I rest? Do I ned a few days off? What would you do?
Well, here's what I'd do...
I've had similar conversations, many times, with all kinds of racers. New and seasoned. Doesn't seem to matter...
... the closer that start line gets the more they settle in.
Fiercely Confident vs. Haltingly Tentative
Really it all comes down to one question...
... Am I prepared?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/chroma-cycling-raceday-bag™
That's the main benefit of the RaceDay Bag...
... feeling prepared gives confidence and save energy.
Check out these new colors.
As most of you know, the bags rarely go on sale.
But, since this is a new color and we have zero inventory at the moment you can use this promo code through the end of the month to save 15%.
The code is PREPARED
The bags can be personalized and will ship in about 3 weeks.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/chroma-cycling-raceday-bag™
---
159.4
7.5 hrs
17.8% b.f.
60.4% h2o
0 Strength Circuits
0 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
BIG AND SMALL RIDERS
Oct 27, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE BIG AND SMALL RIDERS, and all kinds in between. Where we fit on that scale largely determines how we will fare in competition...
... but, it's not all about the physics.
Sure,
- the large and powerful dominate MTB Downhill racing, and road time trialing
- the lithe and diminutive scoot upwards leaving all others in their jetstream
But it is always
- the big stars. visionaries and personalities at the top
- while small thinkers, dreamers and characters are at the bottom
Big,
Small,
or in between...
... something to think about as the year winds down.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Which is why I love having a monstrous cycling goal each year on my Giant RaceDay Calendar.
I prefer the biggest version to keep my vision front and center.
They ship free.
Happy to make one with your team graphics.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
159.6
7.5 hrs
18.2% b.f.
59.7% h2o
0 Strength Circuits
20 minutes recovery
80 minutes reading + Journaling
THE B RACE BLUES
Oct 26, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I HAVE A RACE THIS WEEKEND. Not an A race, a B race. Quite honestly, it might be a C race. Why go then? I dunno...
... except for the obvious.
- I'll see my pals
- Get out of town
- Ride trails I rarely ride
- Dress up in a costume for Halloween
- ... and the ol', it's already paid for.
The problem with B and C races is I never respect them.
Don't taper.
Don't prep too well.
Don't take it seriously at all.
Which leads to the other problem...
... everything potentially becomes a lot more difficult.
No prep.
No prosper.
Which leads to a lasting benefit as I wrap up the year...
... there's nothing like a good beat down to motivate through the winter.
We'll C what happens.
It's a 50-miler...
... gonna be needing these to products for sure.
Use yesterday's code PRme30%
Works on the Butt'r and the PR Lotion, you need to purchase at least 2 bottles to save 30%.
And definitely expires on Thursday, 10/27
---
160.1
6.5ish hrs
18% b.f.
59.9% h2o
1 Strength Rotation
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
HOW I'M IMPROVING MY PEDAL STROKE
Oct 25, 2022
by TODD BROWN
IF YOU'RE IN RACEDAY READY, you know about the 6 exercises I do for leg strength. They're all good, but the four weird ones...
... are rapidly improving my pedal stroke.
I didn't notice it at first, it took a few months to really feel the effects.
Why?
Frankly, I think I was so pathetically weak it took a while to get strong enough to notice a difference.
Here are the six exercises:
- Squat
- Box or Stair Jumps
- Nordic
- Reverse Nordic
- Heel Raise
- Toe Raise
The first two, I'm sure you know about and might have even tried. I'm sure they are helping...
... well, after months, I'm squatting a lot more.
Another weird thing is stair jumps are more explosive after the squats.
Anyway, I'm sure you know what a heel raise and a toe raise are. If you're like me, I completely neglected my lower leg. After steady practice my ankles are much more flexible and the top and bottom of my pedal stroke are fire better.
The Nordics are the strangest of all in terms of something I'd never done before. I'd done leg curls, but this is a whole other level...
... my hamstrings are firing.
It feels amazing.
The reverse Nordics are odd as well. I can't put my finger on exactly where they help with pedal stroke yet, but there is no doubt they are greatly improving my core strength.
I sent this video out to the RaceDay Ready crew, if you haven't seen it it's a quick tour of what I'm doing.
Click pic to check it out.
Still with me?
Good...
... because you might want to take advantage of this.
I like Chamois Butt'r... so does the area around my special purpose.
Use yesterday's code PRme30%
Works on the Butt'r and the PR Lotion
And definitely expires on Thursday, 10/27
---
159.4
8ish hrs
18.2% b.f.
59.7% h2o
2 Strength Rotation
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THIS IS HUMILIATING
Oct 24, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE VERY BEST MOTIVATORS is probably the one we all hate the most. It strikes right to the core of our egos, but can be...
... by far the key to our greatest success.
I'm not talking about a loss,
or a good whipping,
or goof we made.
This much more devastating...
... a complete humiliation.
The kind of thing that destroys our ego to the point we either quit or are...
... humbled enough to become teachable.
Then, we can build something new, and potentially much better than anything we had ever built before.
Until we reach that point, and I'm ohsoguilty of this...
... we stubbornly cling to old thinking.
We aren't ready to receive new information and help,
incorporate new methods of operation,
rise like a phoenix from defeated ash,
to soar like never before.
As the great David Goggins says, Embrace the suck!
Something else to embrace is this crazy offer on this insane product...
... which I will not race or train hard without applying.
This offer is only good through end of day 10/25.
No promo code needed, all you have to do is add 2 or more bottles to your order and you will save 33%.
---
161
8ish hrs
17.1% b.f.
60.5% h2o
1 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
TODD'S LAW
Oct 23, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ABOUT 60 YEARS AGO, the great Gordon Moore predicted silicon chips would decrease in size and price by 50% every 24 months. The critics said, No way!...
... the critics are still wrong..
If they same were true of my of my childhood fancy...
... today a new fleet of Schwinn Sting-rays would cost less than a penny.
It won't go on forever, but will TODD's Law.
Todd's Law states that much of what we "know" about aging is total bullony because most of what we "know" assumes...
... we won't keep pushing our limits.
That we'll give up.
Believe that bs,
that were old,
and useless
We may not go on forever, but we sure as helk...
... aren't gonna give a chainlink to the critics.
Ride on!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
When I'm pushing it hard I prefer the firm connection of these real leather, superlight race gloves...
... which come in a ton of colors.
And, it's Buy One Get One... no promo code need.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
163
8.2 hrs
16.9% b.f.
60.6% h2o
0 Strength Rotation
0 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
FACING MONSTERS
Oct 22, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WHAT IS IT THAT CALLS US TO DO THE THINGS WE DO? I could have slept in today. Gone for an easy spin along the coast. Instead, we met up...
... with the monsters from down south.
I'd coaxed TViddy and a friend to join me. They bailed as soon as the group turned towards the hills.
90 minutes and a million PRs later...
... I was shot out the back of a 2hr horror show.
That's what monsters do.
Crush us.
And, we like it.
But why?
- The distraction they provide to other real world monsters
- The satisfaction on the days we slay the beasts
- The illumination of our weakness
- The fascination with what's possible
I like to think it's a mix of the above that drives me, but the real fear...
