https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
DO LESS, AND OBSESS
CAN'T GET THIS CONCEPT OUTTA MY MIND, not because I've never considered it, because it's so darn rhymey. I coudn't say it better...
... Do less, and obsess.
Maybe I just needed to hear the message?
The idea of having 1 (one) 'A' race a year has always turned me on...
- It's more fun to have one focus
- dive into the nittygritty
- get granular
- geek out
... that's the shift I love.
Yeah, I might end up with a bike that's not good for much but a particular course,
training that is so specialized as to be worthless for everything else.
But, that's the point.
To be so singular,
to be uniquely prepared.
Then, and only then, I might have a chance...
... and that's all the hope I need.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to treat...
... all other races as distractions at best.
Places to test...
- equipment
- strategy
- training
... nothing more.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to commit...
... to training blocks and weight lifting.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to see...
... the big picture.
To do less,
and obsess.
---
168.7
8ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
76
>
HE'S TRYING TO KILL ME
THE POOR WOMAN WAS RED IN THE FACE, if looks could kill her guide/date would be dead. They'd just cleared a very overgrown jungle and were now pushing their bikes up a rocky stretch...
... who could blame her?
Who could blame him?
Sometimes our sense of adventure...
... is total nonsense.
I could only laugh.
Don't kill him here, you need to get home first!
They had a ways to go.
We have about 5 weeks to prep for the SurfNSummit.
Yeah, it's far.
Lots of climbing.
But, still I'm surprised at how many people misjudge what it takes.
Some, think it's just impossible to complete...
... usually my most fit friends.
Others, show up with what appears to be no business attempting it...
... but, hope and the desire to do something epic.
It's one of those Henry Ford moments.
Whether you think can, or think you can't...
... you're right.
So, if you think you can ride 100+ miles with 15,000+ feet of climbing...
... click here to check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/free-registration-for-the-surf-n-summit-california-5-18-24
---
168.2
9ish hrs Sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
76er
>
AN OBSERVATION ON UNEVEN POWER BETWEEN LEGS
ONE OF THE SETTINGS ON MY POWER METER shows the power put out by each leg. It can def ovewhelm for an entire ride, because we can...
... freak out about data we don't like.
It's on one of my Wahoo screens.
I see it from time to time on a ride.
Consciously trying to even out the power was annoying the heck out of me.
One leg was always stronger, unless I reallyreallyreallyreally focused.
Then, I had an idea.
Something to try,
that I used to do.
This came to me when I noticed standing and climbing,
power was always 50/50.
Hmmmm.
What's the difference?
Then I noticed,
same thing when it got steep and I really had to put out some power.
Well, that was nice to see...
... somewhat calming.
Hmmmm...
... how to do that all the time?
Welp, this is just an observation.
It might not work for you.
Meter could be mismonitoring, but this makes all the difference in the world...
... when I consciously focus on pedaling with the heels down.
What?
Really?
Yes.
What I think is happening is I'm eliminating a dead spot along the top of my pedal stroke...
... gonna verify with my genius bike fitter, Ashley.
---
167.3
8ish hrs Sleep
No Strength Work
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
78
>
THE WHAT AND WHY OF A PROPER EZ SPIN
I'VE BEEN TRYING TO GET THE LEGS TO COME AROUND, which means I had to actually dedicate myself to do some easy spins. Because, like most of us it's just...
... darn hard to go easy.
Or, is it just me?
First off, what constitutes an easy spin?
Two things:
- Low effort
- High rpm's
How low?
Very bottom of Zone 2, or anything in Zone 1.
How high?
90-100+ rpm's.
Why?
Well, one of my early coaches called it a Rinse Ride for a reason.
If we are really doing it correctly,
our legs feel all clean and springy because...
... we rinsed out the crud.
Why else?
- It's good on the brain
- Takes the pressure off, simply relaxing
- Great time to catch up with friends and chat while spinning
How long?
45-90 min seems about right.
The things we think about when we're just spinnin' ez.
---
166.9
8ish hrs Sleep
Just PullUps and PushUps today
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
73
>
EVER HAD THE CRUD BEAT OUT OF YOU, FOR REAL?
GROWING UP, we fought a lot. We were too weak to do much physical damage, but there was plenty of pride and shame on the line. It's not much different now...
... when we race.
If we truly get the crud beat out us by...
- the course
- the competition
- our worse, ourselves
... there is only one question.
Did we really get it beat out of us?
Or, are we destined to get pummeled over and over again because...
... the crud is still there?
Is our diet a joke?
Do our handling skills still stink?
Does our bike squeak and wobble?
'Cause if that crud is still there, then...
... it's not beat out of us.
We've just learned to live with mediocrity...
... and that's just plain cruddy.
---
167.8
8ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
74
>
IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER ROAD PEDALS FOR OFFROAD?
WHEN I WAS PRE-RIDING LEADVILLE a while back, the phenom who would shatter the course record floated by me as I labored. He made it look so easy...
... was it the pedals?
99% of MTB racers,
dismount on that course.
There is no way they'd sport road shoes and pedals,
even though they are...
- Lighter
- More aero
- Offer better contact and efficiency
... because once fouled they're VERY difficult to get engaged.
Gravel,
is another deal.
Unless we are pushing the boundaries,
ripping single track,
slaloming sand...
... we're not going to dismount.
The only time would be if crashed,
or unclipped to rutter a turn.
In most gravel races,
that's not likely.
So, should we run the road set up offroad?
I have multiple friends who roll the dice in local XC races...
... and even the long, epic stuff.
It almost always works out great.
Worth the risk?
Up to you.
Worth testing?
100%.
---
167.6
7.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
74
>
HAVE YOU EVER TRIED TRAINING BIG BLOCKS?
A QUESTION CAME UP LAST NIGHT ON OUR ZOOM CALL. Have you ever trained big training blocks like Keegan Swenson just posted. Good question...
... does it work?
Maybe.
Here's what I can tell you from personal experience.
18 months ago, I was prepping for my insane time goal at Leadville.
I was really committed.
Holed up in Breckinridge all by myself,
for the month prior.
It's easy to be selfish with the time,
when you're by yourself.
The race is in August.
In July, I did..
- 20 hours
- 22 hours
- 25 hours
... a lot more than my normal 10-12 hours a week.
It was very race specific training.
Lots of Zone 2.
Recovery
was key.
I came out of that in awesome shape,
and had the best race
of
my
life.
Does it work for everybody?
I have no idea.
But, I'll definitely do it again when prepping for a once in a life quest.
----
168.9
7.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
73
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THINGS TO CHECK FIRST...
THERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT CAN MAKE OR BREAK a race, the chief being the bike. Bikes don't win races, but they sure can make things a lot harder...
... or a lot easier.
As I went through my checklist, I found a few issues:
- Rear brake pad smoked
- Sealant dried out
- Battery low
It's kinda nice to have brakes that work, especially with a ripping downhill like Saturday's.
The course should be in pretty good shape, but that doesn't mean a small wire or piece of glass couldn't be a day-ender without sealant.
And c'mon...
... ya can't ride these modern bikes without good batteries.
And, I'm not just talking about the derailleur batteries. Many of the shifters have their own small batteries.
I have made the mistake of not checking the shifter batteries.
Heck, I didn't even know about them until the start of the Filthy 50 a couple of years ago. I didn't warm up, just saddled up and headed to the start.
Typically MTB XC start... everybody pinned to get to the single track first...
... I got there last.
Shifter was dead, I was spun out and then spit out.
15 minutes later, with some help from the mechanic on site, I was back at it.
Which is exactly why I came up with the RaceDay Bike Checklist, and made it into a sticker.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-checklist-stickers
For about a year now we've been shipping the stickers out with each RaceDay Bag purchase. They're great for tool boxes and benches.
Here's a link to check 'em out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-checklist-stickers
----
168.7
8.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
71
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE HEROIC MOVE
THERE'S A LOT OF GREAT RACING GOING ON. Locally, regionally, internationally. Sometimes we witness the unfathomable attack from impossibly far out, other times...
... a second or third wind, for the win.
By inches.
We shouldn't be impressed.
I'm mean,
it's cool.
We all cheer.
But the truth is the victory was secured long ago.
When nobody was cheering.
It was dark,
lonely,
cold.
The alarm was more drill sergeant, than fan.
In those moments...
... the heroes make their moves.
If we're lucky,
we witness the results.
---
169.1
9ish hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
72
>
IT'S LIKE THE SUN GOING UP ON ME
40 DEGREES, 80% HUMIDITY ain't nothing. Combine that with a dawn start, the sun hidden behind the hills, and, well, when you're going 20+ mph in your underpants...
... it's bonechilly.
I left the knee warmers behind.
No vest.
No jacket.
Just arm warmers,
a base layer,
skull cap.
It's risky,
we might freeze,
this is how we do it...
... when we know sunny times are ahead.
So are they?
Whether we are enjoying the longer days,
recovering from an injury,
just getting back at it...
... we hope and plan for...
- better fitness
- decreased fatness
- all things to improve
... it's a process.
And, we know it.
Just like the sun coming up,
we imperceptibly rise to the occasion.
That's how today was for me.
Still got dropped,
but made it a little further.
I'll take it.
Here's a snapshot of where things stand.
There's nothing like a good fitness journey.
How's yours going?
---
168.7
8ish hrs sleep
10 Pullups 30 Pushups
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
73 (per training peaks)
>
MY DUMBEST PREDICTION YET
PARIS-ROUBAIX IS SUNDAY. I can't wait. It's always so fun to watch, and such a battle of machine, mind, and bike handling. Lots of drama, and this year...
... is starts before the famed Arenberg Forest.
The forest is always crazy.
Mud.
Cobbles.
A massive battle for the front ensues for those who want the best chance of getting through with the lead group...
... unscathed.
This year, the organizers decide a chicane right before entering the forest would be a good idea.
Less dangerous.
I looked at the layout.
Here's my prediction.
Rather than racing for the forest entrance to avoid carnage...
... they will race to the chicane.
And...
- have plenty of lycra on the pavement.
- or in the barriers
- or both.
... I hope I'm wrong.
Then, we have to wonder, at least I do, what is the point of racing?
Call me crazy, but I think part of it is to show bike handling prowess.
We're still gonna see it with the chicane.
Just seems like a little chicanery...
... to appease, who?
---
169.1
8 hrs sleep
15 Pullups 50 Pushups 40 Shoulder Press... no legs today.
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
BLOOD. WORK.
DON'T BE LIKE ME. Because I never get sick, I never go to the doctor. Which meant I never had my blood work done. You're too smart for that...
... here's why.
By regularly getting the blood work done, we have a baseline for "our" normal.
I don't have that.
When I had the brain injury a few months ago,
things changed.
The brain is our command center, telling the body what to produce and control and do, etc.
A brain injury often causes issues with how the body is regulated.
Today, we reviewed my blood work which was drawn a few weeks ago.
Some markers are out of range - too high on some, too low on others.
Bad news is...
... I have no reference point of "my" normal.
Could be genetic, could be from the injury.
Good news is...
... we know where I'm at, and have some corrective measures to take.
Bonus, most indicators are positive for my body, and with my overall health.
Dr. Cory King, my functional health doctor from Encinitas, went over it all with me.
Nothing too scary...
... but definitely areas to not ignore.
Things like cholesterol levels, vitamin levels, etc. that can have negative effects if left untreated.
So, we'll chock this up as another blessing from my brain injury.
Regardless of your awesome health.
Find out where you are at,
things can probably be improved.
Consider this a gentle and loving nudge from me to you...
... get the blood work done.
---
169.4
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
CHEAT CODE
HERE'S A DIRTY LITTLE SECRET. Okay, maybe it's not all that dirty but it is secret and fact is it's...
... a cheat code for life.
There's a reason we get out and do our thing.
Sure, it's great to be in shape.
Have that come what may attitude.
Fact is, even though the fitness is great...
... there's something better.
- The problems we solve
- Ideas we come up with
- Freedom to think
We often, nearly always, return...
... renewed.
Ready
To
Kicka$$
Even when,
especially when...
... we've rung out our body's energy supply.
---
169.1
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
STRUGGLING WITH WEIGHT... TRY NOT
SINCE MY AWESOME START TO THE YEAR, knocking myself out and spending a 5 days in ICU, my metabolism has changed. This is not uncommon, given the standard protocols...
... and now I'm pissed.
I didn't ask for this, and that is not the problem.
I haven't asked for a solution.
I have forgotten my own wisdom.
Well, on the eve of my bday, yesterday, I was asked...
... What do you want?
Get my lycracovered buns back in fighting shape.
I went to bed with a question...
... How do I get back to my normal, leanish self?
I woke up with an answer.
A book recommendation appeared on my Kindle.
Feast., Fast. Fit. by Fred Duncan.
It wasn't new information for me.
Heck, I preach it.
It's worked in the past.
I believe it will work again.
The lesson?
It isn't get on the diet train...
... it's ask the right questions,
and expect answers.
- How can I get lean?
- How can I climb faster?
- How can I stay cool in the blistering heat?
- How can I complete a century without bonking?
- How can I reduce the drag created by my bike and body?
Try not.
Ask or ask not.
---
170.3
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THOU SHALT CARE FOR THY HANDS
TAKING CARE OF THE HANDS is importante. Road, is pretty straight forward. So is MTB. Gravel, well, it's got it's own challenges...
... what can we do?
I've seen plenty of ruined hands...
- brutal gripshift blisters
- palms filled with asphalt gravelly stuff
- a thumb's skin pealed from under the nail past the first knuckle
... all of it could have been spared with gloves.
Personally, I prefer very lightweight fullfinger gloves.
But, that ain't gonna help on the gravel bike.
No suspension.
What can we do?
I double wrap my bars with a good soft tape.
- helps with vibration
- displaces pressure points across a wider area
I was reminded of how great this is just last week.
It'd been a while since I'd ridden the roadie, been riding the gravel bike on and off road a ton.
As soon as I got going the bars felt weird.
Sharp.
Oh yeah, the single wrap bar.
It's lighter.
More aero.
But, I'd never go back to a single wrap on the gravel bike.
---
170.5
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
WHICH NUMBERS ARE WE CHASING?
THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE between the kinds of numbers some of us focus on putting up. Some chase big power numbers, while others chase small numbers...
... what's the corresponding motivation?
You know.
Are we more interested in the low numbers: 1st, 2nd, 3rd...
... or, increasing our own personal power numbers?
Do we need everybody to see us on the podium...
... or, are we thrilled when we privately snag a new PR?
We can go out to the race,
or we can design our own incredible adventure.
We can train to beat everybody,
or our training can help us live our best lives.
They're not necessarily mutually exclusive,
there are four seasons for a reason.
---
169
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
IS IT TIME TO STOP BINGING?
SATURDAYS ARE MY DAYS. All week long, I look forward to getting up early and rolling out with no particular plan but wasting time via hours in the saddle...
... I call it binge riding.
Not today.
It was raining
When that happens on the 6th day of the week,
my day,
I'm typically grumpy.
This time,
I was looking forward to it.
Why?
Honestly, I'd been binge riding too much.
Too many days in a row spent
slipping out after work
staying out too long...
... the time change being my enabler.
I was unconsciously due for a break.
Some call it overtrained...
... overbinged is more accurate,
for me.
---
168.2
7.5 hrs sleep
Lots of pull ups, pushups and squats.
10 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
68
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE OL' WHAT IF YOU KNEW...
THESE TWO PUNKS SHOWED UP TO MY HOUSE, and dragged their dear ol' dad out for his favorite thing. Riding MTBs with them...
... that wasn't the best part.
Sure, it was fun to keep up with 'em.
Mostly.
Then, completely overdoing it at Cheesecake factory.
The best part was dropping by the Audi store...
... and hotrodding around in a $70k RS3.
So.
Dang.
Fast!
It's good to get in the dream car, and throw it around some corners...
... to keep the dreams alive.
But, what if it wasn't a dream.
What if...
... you knew you could PR any segment, win any race?
What would it be?
If we don't know,
can't quickly answer the question..
... likely not going to happen.
But,
what
if
we
knew...
... then,
what would we do with today's training?
---
1680
7.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
JUST BECAUSE IT'S FREE MEANS...
SO MUCH INFORMATION, and so much of it free. Free is a weird price, because we know it's gonna cost time and there's probably...
... an ask down the road.
Don't be fooled.
Sometimes the really expensive stuff is great,
sometimes it's terrible.
Same for free.
Price is a signal.
Should we be swayed?
I recently got an offer to save 30% on a $6000 frame.
6K!!!...
... must be awesome.
Maybe.
But, how do we know?
Really?
The glossy magazine ad?
The pro riding it to a win?
It can be frustrating.
When it comes right down to it, most of us...
... are swayed by our friends' reviews.
Like these -> https://pedalindustries.com/pages/reviews...
... which I'm extremely grateful for.
---
168.3
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
DOES YOUR DOG BITE?
THE GREAT INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU encounter with a dog is classic. The dog is off leash, he asks Does your dog bite? The answer is, No. He bends to pet the dog...
... only to have the dog viciously latch on to his hand!
I thought you said your dog does not bite?