... is it's a the distraction, I crave and need.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Which is why I love having a monstrous cycling goal each year on my Giant RaceDay Calendar.
I prefer the biggest version to keep my vision front and center.
They ship free.
Happy to make one with your team graphics.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
160.3
7.7 hrs
17.1% b.f.
60.5% h2o
2 Strength Circuits
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
WHERE DO I FIND MY CYCLING SECRETS?
Oct 21, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I LOVE DRAFTING OFF OF GIANTS. The broad shoulders, punishing power on the flats and rollers, pedaling is effortless when they're leading....
... is there anything better?
As the great Sir Isaac Newton said, If I've smashed a PR it's by drafting off of giants.
So who are some of the giants I follow?
Only one of the 7 is an actual cycling coach! because I have personally studied most of the latest and greatest already.
More importantly is how do I find time to digest their teachings?...
... every night, that 30 minutes of recovery I do.
All of them are alive and generous with their specific expertise and practices, except the last one. I came across Terry Laughlin when training for a few triathlons a while back.
His techniques revolutionized my swimming, and more applicably...
... improved my breathing under stress.
More than once I used swimming as a way to improve my breathing for high-altitude racing.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-co-2022-plush-towel-35-60-blue-splash
Which reminds me, not only do we make RaceDay Bags™ that are triathlon specific, we also super plush towels to match.
Yes, of course we can make them custom for your team.
Use promo code SPLASH
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-co-2022-plush-towel-35-60-blue-splash
---
162ish
7.5ish hrs
17% b.f.
60.3% h2o
1 lite RaceDay Ready™ Circuits
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
MY NORMAL KICKS ARSE
Oct 20, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WHEN I FIRST GOT ON A REAL ROAD BIKE, as an adult, I rode 6 miles. The next day, I borrowed it again, and rode 12. Within a week...
... I raced my first crit.
That's not normal.
What seemed insane to my college roommates quickly became...
... completely normal for me.
30 miles a day.
no prob.
125 on a Saturday.
ho hum.
2 hours on a trainer,
yawn.
But, my new normal is a completely different thing. It's taken my riding to a whole new level...
... and it's not the saddle time.
The biggest gains are doing the things my riding pals think are nuts.
Sound familiar?
They are only nuts, I think, because they are not normal.
But, check it out.
It is now normal for me to squat my body weight every day. Multiple times, multiple sets.
It's normal, it's not a strain.
I'm just a helluvalot stronger...
... like when 30 miles a day became normal.
Not a big deal.
But, a big deal when it comes to laying down the power.
What else that seemed insane is now normal?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
There are no secrets...
... unless you don't take the challenge.
I'm always adding to this body of knowledge.
It's free.
It's not normal.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
---
161.8
6ish hrs (heatwave, no a/c)
16.8% b.f.
60.7% h2o
2 RaceDay Ready™ Circuits
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
HOW I GOT 10X BETTER
Oct 19, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ABOUT 10 YEARS AGO, my oldest got the racing bug. It rekindled my desire to rip again. A lot has happened since then...
... but not all at once.
That's the funny thing, of course, because to an outsider it can look like overnight success.
That's not the way it really works.
Think about this, if you could buy one thing for yourself this year to make sure you were faster what would it be?
Doesn't have to require cash,
could be time
or discipline
or sacrifice
or time.
Yes, time is in there twice because I generally waste shift loads of time and that is certainly something I'm still working on.
Now, to that every year for 10 years and watch the improvements compound like interest.
As the great Ed Latimore says...
... Be so good they think you are cheating.
Side note: latest data says average American wastes 11.1 hours per day looking at screens.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
For me, that means gaining control of my calendar and having at least 1 event that is going to push me to a new level.
I prefer the biggest version to keep my vision front and center.
They ship free.
Happy to make one with your team graphics.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
160.3
7.7 hrs
17.1% b.f.
60.5% h2o
2 Strength Circuits
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
OUR unOFFICIAL WORLD CHAMPION
Oct 18, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THIS MIGHT HAVE BEEN THE YEAR we had a repeat winner at The unOFFICIAL Tuesday Morning World Championships. Not only didn't we have a repeat winner...
... the winner careened off course more than once.
Put that in your tubeless tires and smoke it.
It's the kind of thing that could bug a lesser racer. A newb, neverseenit laying waste to all comers, after losing chunks of road and time...
... while the rest of us are latched like chihuahuas on a charging bull.
It's actually worse.
Sir Luke is a Brit...
... barely rides on the right side of the road.
Though we all finished within a few seconds or minutes of the lead pack, few of us were in contention.
There's a big difference between race speed and ride speed.
Our ride speed was ho-hum as far as overall finishing time.
The race was won by
- The punishing pace Nick set up the first climb
- The daring stab David took on the bike path
- The constant attacks of Jorge and Michael
- The launch on The Wall by Eric
- The ferocious finish by Luke
All told, around 8 minutes of the 59 minutes required to cover 20 mi and 1800' of vert determined the winner...
... or 9ish minutes for Luke.
Yeah, that bugs me enough get fired up for next year...
... we're all coming for yer Red Coat!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
I sported next year's 20th Anniversary kit this morning.
I'll be making a special Winner's version for Luke.
You can use this code to save 20% on next year's kit: TMWC20TH
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
---
160.7
7 hrs
17.1% b.f.
60.5% h2o
2 lite Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
CONFRONTING MY FEARS
Oct 17, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WHEN IT COMES TO RACING, there are all kinds of fear to face. Which is why I recommend all aspiring racers to race as often as possible...
... because it's easy to waste our limited energy.
As the great Luke Skywalker said, Confronting fear is the destiny of a Jedi.
Ever feel this?
- Don't fit in
- Don't know anybody
- Don't know course
- Don't want to lose
- Don't want to stand out
- Don't want to mess up
- Aren't fast enough
- No teammates
- No leadout
- Not cool enough gear
- Never raced that far
- Treacherous terrain
- Too high of altitude
No need to give you ideas you don't have, so I'll stop...
... that's just a few of mine.
There are some of us who claim to never be afraid. As the great Yoda said...
... You will be.
Fear always brings to life what it is we are afraid of.
To have Jedi-like racing skills, we must confront our fears and slay them...
... by racing hard and often.
---
162.2
8.5 hrs
17.0% b.f.
60.6% h2o
1 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
I'M NOT THAT FAST
Oct 16, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THE FASTEST NONPRO I EVER RODE WITH, isn't fast anymore. He's slow now. I miss him pushing me...
... but, it doesn't bum me out.
What bums me out is when I hear someone say I'm not that fast.
Whatever that means.
Or, I can't ride that far,
be that lite,
sleep that much,
lift that often,
take time to journal and read...
... most of us can do all of the above.
And, still have a balanced life.
The correct answer is...
... I don't care enough.
All that might be true...
... but, you're almost certainly fast enough.
Normally, I'd call that a complete post, but I'm going to add a few applicable thoughts inspired by yesterday's most excellent ride.
LoveWatts and I had planned to meet up at 7am and hit the trails at a good pace. At 9pm, the night before I was about to text him...
Bro, I'm gonna sleep in.
But, he beat me to it.
I'm going to sleep in with my beautiful wife.
Haha!
Perfect.
Each of us slept in. Later, we lazily poached some hero dirt.
Thinking about it, I realized how much of a grind training had become.
It shouldn't be like that.
Everybody needs an offseason, traditionally that is now for me.
It doesn't mean off the bike
off the intensity
off the diet
off plan...
... it does mean it's
okay to not care,
be slower,
freer.
Oh, and offseason I've found should happen throughout the year. I had my best summer ever after heading to Mexico for a week of surf, sand and tacos in April.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-travel-bags
For offseason, anyseason travel we have a brand new bag...
... the Travel Bag.
With handy pockets set up for organization and ease when traveling.
1. TOILETRIES/TOWEL/LIGHT JACKET
2. TOPS
3. BOTTOMS
4. UNDERWEAR/SLEEP AIDS/HEADWEAR
5. SHOES ON THE RIGHT SIDE
6. DIRTY CLOTHES ON THE LEFT SIDE
7. BOOKS/LAPTOP/DEVICES ON THE BOTTOM
8. SLEEVE FOR WATERBOTTLES
Use promo code TRAVEL to save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-travel-bags
---
161.5
8.5 hrs
17.2% b.f.
60.5% h2o
1 lite Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
40 minutes reading + Journaling
DRESSING FOR SHREDDING
Oct 15, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WINTER IS A COMING. Even here, along the coast it gets cold. The humidity gets right into your bones...
... it's so tempting to overbundle up.
But, I don't do that any more and sometimes it gets a reaction.
Aren't you going to freeze?
(I love it that she still worries.)
No, not gonna freeze. I dress for the riiiiide...
... not the rollout.
I've seen many a rookie kitted up for a polar express only to wonder where to stash the parka and mittens 20 minutes into the ride.
Been there done that?
Hopefully not lately.
I get it.
It's so tempting.
First, we have to escape the grips of our covers.
Then strip and put on cold lycra.
Stumble to the garage.
Cold helmet.
Cold shoes.
Cold gloves.
Wo. Wo. Wo. WO!
You don't do that last part do ya? Hellmet no!... the lid, shoes and gloves are in the house... and even if you're as chincy as me with the thermostat set low, it's still a lot warmer than the gair-auge.
Sometimes, when she's not looking, the bike is even in the house.
Yep.
Anyway, it takes practice and guts to dress for the ride vs the rollout.
Part of my practice is the Weather Channel app, the hourly updates for the coldest parts of the ride I plan to hit...
... the guts is just toughing out the first 5-10 minutes.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
Off the bike, I like to keep warm with this stylish beanie.
We have these available in 4 colors,
and they ship free.
$20, delivered to you.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
---
161.1
7.5 hrs
17.1% b.f.
60.5% h2o
1 lite Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
80 minutes reading + Journaling
YOU'LL NEVER LOSE AGAIN
Oct 14, 2022
by TODD BROWN
MY FRIEND'S LICENSE PLATE IS EPIC. It spells out his mantra, and something he's ingrained into everyone he works with, even his wife and kids...
... it's NVR DNF.
Never Do Not Finish.
As long as we finish the race, we will always win.
Always.
Maybe not the top of the podium,
Or a PR shattering time.
But, the lessons we learn,
and strength we develop,
through perseverance,
will always lead to,
winning.
Or, as the great Jacob Riis said
When nothing seems to help, I go and look at a stonecutter hammering away at his rock perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred and first blow it will split in two...
... and I know it was not that blow that did it, but all that had gone before.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-over-koms-supertech-t
That's the crazy thing about PRs...
... the more I hammer on cracking my own PRs, the more likely I am to hammer the competition.
Use this code: TODDSFAVET
to save 20%...
... this code won't last forever.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-over-koms-supertech-t
---
159.9
8 hrs
17.8% b.f.
60.0% h2o
1 lite Strength Rotation
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
MYTHINFORMATION
Oct 13, 2022
by TODD BROWN
CONTINUING FROM YESTERDAY'S ACKNOWLEDGEMENT of how easy it is to get fast these day, I got to thinking how often we buy into...
... massive mythinformation.
And, what to do about it.
Just think about it...
- Soda is healthy - early 1900s
- Cigarets are good for us - '50's
- Slapping fat-free on everything - 90's
- "Smart" phones make us more productive - 00's
But, the thing that is really bugging me now is...
... you can't put on muscle after a certain age.
I've found that to be utter nonsense.
It's right up there with the idea we should give up on being active as we get older.
Look at the picture above.
The evidence is in.
Get going.
Now...
... and keep going 'til we're 6' under.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-over-koms-supertech-t
Now, more than ever, I'm chasing PRs.
When I'm doing my strength rotations I love wearing the new Supertech T.
Made with the same incredible, Italian fabric we use on our jerseys.
Use this code: TODDSFAVET
to save 20%...
... this code won't last forever.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-over-koms-supertech-t
---
161.3
8 hrs
17.7% b.f.
60.1% h2o
1 Strength Rotation
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
IT'S TOO EASY TO GET FAST
Oct 12, 2022
by TODD BROWN
IT'S TOO EASY TO GET FAST NOW, and it bothers me. Before the interwebs, before Eddie B, there was really only one piece of top secret training advice which came from the great Eddie Merckx...
... Piles of miles.
Who the heck knows how that managed to make it to my little college town in the middle of nowhere.
Now look at us.
We can dive into...
YouTube's myriad free tutorials
Instagram's briefs
Twitter's tweets and links
Amazon's hundreds of books
Podcasts that go deep into every aspect of performance
Plus, the coaching industry pioneered and legitimized by Chris Carmichael, spawning thousands of quality coaches.
And don't forget, the many media companies broadcasting all the major and many of the minor races with quality, entertaining and educating commentators.
It's become too darn easy to get fast...
... and I love it!
After decades of racing and riding, It's crazy to think of all that...
... I have learned and implemented in the last 3 years.
There is no end in site, and no reason not to radically improve.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
The 10-Week Challenge just keeps getting better and better.
I'm adding to that knowledge and updating things all the time.
In the next couple of weeks I'll start testing out a new piece of equipment.
We had a saying in our fraternity...
... there's always a better way.
Keep Challenging Yourself
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
---
161.9
7.5 hrs
16.8% b.f.
60.7% h2o
3 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
HARD TIMES ARE BEHIND US
Oct 11, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I HAD DINNER TONIGHT WITH MY MTB OGs. Let me just give you a taste of the shenanigans we we're up to...
... back when things were hard.
Not those things.
The suspensions and tires and materials we used.
Think of a 35 lb bike made with galvanized steel plumbing pipe,
skinny tires pumped up to 60 lbs to avoid pinching,
bars as wide as your shoulders,
and no chamois.
We didn't care.
We didn't know better.
There was nothing better than finding a new stream of dirt that cut across a perilous hillside with some logs and giant boulders...
... and riding it over and over till it was mastered.