That is not my dog.
I thought about that since Surfergirl has...
- demanded
- pleaded
- asked
... that I let her track me on my rides.
I feel like a dog on a leash.
The Jason Bourne in me wants none of that.
There's nothing to hide,
when I ride.
But, really?
She does have a point.
I often venture into the wild.
Signs with warnings of mountain lions and snakes about.
Trails are often treacherous to the bike,
and potentially me.
Humans few and far between.
If, if, if I should need a rescue,
which I never have...
... I'll just need two things.
A cell signal...
... and a friend who cares.
It's kinda romantic when ya think about it,
guess we're doing all right.
---
168.2
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
HOW MY LITTLE PRACTICE LOOP TOOK ME DOWN
I SET OFF TO POUND MY PRACTICE LOOP. The profile is jagged, lots of single track, and...
... I'm trying to crack 90 minutes.
Today's failure is why it's so important to practice racing.
Here's the dill.
This course is very hard to stay fueled on...
... almost impossible to drink, forget about eating.
Which meant I was tuckered out, with 4 miles to go. The last 30ish minutes are pretty dern steep.
With about 20 minute warm up,
winging it on 1/2 bottle and 100 calories was a weak effort.
Just not enough.
Strava called a Massive Relative Effort,
giving the workout a score of 192.
I'll try it again in a couple of weeks.
This time with 400 calories,
and 30 ounces of water,
in a Camelbak.
There just isn't time to suck on a bottle,
the bladder hose is easy to grab,
and once in my mouth,
handsfree.
Ya can't figure that out without simulating what ya might be racing...
... in real world conditions.
---
169.1 lbs (dropping some of these will speed things up, too)
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
SPEED AND BRAKES, NOT ALWAYS OBVIOUS
THERE'S A TECHNICAL, ROCKY SECTION on part of a local trail. First-timers walk it, new riders use a slow approach, locals...
... let it rip.
They know something.
Speed makes it much easier to glide over the the treachery.
It's counterintuitive.
Disc brakes are the same way.
They rub.
We pry 'em apart and reinsert the wheel.
Soon into the ride they are rubbing again.
Why?
The pads are worn out.
You'd think they would stop touch the disc or barely work when running thin.
That's the way rim brakes work when the pads are worn down.
Not discs.
Counterintuitive.
Which why we alwaysalwaysalways check our brake pads before a race...
... so we hit the tricky stuff with speed.
---
167.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
66
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
DO YOU D.H.T.?
WE MAY NOT BE PRO. Our equipment may be lacking, our preparation woeful, our focus far from singular...
... which makes it all the more impressive.
When we, you and me...
... Do Hard Things.
Just like the pros,
but on a whole other level.
They level up,
get a pay check.
Our objective has nothing to do with money, and...
... everything to do with commitment.
Here's the cool part.
People see it.
Our family, friends, work associates, neighbors, etc.
They get inspired.
Maybe not to ride 100 miles or run a marathon or do an Ironman.
Doesn't matter.
The ability to D.H.T. can be applied to anything...
- changing diapers in the middle of the night
- studying instead of clubbing
- making 100 cold calls/day
- working 80 hrs a week for a season
- pushing a car off to the side of the road
- leading volunteers to repair after a disaster strikes
... once we learn we have it within us.
---
169.1 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work today
10 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
66
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
WE NEED A METRIC FOR THIS
THE FIRST TIME I SAW SHIMANO'S INTEGRATED SHIFTING, dubbed SIS, I knew there was no chance in a sprint without it. Sure we'd perfected the lost of art of...
... sprinting, letting go of the handlebars with one hand to shift.
But, what was the point?
It was useless.
Shimano changed the game, all because...
... Gripshift had changed the game.
Gripshift morphed into SRAM.
Shimano gave us electric shifting.
SRAM did it better with wireless.
How is that my new Kindle got me thinking of this?
Simple.
Kindle changes the reading game.
Which got me thinking about another game changer, Training Peaks.
It's pretty cool.
All kinds of data.
But, one metric is missing and would...
... be so funny to have.
A measurement for how bad a ride sucks...
- Freezing rain
- Frying pan heat
- Mile long hike-a-bike
- Gail force headwinds
- Countless mechanicals
... indicating our badassness for getting it done,
not quitting.
For example, we rolled the dice this morning on a 38% chance of rain.
No big deal, right?
3 hours in, we face another hour of driving headwind and relentless rain...
... the suckometer was needling past halfway.
- Hands were edging towards inoperable.
- Too wet and involved to eat carbs
- Feet sloshing
Not terrible.
But, somewhere on the ride data it woulda been nice to see...
... the badassometer read out.
Just fer fun.
See where the day's suckiness ranked against other such rides over time.
Time to go back the Kindle...
... under the blankies.
Me still cold.
---
167.9 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
LEARNING TO RIP FROM MARCH MADNESS
BALL AND STICK SPORTS are typically concerned with, and built around, offense and defense. How do we...
... apply that thinking to our endurance addictitions?
Do we have offense?
Defense?
Yep.
Offense
- Riding, running swimming time
- Weight lifting
- Racing and competitive group rides
- Upgrading equipment - new, shiny stuff
- Hiring a coach
- Fine tuning the bike fit
- Developing our handling skills
Defense
- Recovery work
- Sleep
- Proper nutrition
- Accountability partner(s)
- Equipment maintenance
- Stretching
- Allies to work with when falling behind
And before you say I've misplaced one of those, we all know...
... the best defense is offense and visa versa.
That's not the point.
The point is to figure out...
... how to incorporate a great offense and defense in our limited time.
---
167.8 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
TWO OF LIFE'S MYSTERIES
THERE TWO MYSTERIES THAT SCIENCE can't explain. AI doesn't have the answer, either. But's they are facts just the same. For example...
... why do beginners get all the flats?
Riddle me that one LycraMan.
You know it's true.
You know if you invite a new, excitedtobethere, rider along, there's gonna be a flat.
Waywaywayway more often than the experienced riders will experience.
Makes no sense.
Just like why more bike shops don't have a comfy couch to wait for that...
.... just a few more minutes...
repair.
Maybe a coffee table showcasing
- A colorful catalog of their favorite products
- Samples of their go to sports drinks or things to chomp
- Gotta have tools to check out
I was thinking of another mystery as I swapped out my worn disc brake pads...
... why more of us don't learn the basics of maintenance.
---
168.7 lbs (the struggle is real)
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
63
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE PRIDE CYCLE QUEST
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE THAT YOU'RE PROUD OF? Could be anything, but let's stay on point with athletic endeavors because it's important...
... to harness this concept.
The Pride Cycle Quest.
It's also dangerous,
if we let it get the best of us.
For me, at least, it's all about the quest.
Can I do it?
And, it's a cycle...
- Pick the outrageous result to chase
- Train for it.
- Do it.
... and pick another quest.
I don't really care if anybody else thinks it's cool,
so few understand us anyway.
It's internal.
Am I proud of that result?
It's only dangerous if we are chasing likes and kudos and cheers...
... from the world.
It's not about that.
It's about the quest.
It's personal.
I'm happiest when I have at least one per year.
That's my cycle of pride.
---
167.9 lbs
7.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
CHASING GHOSTS
PATHS BECOME TRAILS, trails become roads, roads become highways. It's evolution, and underneath it all are the ghosts...
... who got it started.
We think we're blazing a trail,
when we are really just going along with the crowd.
I was thinking about the day my longgone granpappy came to watch me race a criterium.
It was all new to me.
We wizzed past him every lap.
But, the laps were long...
... and he could barely see at that stage.
Afterwards, he told me how it was years before, when he was young.
I thought it would be in a velodrome and I'd be able to see you entire race.
Clueless me had no idea velodrome racing was the only bicycle racing 100 years ago.
Prior to that, it was racing bicycles long distance, on dusty...
... gravel roads.
In other words, we gone from...
- gravel
- to velodrome
- to road
- to bmx
- to mtb
- to gravel
... so why is gravel "new"?
It's not.
We're all just chasing ghosts who've gone before.
---
168 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THIS AIN'T NO TIME FOR FOOLING AROUND
WHAT IS THE BASELINE? The minimum effort to do and consider the week a win? It's important to have the least acceptable effort in mind...
... and make it happen.
Riding in the rain will make you think things like that.
Like, why the heck am I doing this?
Which is exactly what I was thinking as the skies opened an hour away from home.
Because I made a plan.
A public commitment.
Accountability.
Yesterday, in the sunshine and 72 degrees I committed to do the following this week:
- 15 pull ups, 50 push ups, 10 squats daily
- Ride 14 hours this week
- Drop 3 lbs
Easy to do when the weather is good,
and the day lazy.
The public commit was to the RaceDay Rippers,
who also hold me accountable each week when we check in.
I'm two months out from my next quest, the SurfNSummit.
The plan is on my RaceDay Calendar.
Some say Show me your calendar and I'll know what important to you...
... and yes, Date Night better be on there each week.
We have a few of the Giant RaceDay Calendars left, and you can save 25% since a quarter of the year is nearly past by using promo code:
CAL25OFF
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2024-giant-raceday-calendar
Here is the code:
CAL25OFF
Nod to the great Talking Heads for the inspiration
This is ain't no party, this ain't no disco, this ain't no time for foolin' around
---
168.9 lbs
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
59
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
HOW TO STAY SLOW...
IT'S SUPER EASY TO STAY SLOW, and just as easy to stay fast. To stay slow, do what your slow friends do and...
... expect to get fast.
The problem with actually getting fast,
nobody gives you credit.
For the most part, they can't see or appreciate, and will never know...
... how hard we work.
And, we've got to be okay with that.
To commence,
recognition be damned.
To be fast, do what you fast friends do...
... and expect to get fast.
Do.
Expect.
168.4 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
58
>
WWDGD?! - 25 WEEKS TO GO
I FELT GOOD ENOUGH THIS WEEK TO DREAM of getting my fitness back and setting unrealistic goals. Is there anything better than that? Getting to a place to...
... dare to go for it.
After pushing hard for nearly 3 hours, we had a choice.
Take it easy or do the hurtful climb?
500' in a mile doesn't sound like much...
... unless it's the last climb of a fast day.
We were gonna skip it, and then Love Watts yelled...
... WWDGD!
Huh?
What Would David Goggins Do?!
There was no choice at that point, because all of us have streeeeeeeeetch goals this summer.
It was fine.
Slower than I'd like...
... but, compared to last week waywayway better.
And so the journey begins.
The countdown to Gravel Nationals.
Here's where I'm at.
You can see my fitness score at the very bottom.
Down from over 50%, 18 months ago.
Weight, 168ish.
Up 10 lbs, 18 months ago.
Vision is still messed up.
Way off from what I considered one of my few advantages racing off road.
Can I be ready September 8th, 2024?
It's gonna be fun,
and frustrating.
WWDGD?
Go for it.
Every
single
freakin'
opportunity.
168.2 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
60
>
WHEN THE RACE PLAN GOES TO HECK IN A HANDLEBAR
IT WAS A ROUGH START, things weren't going smoothly at all. It was causing a lot of stress and internal turmoil. Energy I'd hoped to reserve for...
... more important sections of the event.
Ayyyy, what to do?
What I always do...
... but, forget to do.
Think of of the things going right...
- I felt good
- I'd started on time
- My prep was perfect
... other words be grateful for the good.
My energy shifted.
I calmed down.
Focused on getting down to business.
Wound up having a spectacular day...
... at the office.
Tomorrow's race should go a lot better, and if it doesn't...
... I know what to do.
168.2 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery
600 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
YOU INSURED FOR THAT?
WELL, THE BILLS ARE COMING and I'm thinking about you and me. For years I've looked at health insurance as lame. Struggled mentally, sometimes economically...
... to pay that everlarger bill.
Why?
I never get sick.
Rarely, and I mean rarely, do I see a doctor.
I'm already doing all they would recommend to get better...
- eat good
- skip sugar
- get plenty of rest
- and workout regularly
... why would I spend the $ on insurance?
It feels like I'm being duped.
Well, there are these events called...
... accidents.
They happen,
and are almost completely unplanned.
So, yeah, my bills are coming in and I'm happy as being at the to of the podium at my A race...
... 'cause it looks like almost all of it covered.
Sucks to be out 1000s...
... but, way better than being out 100s of thousands.
Just putting this out there 'cause I love you...
... get covered, if ya ain't.
====
Side Note: has anybody tried insurance for bike like BikeInsure? Asking for myself, just found out about 'em
167.2 lbs
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
DO YOU LET POWER OR HR DETERMINE YOUR HARD VS EASY DAYS?
I HADN'T WORN MY HR MONITOR FOR DAYS. It wasn't working consistently, so I left it parked in the drawer. Until today, I gave it a shot and it actually worked...
... it got me thinking about the levels of easy.
There's so easy...
- I can barely feel the pedals
- I can sing a song
- I can easily talk
- I am not sure
... and maybe a few more levels.
My goal today was to ride as close to the top of my Zone 2 as possible, without going over...
... the I'm not sure range.
I wasn't sure, because my heart rate was bouncing at the top of the range. Meanwhile...
... my power was definitely over into a higher range quite often.
This is how I trained for decades, when I just had a HR monitor.
What's more important then...
... HR in Zone 2 or Power in Zone 2?
I'm gonna say, for me at least, HR is more important. It is more reflective of how all systems are working given the effort and absorbs the little efforts when the terrain or other elements require a few more watts.
Here's a real world application.
When I'm racing something epic, like Leadville, I'm going off heart rate for my pacing, and using the power meter to keep things in check when I have to dig a little deeper to close a gap or clean a technical uphill section.
The reality is, for peak performance on the long efforts...
... it's good to have both.
If it's a short race, under an hour, well, you know...
... put the dadgum gadget in the back pocket and race on feel.
Same for a long day of adventuring, who cares about the data when we're out there.
Enjoy the ride.
We can analyze later.
---
168. lbs
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
57
>
SHOULD WE DO A HUNDRED RACES IN A YEAR?
YA WANNA GET GOOD, be a boss, strike fear in your frenemies, be the maker of things that happen...
... instead of wondering what happened?
Race.
A lot more.
100 times/year.
Think I'm crazy?
Think it's immmm po siiiiii ble?
Then don't do it.
Don't even try.
Keep wonderin',
misreading the moves.
Or, commit.
Do:
- 2 zwifties
- 2 local races
- 2 group rides
- 2 of your own personal courses for PR
We all have 52 chances a year,
to race twice a week.
No excuses.
Nothing but upside.
Heck, even a brain-damaged guy like me can do it.
This week...
- hammering my xc race loop Tuesday
- group ride on weekend
... slaying myself today, getting crushed by the fellas Saturday.
Gotta start somewhere.
Gonna do what hurts and what I'm comfortable with.
Twice a week.
Oh... I know you're askin'...
... Why 100 times a year?
Because, every race is different.
We'll see a lot of different situations.
We're trying to see 'em all, or have a reallyreallyreally good feel for what is going to happen.
Simple as that.
Experience counts.
Get some.
It's free.
---
168.6 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
55
Are you ready to Rip On Raceday?
>
NOT GONNA LIE
WHEN I FINALLY CAME TO, I had one thing on my mind. Not after first being knocked out, not after the morphine and other meds wore off, days after being home...
... I wanted to say one thing.
Not gonna lie.
I was hurting.
Stunned.
How could my crazy good health take such a drastic turn in seconds...
... this wasn't what I had planned for 2024.
8 weeks later, I'm improving.
I'd leave it there, but...
... not gonna lie.
I'm nowhere near where I was just prior, nor 12 months ago, nor 2 years ago.
I'm off.
I can work 4-5 hours,
then my brain needs a break.
I can ride my bike,
but I have no power,
off-road vision is shift.
I can talk to friends,
until I can't.
Something even more weird happened though.
Something few will admit or acknowledge or maybe even notice...
... when I took that blow to the noggin' it felt like my spirit left my body.
There's a disconnectedness.
I know things aren't quite right.
Will they return or is life just going to be different?
Not gonna lie...
... this is new territory.
Now, I'm being as honest and transparent as possible in all I do.
My friend battling cancer taught me that,
the freedom of being honest.
Yes, I hid it from Surfergirl that on one of my first bike rides alone I was going down the road and thought I saw 4 ducks crossing the road in front of me...
... it was just two,
that's troubling.
Not gonna lie.
I kept riding.
Lying to myself it was all good,
hiding the truth if asked.
What is easier, being honest with ourselves and those around us or pulling the lycra over our eyes and theirs?
To remind myself of my new commitment...
... I made a special kit, see above.
That's the kind of thing I was looking forward to in 2024.
New designs,
new patterns,
new fabrics.
The good newsy stuff.
If you're into the rawness of honesty, maybe you'll like this too.
It's patterned after one of my all-time favorite Porsche's.
Check the full kit here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ngl-collection
Use this promo code on this kit to save 30%: NGL30
Code expires on 3.15.24.
---
168.6 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
54
>
HE SWITCHED TEAM, AND IT...
TODAY AN AMERICAN WON PARIS-NICE, an 8-Day stage race in France. A youngun, 25 years old. He'd never done it before, and wasn't picked as a favorite...