Then, and only then, would we invite the rest of the crew out for a ride and pretend to discover said new trail.
Never seen this before.
Let's check it out
Oh, shift!
That's the best entertainment I ever had.
... making it look easy, while the others ghost rode their bikes off 8' drops.
It wasn't one-sided.
Everyone had a just discovered, must ride trail,
everyone came home bloodied and bruised,
bikes broken...
... huge smiles.
Stupid?
Yeah.
Bonded for life?
Yeah.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
A lot of times we didn't wear helmets...
... a beanie would have offered better protection.
We have these available in 4 colors,
and they ship free.
$20, delivered to you.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
---
163.9
7 hrs
17% b.f.
60.6% h2o
2 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
I GUESS I HAVE A BAD REPUTATION
Oct 10, 2022
by TODD BROWN
IT'S FUNNY HOW MANY PEOPLE I INVITE TO RIDE WITH ME who turn me down. There are two main reasons...
... one of them is legit.
The most common reason comes from people who never ride with me, are newer to the sport and who are certain I'm way too fast.
But, let's just take a look at a typical week and see if this group is justified.
Typical week for me is 2 hard days and 3-4 ez daze.
They are so certain, Your easy days are too hard for me, they won't even join me for jaunt around down. The best part is, when they do...
... they halfwheel and wanna drag race the entire time.
Meanwhile, I'm trying to have a casual conversation and knock out some recovery Zone 1 miles or lay down some Zone 2 base.
When they do join, if I can get 'em to behave, we end up having a great ride getting to know each other better. Occasionally, this type of rider will get sucked into my evil ways and venture out on a hard ride...
... and wind up shellacking me over time.
I'm down with that most of the time, except for when they get into the second group that turns me down for a ride...
... the SOBs that are too fast, and unwilling to let The Old Diesel tag along.
Like all bad reputations...
... what comes around goes around.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
One of the fun things I get to do is deliver on a customer's suggestion, like JIm L's...
Can you make me a calendar that is a little smaller than the Giant size?
Sure.
So, we did that, then for fun I added it as an option...
... and turns other people like that size and are purchasing it as well.
Got any ideas?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
162.6
7.6hrs
16.5% b.f.
61% h2o
1 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
PEOPLE ARE WATCHING US
Oct 09, 2022
by TODD BROWN
AT A LARGE FAMILY GATHERING TODAY I was stalked. Two different guys separately pulled me aside and started grilling me...
... really, they rescued me.
Rather than being my awkward and introverted self, we got down to the nittygritty of training and riding and fall colors and local roads and do you know so and so's...
... because they'd heard what I'd been up to this past summer.
What they wanted to know is what can they do to be better on the bike. Same thing I'm always wanting to know. We checked out of the family chitchat and it made for a fun afternoon.
It got me thinking...
... about Elvis Costello's What's So Funny About Peace Love and Understanding?
As I walk through this wicked world
Searchin' for light in the darnkess of insantiy
I ask myself, is all hope lost?
...
So where are the strong?
And who are the trusted?
And where is the harmony?
People are watching us, yes, they wanna be fit and fast...
... but, really, we all want to know who we can trust and where we can find harmony.
Too much for a cycling blog post?
Maybe.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
But, it's definitely woven into the fabric of being RaceDay Ready™.
When you take the challenge, you'll receive daily emails for the first 10ish days... and yes, we cover more than lycra and sugar water.
I'll be detailing exactly what I'm doing to shatter PRs and ride faster than I ever thought was possible.
After that, I add an email any time I think I've found a breakthrough that needs to be shared.
It's free.
Try it.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
---
161.6
7.8hrs
17.5% b.f.
60.2% h2o
0 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME
Oct 08, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I MADE A BIG MISTAKE TODAY, one I hope you'll avoid. The consequences could have been lifechanging...
... I got lucky.
85 miles into my ride, including a blistering 90 minutes with the local hot shots, I turned onto a very lightly traveled bike trail.
It's somewhat skinny.
Poorly maintained.
Very twisty.
It's also up and down some steep pitches, and it's nice to carry momentum...
... which is what I was doing.
On a blind turn, my innervoice yelling Don't cross that line...
... I just couldn't resist.
My speed was high, my trajectory perfect, and c'mon...
... nobody is ever out here.
But, there he was.
A surfer and board on an ebike.
Me, 10" into the his side of the narrow trail...
... about 30mph.
Shifffffffft!
He turned right,
I clamped on the brakes,
Rear end locked and I counter steered,
The curb to my right was coming up too fast,
No longer skidding, leaning hard left away from the gutter,
I slid in for a relatively soft landing in the dry and clumpy dirt.
A cool and caring kid, he turned around.
Hey man, you okay?
Yeah, I think so. How fast were you going?
Not that fast, you were on the wrong side.
I know, I'm sorry.
No worries.
I've ridden that trail manymanymany times, and always been respectful of the blind turns no matter how much I wanted to coast up the next steep pitch.
Not today.
I was greedy.
And veryveryvery fortunate.
Another, of 1000s, lesson learned.
- Obey the innervoice
- Never trust a blind turn
- Neverever cross that line
Phew!
How was your ride?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
I was so very grateful I had on my superlight fullfinger race gloves...
... even in 80 degree weather, my hands are cool and protected.
We have lot of colors in stock.
And, it's Buy One Get One... no promo code need.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
162
7.2 hrs
16.9% b.f.
60.7% h2o
0 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
SHIFT JUST TAKES TIME
Oct 06, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THIS MORNING WAS ONE OF THE BEST DAYS I'VE HAD on my paddle board, and it reminded me of something I often forget...
... especially when with newer riders.
I harkened back to the crusty crank I met a million years ago at the local bike shop, when I was just starting out, full of enthusiasm...
... It takes 3 years to know what kind of racer you are!
Today, the waves were decent size, the water glassy, the crowd small...
... and I caught a bunch of fun rides.
Sure enough, it took me 3 years to do that.
To unlearn prone surfing, figure out how to paddle and balance standing up, get the right size board and trim my paddle height to match my body and style, find the right beach break, learn the best tides...
... it just takes time.
Sound familiar?
Learn how to pedal properly, figure out how to handle the bike, get a pro bike fit and top notch bike, find the races that suit us, train with the best riders...
... it's worth it, if you want to master something.
Time + Effort = Excellence
We can reduce the time via good coaching and caring mentors...
... sometimes I forget that too.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
It took me years to figure this out, are you ready for the challenge?
It's awesome, and free.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
162,2 lbs
16.9%
60.7%
8 hrs
3 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE CULTURE AND REPUTATION REVOLUTION
Oct 05, 2022
by TODD BROWN
AROUND THESE PARTS there are long standing group rides. Some have been going for nearly 70 years and are named after streets that no longer exist...
... but the culture continues.
Isn't that amazing!
Wanna know how it works? Apply to a club you are forming? Business you are starting?
I was thinking about this today on spin down to meet the Swami's Wednesday Worlds, a ride I discovered back in '86 while living in San Diego.
The guys that put it together were the best racers in the county.
Road racers like the legendary Olympian John Howard and coach Arnie Baker.
The inventors of triathlon: Scott Tinley, Scott Molina, Mark Allen.
They're long gone from the scene.
But, the tone they set continues to blast up and down the coast every Wednesday 40 years later.
They built a culture of ripping each others legs off.
If you couldn't keep up, too bad.
Get better.
That culture created a reputation that expanded throughout Southern California. If you wanted to test yourself, get down to Swami's Wednesday or Saturday ride.
Which is what I was doing this morning.
A reputation like that becomes a huge magnet for kindred and fierce spirits. As more people joined in...
... the culture got stronger.
That's a virtuous revolution:
- Strong, defined culture
- Creates reputation beyond the core group
- Brining in more participants
- Creating a stronger culture.
It starts with culture.
It's maintained with consistency.
For group rides,
that means starting at the same time, at the same place,
and having rules
like waiting for the dropped or not waiting,
riding an insane pace or only recovery.
I've applied, and continue to apply, those principles starting my own group rides, raising our family, running a business.
Just another lesson I learned riding my bike.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
If you're into learning stuff, check the RaceDay Ready Challenge
It's awesome, and free.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
161.6 lbs
17.8%
60%
7ish hrs
3 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
TELL ME ALL YOUR THOUGHTS ON FOOD
Oct 04, 2022
by TODD BROWN
FOOD, MAN I LOVE GOOD FOOD. On the bike, off the bike, wherever and whenever, if it's good count me in. But, I always struggle with...
... how much and how often.
On the way home for a legripping ride today I was feeling great, and I think it's for two reasons:
- I got to bed early enough to get the min. 7 hours of sleep (5am wake up)
- I ate a lot and often
So how much food to fuel 60 miles, 4700' of vert and an average pace of 19mph?
- 2 bottles with 240 calories (Skratch: 2 scoops of Hydration and 2 of Superfuel
- 2 Honey Stinger Waffles
That's 800 calories.
The warm up is a pretty easy 50ish minutes of zone 1 and 2, 1000' of vert.
The ride, well, it can be brutal.
Often, I'll cruise the 27 miles home because I'm smoked. But, today was a test and it showed that eating a lot more allows me to keep a good pace for the entire distance.
Truth is, I think I should have eaten the 3rd waffle in my pocket.
Shooting for 400 cal/hour when the pace is high.
What about off the bike?
A few do's and don'ts
- Don't get hungry
- Do eat fewer, bigger meals
- Fast occasionally
- Do eat more protein
- Do eat or pound a recovery drink right after
That's it for now.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
For a recovery drink, I'm liking 3 scoops of the chocolate Skratch.
Use promo code BESTTHINGS to save 25%.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
---
161.8 lbs
17.7%
60%
7ish hrs
1 strength rotation
10 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
A HARD RACE IS GOOD TO FIND
Oct 03, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WELL, I WENT AND DID IT. I signed up for the Belgian Waffle Ride. I now have 6 months to figure out how to race a gravel bike for 8 hours over 130 miles and 11,000' of vert ...
... my palms are sweating.
There is so much power to found in a hard race.
1 Deadline X Insane Challenges X Massive Distance = Become Better
BWR has a reputation of humiliating the toughest racers.
The Waffle version.
I did the Wafer in Utah last year. Had a blast. Finished 5th overall, but the promoter doesn't care about the Wafer. Rightly so. It's about half the distance, with the hardest features missing...
... he knows forcing us to our limits will give us the biggest rewards.
Why am I doing the Waffle version?
- For the challenge
- To find out what's possible
- To bump gloves with my fellow soul riders
I say Soul Riders because only a handful harbor any fantasies about winning...
... the rest of us are in for the adventure.
131.7-miles / 212-Kilometers
~11,000 feet of climbing
10 categorized climbs
Steepest grade of 23%
19 off-road sectors / 50-miles worth
3 KOM Sectors
3 KOS Sectors
3 KOD Sectors
9 Feed Zones
Water crossings
Yeah, it'll be kinda hard.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Have you started to fill out your Giant RaceDay Calendar™...
... which has the week starting on Monday, and Saturday and Sunday at end of week because that's how racers view their weeks.
You know we can make these in your team colors, just go here.
The calendar ships free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
162.4 lbs
17.5%
60.2%
8 hrs
2 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE BEST THING I'VE EVER DONE ON A BIKE
Oct 02, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I'VE DONE A LOT OF THINGS ON A BIKE, some are pretty cool, but one stands above the all...
... and it never gets old.
I starts with getting a friend out on a ride,
could be a sibling, neighbor, child, parent, lover.
Next is teaching them everything I know. Not everything there is to know, but everything know.
Finally, and the best part, is when that friends goes far beyond anywhere I've been: faster, further, and much more accomplished.
Nothing better.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
One thing is getting them up to speed on nutrition.
Use promo code BESTTHINGS to save 25%.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
---
162.2 lbs
17.8%
60.2%
8.5 hrs
0 strength rotation
0 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
A WEIRD WEIGHTLOSS BREAKTHROUGH
Oct 01, 2022
by TODD BROWN
HONESTLY, I THINK THIS WHOLE WEIRD BREAKTHROUGH is the result of watching Remco dominate the Vuelta. At 5'5" and 140 lbs, he is a thick, powerful muscle vs most waifs at the top. What does that have to do with the jumbo gentleman at the concert last night...
... who was sitting on a low wall and kept standing?
Up down,
up down.
Essentially, Jumbo Gent was doing squats.
I might call them air squats, but this dude was heavy. I was once a lot heavier, not this heavy, but I get it.
While Stevie Nicks belted Stop Dragging My Hear Around, I imagined doing squats all day with 50 or 75 or 100 lbs on my back...
... or more.
My legs would be cooked.
But, they weren't ever cooked back then, and near as I could tell JG wasn't gonna wake up this morning regretting a massive squat day either.
Suddenly, my own practice of doing daily squats with weight might made a lot more sense. The daily practice builds muscle, doesn't take but a few minutes...
... and results in more strength.
Standing on my fancy Garmin scale this morning, I noted I am up a few pounds since August, which was when I got back into my strength routines, but that my percentage of body fat has remained steady.
In fact, it's down a bit.
Tying it all together, what if instead of focusing on weighing less...
... we shifted our goal to lowering our percentage of body fat?
Remcos in the making?
It sure puts food choices in an entirely different light,
along with regular strength training.
Will this spike my sugar and convert to fat?
Does this contain protein?
Do a quick set.
Make time.
Something to think about as we head into the heavy season of candy, turkey and glutony...
... we become what we eat, and do.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
No matter how sexy we get, it's still a good idea to cover up when changing...
... which is why we have the awesome changing poncho.
Get an InStock design...
... or one in your team colors.
Use promo code LEAN to save 20% on InStock designs.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
---
162 lbs
17.5%
60.2%
8 hrs
1 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
I CAN'T STOP THINKING ABOUT KIPCHOGE
Sep 30, 2022
by TODD BROWN
DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THE KENYAN SHUFFLE? It's not a dance move, and has nothing to do with cycling...
... but, everything to do with training.