... except he picked himself.
A long time ago.
When riding for a less professional, less scientific team he was spending his own cash on equipment and training to up his game.
Something the top teams covered and pursued relentlessly.
He jumped at the chance to upgrade to the current dominant force in European road racing this season.
Would it matter?
I'd say it is clear.
What's interesting is how many of are trapped like a monkey...
... failing to let go, when we know we should.
Not only did he upgrade his team and training, but placed a huge bet on himself in a daring and startling breakaway with fellow US racer Brandon McNulty.
When you are a pro...
... winning actually is everything.
Way to go Mateo Jorgenson.
---
168.4 lbs
9 hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
53
>
HOW TO GET FASTER FOR DUMMIES
APPARENTLY, LOVE WATTS FORGOT our commitment to go easy on the way up the coast. Which meant we had time to do the biggest climb I've done this year...
... 2 hours and 2000' of climbing for our "warm up".
At the usual time, riders flocked in and we were off.
It felt good to do my first group ride of the year...
- to see the guys
- get whooshed along
- and see some higher power numbers
... until the first overpass.
Where I was off the back.
Caught on at a light.
Off again.
On again.
My breathing and wheezing needed a muffler.
On the next power climb, normally 2ish minutes...
... I needed an extra minute or three.
They were gone.
Yeah, they are nowhere near as fast as I am...
... they're a heckuvalot faster.
Am I good with that?
Yeah, they've always been faster than lit'l ol' me.
Now I just need patience to close the gap to where...
... they are less faster.
So, here's the plan that I've used many a year...
... pick a spot beyond where I got popped today.
Make it just a little further each week.
Corner by corner,
Hill by hill.
Progress > Perfection
---
167.6 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
54
>
IT WAS ABOUT THE TRUTH, NOT ARMS RACE
I HATE TIMETRIALS. I mean, I like 'em, but, yeah, I hate 'em. It's not because I'm not great at 'em, and trust me I'm not. It's because...
... they hurt so dang bad.
Not only that, it's...
- lonely
- painful
- humbling
... is there anything more truthful than getting passed by your minute man?
No drafting.
No wily cunning.
Nothing matters except...
... who is the strongest,
and who can suffer the most.
Oh, wait, one more thing matters...
... who's got the most money to afford the most advanced gear.
When everything tiny thing adds time and seconds matter...
... it can turn into an arms race.
I'm okay with that to a point.
Butttttttttt, don't ya think participation would rise...
... if we raced Merckx-style?
At least at the amateur level?
On our road bikes vs tt bikes?
With road helmets?
And "normal" road wheels?
And... you get the point right?
As much as I hate/love a tt, I truly appreciated Tucson Bicycle Classic for making their tt be done on road bikes the last to years.
It's just a lot more fair/approachable/inviting...
... and equally miserable for all.
That's the truth.
Side note: I think I love XC MTB racing because it's basically a mass start time trial. The terrain naturally and quickly separates us.
---
168.4 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
51
>
WERE YOU AS DORKY AS THIS?
WHEN I WAS JUST GETTING INTO THE SPORT, I was such a dork. A small percentage of you will disagree, maybe even swear at me, but nothing says...
... stay clear, like a mirror.
I know, I know, some of us are damaged and can't look over our shoulders.
Too stiff,
crap balance.
I was neither of those.
I was a spry young newb.
Excited to ride and race.
And my girlfriend of the time wanted to get me something cool.
I quickly mounted the mirror to the end of my handlebar - see pic above.
I thought it was rad.
Perfect for the high speeds and shoulder banging of crit racing,
which I loved.
Rather than turn my head and telegraph my plans,
I could take a peek at my mirror.
Nobody else thought it was cool...
... and they made an obnoxious and clear point of it.
If my hairy legs,
questionable bike handling,
roadrashed arms and legs weren't a give away...
... the mirror, made it clear.
I was not to be trusted in the bunch.
Here's the dill.
They were right.
Because let's face it, anybody focused on the past...
... doesn't have a shot at a winning future.
---
167.8 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
50
>
I DON'T ALWAYS RIDE IN THE RAIN...
I COULD SEE THE STORM BREWING. Like a crazy fool, I rolled out anyway even though I was certain to...
... get caught in the rain.
Trust me, I am a fair weather rider.
Gimme 70 degrees,
and a lite breeze.
So why ride?
Two reasons.
One embarrassing.
One legit...
- Poorly executed work day
- It rains on raceday
- Commitment
Yeah, I had all this work scheduled and a timeline to follow....
... and, well, ya know, things didn't go as planned.
That's 1.
Since it does rain on raceday, and I've never let that stop me from lining up...
... it's good to practice from time to time.
That's 2.
And I committed to myself to get my slothful self back in shape.
That's 3, a bonus.
So which one's embarrassing?
- crap planning
- useless prep
- silly commitment
Well, I dunno about you...
... but, I'm cool with
- keeping my commitments,
- being prepared for all conditions,
- even when things don't go as planned.
---
167.4 lbs
7ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
50
>
IT FEELS LIKE THE FIRST TIME!
I WOULD CLIMB ANY MOUNTAIN, ride across the stormy sky. It seemed like I'd waited a lifetime, spent so much time in recovery...
... it felt like the first time!
The MTB.
Like it never did before,
like I'd opened up the door.
Finally!
What is it?
I guess it's just the rawness of nature,
bringing out the rider in me.
Dawgawn I'd missed it.
Carving turns,
wiggling up technical sections,
brushing the thistles,
hanging my lycra off the back in the steeps.
Why today?
Well, to be honest, today was a breakthrough on my vision.
The double-vision I've been dealing with was greatly diminished.
Partly time.
Partly exercises for my eyes.
One of you loyal readers,
one of us,
took the time to share with me a gift for everyone.
Tools for increasing our eyesight,
the kind we need to quickly assess the best way to rip it up off road (on road, too).
You can check the tool out here: https://www.readbetweenthelions.org. Go to the K-12 program.
It's free.
Thanks Rick!
Makes me wonder what else we can learn from each other?
Speak up y'all!
Let's get betterfasterstronger...
... together.
Have you checked out https://pedalindustries.com/pages/rip-on-raceday-network?
(yeah, this post is a nod to Foreigner)
---
168.2 lbs
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
WHADAYA THINK OF UNDULATING TERRAIN?
WE HAVE SOME WEIRD LINGO. Have you ever heard any body, ever, use the phrase undulating terrain? Why would they? When you're motor-powered...
... who cares about the terrain!
Human-powered,
totally different story.
Every bump in the road and trail counts.
The longer we're out there,
the more it counts.
Sooooooooo...
... whadaya think of undulating terrain?
Do you love it?
Or, do you prefer...
- flat
- downhill
- tailwinds
- straight up
- headwinds
... lots choices when we roll out.
Me?
Well.
There are times when I'd give my chamois pad for a flat road with a tailwind.
Days when I feel so amazing I just wanna climb and climb and climb.
But, faced with a choice...
... give me undulating.
Ups.
Downs.
Lots a turns.
That's the ride I choose.
---
169.2 lbs
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
ACTION WINS EVERY TIME
WHY WAS IT SO MIND BLOWING? Yesterday's Strade Bianchi race was so shocking to me. Because, to me, all the pundits...
... missed the point.
Sure, the favorite won.
This was the inspiring part...
- he told everybody where he'd attack in advance of the race
- made a decisive attack 81 km from the finish
- never looked back
- and won
... who wouldn't want to be able to do that?
What blew my mind
was what the talking heads missed.
This athlete,
is a racer of action.
He had a plan,
and went for it.
Could it have failed?
Most definitely.
Could he have looked foolish?
For sure.
Could he have lost the race outright?
Absolutely.
Did he?
No.
Because he took action.
You miss 100% of shots you don't take.
- Wayne Gretzky
---
167.2 lbs
9 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
QUESTION: IS THIS A HIGH DEMAND SPORT?
I WAS LISTENING TO SOME GUYS ARGUE about whether or not was their religion was high demand, and it got me thinking is ours? Are endurance sports...
... high demand?
Yes.
No.
For me, and maybe for you, too...
... its high demand.
Just consider...
- Training
- Fueling
- Resting
... these are the biggies.
They are priceless,
in a sense.
Which is why the are so easy to screw up,
and so misunderstood by lookers on.
We can't put...
- Training time
- Good fueling choices
- Proper sleep and recovery
... on a credit card.
We've got to demand it from ourselves...
... but, is it really demanding when we love the results?
---
166.2 lbs
7 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
THE UNCORKED ZONE
IF YOU'RE INTO HOT RODS, then you know what uncorked means. In simple terms, all that junk that keeps the exhaust quiet and lawful is chucked...