If you watch the shuffle here you'll see the fastest runners in the world shuffling, barely running, for much of their training.
Need validation?
Euclid Kipchoge is without question the king of marathon...
... the only person to ever run a marathon under 2 hours.
You can read about the intensity of his training here in this detailed and wellwritten article.
For the gazillionth time.
... you can't ride hard enough, if most of your riding isn't easy enough.
Ride easy,
Ride hard,
Race FAST!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Most of the time, my hard days are Tuesday and Saturday, and I'll often block out on The Giant RaceDay Calendar™...
... which has the week starting on Monday, and Saturday and Sunday at end of week because that's how racers view their weeks.
You know we can make these in your team colors, just go here.
The calendar ships free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
162 lbs
17.5%
60.2%
8 hrs
1 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
THE BEST LEGAL PERFORMANCE ENHANCER
Sep 29, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY I'VE FOUND to achieve maximum performance. It's not a drug, or a training regimen, or food strategy, or more rest, or anything else you can think of...
... but, oh boy!, does it work.
It's more than a deadline, more than vengeance.
For me, it's all the above and it starts working the moment I throw down some cash...
... and register for a race.
Not just any race.
An A race.
That's when all of the above, and a whole bunch more, combines into what is essentially...
... the best legal performance enhancer available.
Which is why when it comes to A races I like
- At least 1 per year
- No more than 3 per year
For me, I've gotta have at least 1 per year to keep my overall fitness and no more than 3 to keep from burning out.
This year, it was two A events. Leadville and the SurfNSummit. One down, one to go.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
I can hardly wait to pick one or two or three out for next year...
... and start building around them on The Giant RaceDay Calendar™.
How about you?
Got plans yet?
The calendar ships free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
161.4 lbs
17.2%
60.4%
8 hrs
1 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS I'VE READ ON BIKE HANDLING
Sep 28, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THE BEST BOOK I EVER READ ON BIKE HANDLING, was a book on archery, written 74 years go, by a German, in Japan...
... just after WWII.
How can that be?
What, a German doing business in Japan a couple of years after the big one?
Or, a book on archery teaching bike handling?
Well, I'll tell you as briefly as I dare.
The German, was young and fit, and very proficient at using a compound bow...
... you know, the kind that have all the leverage to make pulling back easy.
He went to shoot with old monks, seemingly too old and feeble to shoot at all...
... let alone a massive long bow.
How could these small, ancient men pull back a bow so easily and shoot with such accuracy...
... when he could barely pull a long bow back at all.
The answer lay in the muscles used...
... and being relaxed.
For example, the triceps of the arm pulling back was loose and flaccid. Not tense. Not being used.
The monks engaged only the muscles necessary to pull back the bow...
... every other muscle was at rest.
What does that have to do with bike handling?
Everything.
What does it take to slow your bike?
Two fingers.
To hold your handle bars?
Two hands.
To pedal seated?
Legs, butt, core.
It took me a long time to learn to stay relaxed in all conditions...
to hold onto the bars with my hands while my arms are loose and relaxed,
to brake with 1 finger on each lever, without clinching every other muscle,
to pedal seated, uphill, while my upper body is calm,
to breathe easy vs holding my breath if it got scary,
... you feel me?
Can't say enough about the book. I've read it may times over the years. It is short, concise, beautiful...
... and taught me ton about holding onto things.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
Ripping the local trails today, while holding on loosely to the bars...
... I realized my cleat needed adjusting.
Thankfully, I had a minitool stored in my Mini RaceDay Bag™.
You'd never know it though because this little bag is made from innertube and keeps everything...
... snug and quiet.
Use promo code ZEN to save 20%.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
---
1614 lbs
17.4%
60.4%
8 hrs
2 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
I GOTTA STOP SMOKIN'
Sep 27, 2022
by TODD BROWN
AFTER GETTING WHACKED BY THE SHOWOFFS on our local group ride, I limped home. Tail between my bibs. Work was impossible. I took a phone call...
... a raspy, tired smoker.
That's what happens when you gasp and gulp air as quickly as possible...
... you sound like you been smokin'.
I was smoked.
It wasn't that the overall speed was outrageous.
Didn't even get one single PR.
The Old Diesel was smoked by showoffs relentlessly attacking...
Attack
Attack
Attack
... and attack some more.
The problem is, I love that shift...
... ain't quitting the habit any time soon.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tmwc
It was especially saucy today because the word is out...
... our unOFFICIAL world championships is going down in 3 week.
If you're local, come join us for a quick morning smoke.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tmwc
161.6 lbs
17.1%
60.2%
7 hrs
1 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY I'M RIDING LONGER RIDES
Sep 26, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ARE YOU ADDICTED TO GLASS? Is it tough to tear away from the computer screen, the phone, the watch, the TV...
... do you have a problem?
I do.
And, working from home hasn't helped.
It's worse.
The antidote, for me, is outside.
- on the bike
- in the water
- on the sand
Anything to break my addiction.
There are a few tricks to take advantage of this increased time.
1. Nevereverever bring headphones. Bring the phone if you must. But, only to take pics and pay for things.
2. Bring a friend. It's good to be physically connected for our social lives and having a friend to talk to will ensures I keep the pace conversational.
3. Keep the pace easy. Zone 1, Zone 2. This allows me to soak up my surroundings, to notice all the beauty in the real world.
And for Pete's sake (poor Pete), train outside as much as possible...
... on your bike,
... in the position you race in.
Consider this shameful admission a public service announcement. If not for you...
... for some poor, lost and drifting soul like me.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-marble-gear
When you go out, go out in style... PS I goofed, see below.
If you like it here's a promo code to save 20%, RETAILRACERS ...
... I goofed on the code the other day, it works now.
Expires 9/30.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-marble-gear
---
161.6
7 hrs
2 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
80 minutes reading + Journaling
THE POWER OF A GOOD GRUDGE
Sep 25, 2022
by TODD BROWN
FEW THINGS ARE AS POWERFUL AS FEELING SLIGHTED. All great coaches know this, so do the bad ones...
... grudges are powerful.
How do us racers harness that?
Just watch Remco Evenepoel. You think he didn't have payback on his mind at the Vuelta...
... or today at the World's?
I've harbored my own grudges and gained surprising power.
Most, nearly all, are manufactured and made up nonsense. Stories I tell myself of being dissed by so and so...
... that just fire me up.
But, that's the danger with a grudge.
We do get fired up, and in the heat of the moment we say and do things we end up regretting.
Real grudges are for losers.
They are silent killers, cancers festering and ultimate destroying our powers and abilities to perform at all levels.
Fake grudges are for winners.
Fun stories we make up and...
... tack on the bulletin boards of our minds.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
I don't put on boxing gloves...
... but, I do love these superlight race gloves
We have lot of colors in stock.
And, it's Buy One Get One... no promo code need.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
161.6
8 hrs
0 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
RIPPING ON A BIKE WITH NO NAME
Sep 24, 2022
by TODD BROWN
IS THE HAYDAY OF RACE TEAMS GONE? Sometimes I wonder. Used to be you showed up to a group ride and the one weirdo wore off the rack clothing, while the cool cats...
... sported their team colors.
Not any more.
The hitters on today's ride were not only riding in retail clothes, but they were ripping it up, and here's the problem...
... you can't tell who's f'real.
And it gets worse.
Not only is everybody incognito...
... most of these demons don't even race.
So,
- no team colors
- no resume
- no bs
I like it,
and I don't like it.
I like seeing fresh colors and palettes,
I don't like not knowing who's gonna make it hurt.
After a few miles, things sorted out and it was easy to spot the players. But, how to identify them if not by team kit? I resorted to
- Beard
- Too tall
- Skinny tall
- Young asian
- Hairy blond kid
- Matchy couple
- ... and Hulk
Got a better idea?
Do you like the trend?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-marble-gear
How about this look?
If you like it here's a promo code to save 20%, RETAILRACERS ...
... code will expire Sunday, 9/25 at midnight.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-marble-gear
---
160.7
7 hrs
0 Strength Rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
FAKE NEWS YOU CAN TRUST
Sep 23, 2022
by TODD BROWN
PERSONALLY, I LOVE FAKE NEWS. And, I love creating fake news. It's just so dang fun...
... to fake people out.
Let me give you an example of the kind of diabolical nonsense I'm capable of.
First, there's the immediate and sensational news.
This I like during a race, a road race, where the action is shoulder to shoulder. We can hear each other breathing, see how we're holding up. This is a perfect time for some fake news like:
- Faking I'm tire, gassed, can't pull through... when I'm feeling strong like bull.
- Faking I'm fresh, crazy fit... when I'm barely hanging on.
Then, there's the long game.
The great Bobby Fisher did something for 10 years before battling the Russians in chess. Don't hold me to it, but it was something like playing left handed and then all of the sudden playing right handed. It was so outrageous, if that was it, that it through them off their game and he became World Champion.
Here are a few I've pulled over the years:
- Purposely losing or getting dropped in races and rides leading up to the A race.
- Secretly training and not posting online.
- Training and racing on a markedly slower bike, then I race on.
Of course, that was long ago.
I'd never do that now.
But, you might...
... it's the kinda thing that can score a win, when brute force isn't enough.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
I'm more into PRs...
... no need to worry about me
Use this code: TODDSFAVET
to save 20%...
... this code won't last forever.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
---
161ish
7 hrs
1 Strength Rotation
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
ONE THING I WISH I WOULD HAVE STARTED SOONER
Sep 22, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE THAT TELL ME THEY ARE GOING TO START riding or lifting or the 10-Week Challenge is astounding to me, because they almost always have a reason to postpone. I get it, there is a lot to do in life, but...
... there is one thing I wish I would have started a lot sooner.
Because it gives huge benefits and takes little time, when done correctly.
- Posture
- Strength
- Confidence
- Ankle mobility
- and more
Strength work is gold.
And yeah, my ankles are firing again.
I notice a lot more action in my ankles when pedaling, and walking. It happened a few weeks after I added calf raises and it's cousin toe raises. All of the sudden, I'm pedaling like a kid again...
... especially out of the saddle.
There are all kinds of reasons to start a strength routine NOW...
... but, the biggest is you're gonna wish you started sooner.
I do.
If you don't know where to start, take my 10-Week Challenge. I layout a solid routine anybody can get going on...
... you can do anything for 10-weeks.
Plus, you probably establish new, lifechanging habits.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
It's free.
Get going!
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
161 lbs
17.3%
60.4%
7.7 hrs
3 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE 100' RULE
Sep 21, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A LOT OF WAYS TO CALCULATE HOW TOUGH A RIDE IS compared to other rides. One of my favorites is the one I use to determine if it was flat, rolling, climbing day, or worse...
... horrendous and hillacious amount of vert.
Sometimes, some routes seem really climby and they're not.
Other days, it feels like all we did was climb and we didn't.
I was thinking about my rule while riding my topsecret XC training loop - you can check it on Strava.
Here's my rule:
- 100'/mile or more is a climbing route/course.
Anything less, is rolling or flat.
I logged 19ish miles and 3600ish feet of vert this afternoon...
... almost 2x my rule.
Why is that important?
Because when I am looking at an upcoming race or ride or route, I can quickly see the amount of vert per mile and then get an idea of how rough it's gonna be it's always good to drill deeper and...
... see if the climbs are stacked or spread out.
But, that's my rule.
Check out your next couple of rides or your last couple.
Watch that ratio.
Let me know if you have a different rule.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
I'll use it as I start to look at next year's events I'm considering.
Yep, it's time for a new Giant Wall Callendar...
... so I can see everything all at once.
With Saturday and Sunday at the end of week...
... to grasp the race weekends.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
160.9 lbs
17.5%
60.2%
8 hrs
2 strength rotation
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
HOW TO LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD
Sep 20, 2022
by TODD BROWN
HEY, WE SHOULD STOP AND GET A BREAKFAST CONE. For sure. I'm jonesing for a Vanilla Bacon or a Chorizo Chocolate...
... such is the conversation as we return from our early morning leg ripper.
We didn't get the ice cream cones.
They don't exist, yet.
But, it got me thinking of how we take our loads off...
... because nobody can see what we are really carrying up the climbs.
- One young feller has 6 kids, a serious volunteer commitment and a bigboy corporate lawyer job.
- Another is struggling to keep his financial head above water.
- Then there's the cat who has it all together, but who's bestie is in a serious battle with cancer.
Sometimes that wheelsucking...
... is just lifesucking.
Which is why we keep our leg ripping rides regular, hard, and mostly social.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
We don't have secret handshakes, but we do have some snappy gloves with matching socks.
Which you can buy one pair, and get the second pair free.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
161.1 lbs
17.5%
60.2%
7 hrs
1 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling
THIS ONE THING WILL KILL YOUR TRAINING PLANS
Sep 19, 2022
by TODD BROWN
TOMORROW I HAVE A HARD TRAINING RIDE PLANNED. It's already kinda bugging me, to the point I'm already thinking of excuses to put it off...
... so I'll have to make one very important decision.
A yes, and everything will fall into place and be easy.
A no, will be even easier.
A maybe...
When it's time to go, all I really need to do is put on my HR monitor...
... after that,
bibs
jersey
socks
shoes
gloves
helmet
glasses
... go on easy, and I'm out the door.
Once, I'm out the door...
... it's on!
If it's a no, I can go back to bed.
If it's a maybe,
if I'm foggy,
If I'm slow...
the time will pass,
I'll miss the workout,
and won't be able to go back to sleep.
Yes is good.
No is kinda good.
Maybe is definitely death.
To make it easier, I'll lay all my gear out and ready to go before I go to sleep...
... HR monitor, on top.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
Which means my Mini RaceDay Bag™ will be on my road bike, ready to go...
- a nozzle
- 2 cannisters
- a mini tool
- dynaplug darts
Use promo code HATELOVE to save 20% on the bag and darts.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
---
160. lbs
17.7%
60%
8 hrs
2 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling
I HATE RACING. I LOVE RACING.