... giving us that ultra loud and mean sound.
We have that racing and training, too.
And, if we're smart, we only hit it every so often.
You know what I'm talking about, right?
Zone 2 is corked.
- easy to breathe
- talk while riding
- and go forever.
Today was not Zone 2.
I was uncorked, a bit.
Allowing myself for the first time in 2 months to stretch the legs was amazing.
The accompanying wheezing and gasping for air…
… I don’t know if it was hot rod mean, but it was loud.
Hadn’t heard that in too long…
… ain’t gonna hear for 5 or so days.
Time to add some intensity the smart way.
Polarized.
If ya wanna solid refresher on this approach,
take a listen to this: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-fast-podcast-triathlon-ironman-cycling-coaching/id1400770015?i=1000596124366
Simply, 80-90% of our training should sound like a Tesla...
... cruising through the neighborhood.
That way we are fresh and ready to get after it like the pic above.
Let the rubber...
... burn, baby burn.
---
166.9 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
RESULTS DON'T MEAN SHIFT
I DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU ARE ON THE JOURNEY, but I can tell ya this: whether you're just starting out, coming back from injury, at the top of your game, you're gonna fail...
... if results count.
Trust me on this.
I'm rebuilding.
My fitness is shift.
the skills, off.
I've been at the top and the bottom and there is one reason I was able to climb to max fitness and performance...
... I don't care about results.
I mean I do,
but they aren't the motivator.
Optimizing my ability,
having a blast.
Way more important.
Results are nice.
If they are everything...
... quitting, giving up, and failure is on the horizon.
Don't let that happen.
How?
Relax.
We can't see...
... the great results in the making.
They're coming.
Guaranfreakingteed.
---
166.9 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
57
>
ARE WE REALLY DOING THIS?
FOSTER GRANTS ASKED ME Are we really doing this? What kinda question is that...
... Dern straight we're doing it!
Was he hoping we weren't?
Was he doubtful we could do it?
By we, I mainly mean me.
Could you?
I mean, we're gonna have a brain damaged grampa who's been off the bike for months do it...
... can you keep up?
Finish?
What's he referring to?
Oh, just the most life changing ride in Southern California...
- 100+ miles
- 15,000+' of vertical gain
... some might consider it hard.
Others a challenge.
Most an adventure of a lifetime.
So, if you wanna support the old sack a lycra,
if outrageous calls to your soul...
... sign up.
It's free.
and fun.
Click here for deets and pics.
---
167.4 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
9 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
57
>
HOW NOT WHAT
LEARNING TO RIDE A BIKE is filled with excitement, fear, and lots of scrapes and bruises. We press through because everyone we see on a bike...
... has a great big smile.
We want that,
the teacher wants it for us.
Finally we get it.
And, at least in my case, it stopped there.
Hall-ah-freakin-lu-yah!
What
and when
and who with
... were left up to me.
I'll be forever grateful for learning how...
... and the freedom to do it my way.
---
168.2 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
YOU DON'T NEED AN ALARM CLOCK TO WAKE UP, YOU NEED...
ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES I HAVE with our local morning group ride is that it starts at 6:30am. If it was out my front door...
... not that hard.
It's not.
Takes me 50ish minutes to ride to the start,
which means I'm up at 5am.
Also...
... not that hard.
However, getting to bed at 9...
... is not my standard.
I'm more of a 930-10pm guy.
Therefore, if I don't hit the hay early...
... I'm foggy, at best, the rest of day.
Plus, slower on the bike.
Oh, there's a long list of shift that results from lack of sleep.
What's an athlete to do?
Before I tell,
you are forewarned...
... this won't make you popular.
You might lose touch with friends,
or lose them altogether.
We all have a choice...
... live our best lives or live a lower version.
This allows to tap into our superpower...
... set you alarm clock for bedtime.
Every.
Single.
Night.
Or suffer the consequences:
- Inhibited ability to perform
- Decreased handling skills
- Quicker exhaustion
- Decreased reaction time
- Difficulty learning and decision making
- Increased risk of injury
- Increased risk for illness
- Poor recovery
- Memory issues
- Weight gain
- Poor balance
- ... Low sex drive
Like I said,
it might be socially unpopular but...
... wouldn't you rather operate at your optimum?
I would.
---
166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
>
DISCIPLINE, WILL. NOT HELP YOU.
Aug 02, 2022 TODD BROWN
DISCIPLINE IS ABOUT AS USEFUL AS WILL POWER. Eventually, those relying on discipline will go flat. Tucker out. Quit. But, not us...
... because we are playing the long race.
We have a superpower called Enthusiasm.
In other words, we are our own unquenchable fire.
We get up at o'dark thirty
Say no to cake
Hit the hay early
Log the miles
Lift the weights
Do the stretching
BECAUSE WE LOVE IT!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Just like we love these Superlight and breathable gloves...
... and socks made with FastMax Compression technology.
It's buy a pair, get a pair...
... lots of colors to choose from.
Nothing says pro like matching socks and gloves.
Make sure you purchase at least one of each, and the second one will automatically be discounted 100%.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
158.4
8 hr
Body Water 61.2%
2 strength work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
RISKY BUSINESS
Aug 01, 2022 TODD BROWN
ON AN ICY WINTER EVE, I slid around the corner and grabbed traction just enough to straighten out before the narrow, ancient bridge in that pic above. It was close. I was thrilled. I thought she'd be impressed...
... she was, we never went out again.
We take risks all the time, and think nothing of it.
50 mph,
downhill,
on tiny tires.
Sprinting bar to bar,
on the ragged edge of control,
into the turn and out, dashing for the line.
Bombing single track in nothing but lycra,
with open face helmets
jumping gaps.
We don't think it's risky...
...we're good at it.
Comfortable.
In control.
How do you get across the finish line first?
Practice.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/running-raceday-bags™
We have a lot of variables, a lot more than runners.
But, that doesn't mean the runners in your life couldn't use a Running specific RaceDay Bag.
1. BODY GLIDE, LIP/SKIN PROTECTION, SUNGLASSES, BIB PINS, ROAD ID
2. GARMIN and CHARGER, RACE BELT/HYDRATION VEST, NUTRITION, HEADPHONES
3. RACE CLOTHES, SOCKS, HEADBAND
4. RECOVERY (ICY HOT, COMPRESSION SLEEVES, SHOWER WIPES)
5. SHOES ON THE RIGHT SIDE
6. FOAM ROLLER, RECOVERY SHOES
2 More Pockets On The Pro
7. DIRTY/WET GEAR POCKT ON THE BOTTOM - INCLUDES GIANT ZIP PLASTIC BAG
8. SLEEVE FOR 3 26OZ WATER BOTTLES
If you've got a runner in your life, we've got just the bag they need.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/running-raceday-bags™
---
159.5
7.5 hr
Body Water 60.0%
1 strength work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE ROUTINE.
Jul 31, 2022 TODD BROWN
EVERY GREAT ATHLETE HAS A ROUTINE. Some mundane, some strange, some outlandish. They stick to it...
... because it works.
It doesn't matter if it make sense.
Is rooted in science.
Reasonable.
That's the hardest part of remote work, and doublydifficult if you're on the move.
Here's how I'm doing it.
As with any successful routine, it's all about the start. I stick to my regular schedule. For me, that's up reading and writing at 6. Working at 8. Riding in the afternoon.
If I can do that, I'm 90% there.
The other 10%, I have to be flexible. Dinner at a friend's at an odd hour, monsoon rains every afternoon, camping with no interwebs. Just roll with it...
... I've found many improvements that way.
Brian texted me during the ride to ask if the mini-RaceDay Bag™ would work with this dropper.
Apparently, that's an issue.
Not with this bag.
It sucks right up underneath your saddle.
Use promo code: 24
To save 20%.
---
158.4
7 hr
Body Water 60.8%
0 strength work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
PREVIOUSLY ON 24
Jul 30, 2022 TODD BROWN
A LITTLE OVER 24 YEARS AGO, TWO OF MY PALS GOT ME OUT OF RETIREMENT. One out of spiritual retirement, the other out of bike racing retirement. Together we raced the 24 hours of Moab...
... battling the Clif Bar team all the way.
It was epic.
Snow
Cold
Cramps
Fatigue
We wound up second,
and we wound up bonded for life.
Racing together does that.
It was fitting they join me for my biggest week of the year, maybe my of life...
... 24ish hours in the saddle.
They've done Leadville. Pete once. Jeff, 10 finishes. They've also checked off their list...
... so after 3 hours we parted.
What can I tell you?
I felt great. Putting down power all day...
... at this point, it's really only a question of nutrition.
Once you have the fitness and endurance you can pretty much go indefinitely if you're fueled correctly.
Which I was...
... until I wasn't.
Greed got the better part of me, I really wanted that 24 hours and I really wanted 8 hours in the saddle today to simulate the upcoming 100 miler.
Not a problem, except, there was no place to get food for the last 3 hours and I only had 500 calories in my pocket and bottles. I should have had at least 900...
... I was too in the zone to care.
I finally made it down off the mountain, and stopped at the 7-11.
The fact that there's a cig butt in the pic says everything.
I was feeling pretty smoked after pushing hard the final 90 minutes...
... through rain and hunger pangs.
What can I tell. you about this monster week?
According to the Stravalords, my fitness is the highest it's ever been.
140.
I'm ready.
Brian texted me during the ride to ask if the mini-RaceDay Bag™ would work with this dropper.
Apparently, that's an issue.
Not with this bag.
It sucks right up underneath your saddle.
Use promo code: 24
To save 20%.
---
158.9
7.5 hr
Body Water 61.2%
0 strength work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BE RACEDAY READY?
Jul 29, 2022 TODD BROWN
QUESTION: How old will I be by the time I'm RaceDay Ready™?
ANSWER: The same age you'll be if you're not.
THE HARDEST PART ABOUT SETTING AN OUTRAGEOUS GOAL, isn't the goal itself. It isn't all the time required, the sacrifices we'll make...
... it's the first pedal stroke.
And then the next.
It's so easy to get hijacked and distracted and discouraged...
... it's hard, it's so far away, I can start tomorrow.
The truth is, if we play this fitness game properly, is that it's in the doing. Not the done...
... fitness is never done.
There will be new breakthroughs by the big thinkers, new methods, new strategies. But, we'll never find them...
... if we don't take that first pedal stroke towards something outlandish.
I believe we all need at least 1 "A race" per year. One day when we're gonna be at out best...
... and unleash our mighty fury.
That will keep us generally on track the other 364 days of the year.
In fact, this year is the end of a 20 year massive bet with myself and my friend Kevin. That we could go under 9 hours at Leadville in our 60's. It sounded impossible at the time, we were barely doing that in our late 30's...
... now, I've made it even more outrageous.
Not only am I going for under 9, but I believe if everything goes perfect - me, bike, weather, competitors, etc...
... I can go under 8.
How can I believe this?
Because I'm still fascinated by going fast, still discovering new ways of getting it done.
And it's working.
One pedal stroke, after another.
Never stop.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/triathlon-raceday-bags™
Over the last 20ish years I've done all kinds of things to keep in shape.
I wish I had this bag when I was doing triathlons.
It's a Tri specific RaceDay Bag™, with pockets and features unique to the needs of triathletes on RaceDay.
Yes, we can make them in your team colors.
Check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/triathlon-raceday-bags™
---
160.4
8 hr
Body Water 61.9%
0 strength work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
TOO EARLY FOR THE SUN
Jul 28, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE'S EARLY MORNING RIDING, and then there's before the morning riding. Both have their curiosities, one has unmistakable oddities...
... which I'd forgotten about.
It's been a minute since I rode predawn, offroad.
Long enough that when we rolled out this morning I was momentarily surprised.
There on my arms, along with a stream of blood, were tiny white ropes.
Very tiny.
And, they were mixed in with the assorted web of cables hanging off my bars.
The question I always have when this happens is...
... Is there a webmaking spider crawling on my back?
Hasn't happened yet.
Anyway, it's one of the wonders of the world that spiders spend all night hanging ropes across the trails...
... only to have the rest of creation ripping them down.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
Speaking of ripping down, we came prepared today with loaded Mini RaceDay Bags™.
Check out this product testimonial from another rider - got it last night.
Ever wonder where I come up with these product ideas?
Riding, every single time.
Use promo code SPIDEY at check out to save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
---
159.4
6 hr (unacceptable)
Body Water 61.7%
1 strength work
3 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
THE #1 REASON TO GET TO RACE EARLY
Jul 27, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A LOT OF WAYS TO SCREW UP YOUR RACE, but we won't be talking about that. We don't screw up. We do it right...
... be getting there early.
But, I bet you can't guess the #1 reason to get there early.
First, how early.
I like to get there at least 90 minutes early. Gives me time to get my race number, visit the porta, say hi to the friends...
... and get kitted up.
So, after all that, what's left?
Well, yeah, warm up.
How long?
I like an hour. I'm a bring a trainer and do a structured warm up. Hardly. I like to get on my bike and roll around. Slow. Softly. Maybe make up a few stories about my competitors...
... to get my blood boiling.
Do some jumps.
But, that's still not the top reason to get there early.
Racing, when it comes right down to it, requires all our energy. We can't waste any...
Getting there late.
Leaving late.
... is a huge waste of emotional energy.
Conserve that awesomesauce. Store it up...
... you're gonna need it.
All of it.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
You wanna know a secret to unleash massive amounts of emotional energy and blowing your expectations away...
... register early.
It's the first chapter of my book for a reason.
The book is free...
... just cover the shipping and handling.
And get after it!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
159.3
7.5 hr
Body Water 62%
3 strength work
0 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
TRANSFORM YOUR FITNESS
Jul 26, 2022 TODD BROWN
IT'S NOT FOR EVERYBODY, but it might be for you. I came across this concept a bunch of times over the years. It never really sunk in until I heard it stated like this...
... I increased my volume a lot.
Yeah, we've all heard that. However, what followed hit deeply into my thought process and ultimately my training...
... It has been transformational.
Who doesn't want to transform their training?
Let me pause right here.
It might not work for you. The main reason is the timing of life just isn't right. For me, it's working...
... because I now have the time.
When I had less time, and less focus, a big week for me was about 12 hours...
... an average week, about 8.
These days, in fact this year, my biggest week ever has been 20 hours...
... the last four build weeks have averaged nearly 15, and 12 the rest of the year.
That's nowhere the 20-30 hours most pros put in. In fact, it's a challenge during this build session before Leadville. Frankly, I'm happy in the 12 range. Plenty fit...
... by making my average week equal my formally biggest week.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
In the end, it's about doing all you can do...
... a topic I cover in the 2nd chapter of my book.
Which is free, just cover the shipping and handling.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
159.3
6 hrs + 1.5 hr nap (embarrassing, I know)
Body Water 61.9%
2 strength work
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
THAT'S RICH
Jul 25, 2022 TODD BROWN
WE'RE SO LUCKY, to be able to ride bikes. Doubly so when we can get out of the city, on country roads, gravel roads, and single track...
... do ya ever think how poor we'd be without our bikes?
The rides and glides,
that ease the stress of life.
Answers we find around a bend,
We see, hear and feel the stoke
finding grace in every pedal stroke
So simple it's hard to comprehend.
That's rich.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
If you're headed out for a head clearing ride you might want to be loaded up.
Save 15% on top of the 10% bundle savings by using promo code RICH at check out... before Thursday.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
158.5
8.2 hrs
Body Water 61.3%
1 strength work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE GREAT LIE OF RACING
Jul 24, 2022 TODD BROWN
WELL, MTB NATIONALS HAVE CONCLUDED. I went there with two objectives: get in a really hard ride as I prep for the summer's quest...
... and see how I stacked up against my peers.
One of those is a great reason, one of them notsogreat.
How did I stack up?
I got a Silver medal.
It's cool.
But, ultimately meaningless. I mean, I'm not gonna throw it in the river. I'm also not gonna cry about being first loser. I'm gonna keep it as a reminder of how I stacked up...
... on that day, against those racers.
The quest for the summer is to see if I can do the ridiculous: go sub-8 at Leadville.
To me, PRs are and always will be the measuring stick.
What am I capable of?
That's the question that spurs me, inspires me, haunts me...
... in everything I do.
The only one that matters.
A Gold medal doesn't mean I'm my best...
... only that on that day, against those guys, I was the best.
So why race at all?
Because racing shows me what's possible...
... there's always somebody better, faster.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Part of answering that question is searching out great products.
I would never go for a PR or start a race without PR Lotion on my legs and UFO on my chain.
Save 10% when you buy the bundle and another 15% with promo code: FRESH.
The code will expire Monday.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
156.5
8.4 hrs
Body Water 60.8%
0 strength work
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
TAKING TIME
Jul 23, 2022 TODD BROWN
SOMETIMES THE BEST WAY TO TAKE TIME ON YOUR COMPETITORS is to take time for yourself. Not on the bike. Off. Not active recovery...
... a different kind of activity.
One of my favorites, is to put my bike in the stand.
And just look at it...
... with no schedule, no hurry.
Shine this.
Tighten that.
Check pressures.
Check for unusual wear.