Sep 18, 2022
by TODD BROWN
RACING FOR ME IS A LOVEHATE RELATIONSHIP. I hate racing, everything about it. I love racing...
... everything about it.
I hate racing because it constrains my time
I love racing because there's a deadline.
I hate what competing brings out in me,
I love what competition brings out in me.
I hate feeling I could have done better.
I love knowing I left it all on the course.
I hate saying no to cake,
I love the feeling of a healthy body.
I hate paying to race,
I love the commitment when I lay down the cash.
I hate going to bed early,
I love waking up early to get it all done.
I hate the expense of a race bike,
I love the precise feeling of a race bike.
I hate lifting weights,
I love feeling strong.
I hate mechanical failure,
I love that I can now fix most racing mechanicals quickly.
I hate racers who take it seriously,
I love racers who take it seriously and show me what's possible.
I hate losing,
I love learning from my losses.
and...
I hate admitting all this,
I love that you can relate to most (all?) of it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
Racing or not, the mini RaceDay Bag™ is perrrrrrrrfect for carrying just what I need:
- a nozzle
- 2 cannisters
- a mini tool
- dynaplug darts
Use promo code HATELOVE to save 20% on the bag and darts.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
---
161.6 lbs
17.7%
60.1%
7.5 hrs
0 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
SMALL CHANGES FOR BIG RESULTS
Sep 17, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ABOUT 10 YEARS AGO, I got back into bike racing and started having success after a few years by implementing a series of small changes. They were discoveries...
... it took time.
It always takes time, and a lot more than we want it to take.
Here are a few of the small changes
- No bread
- No sugar
- No soda
Not all at once, over years.
Little by little.
The good news, for racers, is that most competitors
- Try to do it all at once, get frustrated and quit
- Quit before they figure it out
- Are just lazy
Make small changes,
keep moving,
don't quit.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
You can find the rest of my small changes here.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
---
160.9 lbs
17%
60.6%
7.5 hrs
0 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE CHAMPIONS... OF THE WORLD.
Sep 16, 2022
by TODD BROWN
MY FRIEND DAVE IS COMPETING in the UCI World Championships. Yep, he made the team. He's already there, and posting pictures and...
... we're expecting big things from our local boy.
Not in Australia, with the Pros.
Trento.
Italy.
With the age groupers.
There are all kinds of World Championships.
All kinds
Pro.
Amateur.
... and my favorite, TMWC.
Yes, the most important championship in these parts...
... the Tuesday Morning World Championships.
You might think you have something similar in your area, but does yours have
- A 19th annual showdown?
- Awards?
- Ca$h?
If it doesn't, why not?
Have some fun.
We do.
Past champions include Pro Tour DSM athlete Kevin Vermaerke... he was like 15. Plus Andrew Vollmer and other youngster who went to pro contracts.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/unofficial-tmwc-2022-19th-year
It's free, unless. you want the SuperTech T
If you do, use this promo code: TMWC22
If want do something like this for your ride, I gotta guy.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/unofficial-tmwc-2022-19th-year
HOW BAD WAS THAT RACE?
Sep 15, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE THINGS I LOVE ABOUT RACING, is the not knowing. Not knowing who is going to show up, what teams will be there, how the weather will be, how I'll be...
... the further out the race the more mystery involved.
As it closer, somethings are more clear but there's always a big question...
... will it all go well?
Hopefully, yes.
But, shift does happen.
When it does, it's easy to get derailled,
want to quit,
give up.
By labeling it bad, is bad.
doesn't help at all,
makes it worse.
Now, when things don't go according to plans I have supercharge for good:
- This will make for a much better story
- I won't make that mistake again.
- That saved from something
I got a million responses...
... they're rarely bad.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/surf-n-summit-fall-22
The bigger the ride, the more possibilities for better stores.
We're gonna have some doozies after this...
... registration closes 9/18.
The adventure of the year for us...
... are you coming?
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/surf-n-summit-fall-22
---
159.9 lbs
17.6%
60.1%
7.5 hrs
2 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
BUT, WOULD YOU DO IT?
Sep 14, 2022
by TODD BROWN
OUT AND ABOUT ON THE TRAILS TONIGHT, I came across two young lads. I'd followed them up the easy route, back to the top. As I closed in...
... I could see they had stopped to look at something.
Their heads were perched above the grass, and I could tell they were investigating something.
What could it be?
Dead animal?
Fallen rider?
Oh, I see.
You guys gonna ride that?
Well, you could take this line but it's a little rutted out from the rain.
You gonna ride it?
I think it would be better over on the left.
Are you gonna ride it?
If I do it, I'll def drop in slow and land to the side before I try and hit the huge step up.
Are you gonna ride it?
Oh, no way man. We're just checking it out.
I know that feeling.
Vertical entry for first 30 feet, another 60 slightly less steep, then straight up the other side into the air, hoping you clear the 20' gap to the landing that is 10' higher than the top of the jump.
I don't actually know the feeling of jumping something like that, but I'm very familiar with analyzing the crud out of something well beyond my capabilities and...
... simply living with the thought, What would the be like?
Makes my hands sweat just thinking about a jump like that.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Just another reason to wear these superlight race gloves, with real leather palms.
I wear 'em year round, rain or shine, hot or cold.
You can wear 2 pair for the price of one.
Just add to your shopping cart and the discount will be automatically applied.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
159.8 lbs
17.7%
60.8%
7 hrs
1 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
THE BIGGEST TEMPTATION
Sep 13, 2022
by TODD BROWN
MY SEASON IS OFFICIALLY OVER and I'm facing the biggest temptation. It's one that could ruin everything next year. It's not that delicious chocolate twist I ate last Friday...
... something far worse and sinister.
You, of course, are far wiser and more disciplined.
I'm trying to be...
... my friends aren't helping at all.
Todd, you're so fit right now let's go do Barnburner.
Can't.
Bro, Masters Crit Champs this weekend. You're going right?
Negative.
Grizzly 100 is coming up, you're gonna slay it.
Nope.
Those are pretty easy to say no to.
- They cost money
- Involve travel
But, it's never the big temptation that gets ya.
The Devil leads ya slowly down to hell...
... one pedal stroke at a time.
It's the group rides, that can get carried away,
and the months away race where I want redemption, that can make we want to train,
or a PR I wanna get after one more time.
These little innocent efforts can add up and instead of rolling into 2023 chomping at the bit like the thoroughbreds we are...
... we could up old nags searching for the oat bag.
The difference between excellence and prettydarngood, in my opinion, is how fresh we are...
... not just physically, but mentally.
As the great Bon Scot said...
... It's a long way to the top, if ya wanna rock n roll.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/triathlon-raceday-bags™
Part of getting to the top is mental, a big part.
Gotta stay fresh and organized so as not to waste any mental bandwidth.
Did you know we have Triathlon Specific RaceDay Bags™?...
... talk about a group with a lot of gear.
The pockets are specially marked for out Tri brothers and sisters.
Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/triathlon-raceday-bags™
---
159.9 lbs
17.6%
60.1%
7.5 hrs
2 strength rotation
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
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