Clean and lube the chain.
Look for ways to perfect the ride.
Here's another.
Return from a solid ride and do nothing.
Relax.
Eat.
Read a book,
and fall asleep.
It's okay to rest...
... sometimes knowing you are fresh as a new kit is all ya need.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
I love the UFO lube for my chain, and clean it with WEND.
Of course, nothing will make your legs feel magical like PR Lotion.
Save 10% when you buy the bundle and another 15% with promo code: FRESH.
The code will expire Monday.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
156.9
8.2 hrs
Body Water 61.2%
Just pushups today.
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
(DIS)RESPECT
Jul 22, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A LOT OF WAYS TO GET FIRED UP FOR A RACE. Energy drinks, music mix, mantras, a wise coach...
... my all time favorite is disrespect.
But, it takes work.
Just a little.
Because most people are really nice, and good natured...
... which means I have to manufacture something.
Just this week, I was standing on the start line for Nationals. The announcer calls up the racers with the most points and the get their choice of where to start - not me. But, before that happens, a guy with teammates iin the race is telling the guy right next to me who to watch, who's fast, who's the best descender he's ever seen...
... bro, I'm standing right here.
He didn't mean anything by it, but I take that stuff and...
... it's like gasoline on my already fireduptorace spirit.
Trust me, you have no idea the amount of things I can conjure up...
the way you size me up out of the corner of your eye
your friend's innocent comments
the colors you're wearing
your tattoos
your hair
helmet
you
your smile
your fan section
the way you snaked me in parking
your humble and meek and kind demeanor
... I'll find something.
I always do.
I'm not sure if it's any less healthy than a giant jolt of caffeine, but I like it. It's free. Surfergirl and I laugh about it...
... it's all in fun, part of the prep.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
You might hate my matching gloves and socks, but you'd be crazy. Just today, John and his daugher Addie stopped me at the races.
We'd never met in person, but they are fans of what we do.
John - Best gloves ever, I have 5 pair and 2 freshies ready to go.
Addie (she got 5th in XC!) - I love your gloves because I never think about them once they are on.
I'm partial to red... maybe because it helps me to see red!!
There are lots of options.
Did you know, if you purchase the gloves and the socks together, the socks are free when you check out?
No promo code needed.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
159.5
6.1 hrs (campfire stories and early race)
Body Water 61.3%
2 Rounds of Strength Circuit
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
FIRED UP.
Jul 21, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE MOUNTAIN BIKE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS ARE QUITE A SCENE. I like it. I haven't been to national since '05 when I was racing Super D...
... but, something has changed.
There are lots of racers. We've take over the Winter Park resort.
But, that's not it.
Nobody travels across the country for a race without putting in a lot of time and money and energy. Everybody seems fierce and ready to get after it.
That's not it, either.
I thought maybe it was the thick forest, overwhelming our senses with immense beauty.
Nope.
The thing that is different about MTB racing, from my perspective, is...
... families.
There are just a lot of families here. Many with everybody racing. Some XC, some DH, some Enduro...
... maybe MTB is a more family friendly sport?
Whether or not that's creating the vibe I'm not sure. I just know there is a really down to earth feeling here...
... and it has me fired up for the future.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
In fact, I wasn't even bummed out when I sprung a leak in my rear tire.
Just grabbed my Dynaplug system from my Mini RaceDay Bag.
Use this promo code and save 20%: FIRED UP : it will work on all the products on this link.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
---
159.1
7.8 hrs
Body Water 61.7%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS AND WHAT I FORGOT ABOUT THE GERMAN SHEPARD THAT BIT ME IN THE BUTT
Jul 20, 2022 TODD BROWN
YEARS AGO, WALKING THE DUSTY STREETS OF MEXICO two dogs lay in the shade. The little mutt jumped up, yapping and pretending to nip our ankles...
... the old German Shepard waited.
Next thing I know, my butt is on fire, in the painful grip of the sneaky beast.
I run.
He hangs on.
I hit with my pack.
He's not letting go.
My butt was bruised, with slightly broken skin. But, my confidence around dogs was scarred for years.
That's the point of latching on and not letting go...
... to destroy the confidence of your foe.
It ain't easy...
... just effective.
But somehow I forgot that lesson today.
We charged up the opening climb, which was a gravel road. I was 10 back, then 5, then 2, then leading into the first single track. We were still climbing, but now i could control the pace...
... until the guy from Flow went by me.
He cleared the top about 10 seconds ahead of me. I wasn't too worried about it, figuring I'd catch him.
I did.
He was as nice as I was about the pass.
By the time we reached the bottom, I had about 10-15 seconds on him. He caught back up and we diced through the rolling single track back to the start.
He gapped me on the second a lap, a little earlier this time. I could see him, but I couldn't quite hold on. At the top, I figured I could catch again. In fact, I passed him (or so I thought) in about the same spot.
This time, he was way, way behind and I figured he must have flatted or crashed...
... and when Bryson yelled "He's really hurt" that's all I needed.
There was one problem...
... it wasn't him that I passed.
He was ahead, and what Bryson really yelled was "He's hurting."
So, while I'm thinking I've got this wrapped up and taking it a little easy over the rock sections so as not have have any mechanical issues...
... he's up ahead, winning..
That's why, you've got to sink your teeth in deep. And, not let go. Ride till you bleed if you must...
... be the German Shepherd, latched on and unshakeable.
Otherwise, you might do what I did and pull the full dork move and raise your hands up like you won when you cross the finish line...
... in second place.
Could I have won. gone 1 measly minute and 25 seconds faster?
We'll never know, will we...
... all we know for sure is, I let go.
Which meant I couldn't keep track of him? Who was it that I passed? His twin? A teammate?...
... doesn't matter.
We always feel like we could have gone faster when it's all said and done. Always...
... which kinda fires me up!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
You could say, I'm seeing red.
And, I'll definitely keep wearing the matching red socks and gloves.
Did you know, if you purchase the gloves and the socks together, the socks are free when you check out?
No promo code needed.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
158.5
8.1 hrs
Body Water 61.5%
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
PREPARATION, WHERE TO START?
Jul 19, 2022 TODD BROWN
PREPARATION IS EVERYTHING. As my friend, and Olympic Gold Medalist P Viddy says...
... luck is for the unprepared.
So, where to start?
Bike?
Body?
Logistics?
Diet?
Coach?
No
No
No
No
No
For me, it starts in the mind.
Understanding what I can control, adjusting to what I can't.
Figuring out how to accomplish what I need to do.
Learning from mistakes and moving forward.
Focusing on my PRs, my best efforts.
When my head is right, everything else falls into place.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Believe it or not, looking sharp is good for my head...
... and I love matching socks and gloves.
Plus, these gloves are so thin and light...
... they provide superior control.
Did you know, if you purchase the gloves and the socks together, the socks are free when you check out?
No promo code needed.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
159
7.2 hrs
Body Water 61.6%
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
WHEN POSSIBLE, BE THE SLOWEST
Jul 18, 2022 TODD BROWN
I RODE WITH CHAMPIONS TODAY. My good friends from UT, Bryson and his son Myles. Both already have earned Stars and Stripes on the MTB...
... but, that's not what impressed me the most.
I already knew about that, and Bryson had warned me that 13 y/o Myles is an official untouchable ripper now.
What I loved, was following their lines.
Different from my lines.
Smoother.
Faster.
Better.
Which is why I always try and be the slowest in the group...
... it's the best way to learn.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Which reminds me, if you can't be the fastest...
... be the best looking.
Frankly, I love having my socks match my gloves now...
... especially when they are accents for the entire kit.
That's how I roll now, always.
Did you know, if you purchase the gloves and the socks together, the socks are free when you check out?
No promo code needed.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
158.5
7 hrs
Body Water 61.4%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
WHEN IS IT OKAY TO BE HUNGRY?
Jul 17, 2022 TODD BROWN
YOU SHOULD NEVER BONK. Ever. Bonking can take weeks to recover from, let alone ruin your race - like it appears to have done for Tadej at the Tour...
... but, what about fasting?
Around the world, people use fasting for physical and spiritual benefits. You can do your own research...
... here's how and why I use intermittent fasting.
I fast most Sundays.
Skipping breakfast and eating a very late lunch, I experience hunger pangs...
... it's good to feel hungry.
Our ancestors were hungry often. Much of the planet still deals with hunger. I don't love it...
... it helps me to be grateful.
Sunday is a rest day for me. No work, no riding, time for family and reflection...
... with rare exception.
Because I'm not burning calories, fasting is a good way to keep the weight in check...
... it allows me to wake up the next day in good shape.
On weeks when I've reduced my training days...
... I might also employ this strategy midweek.
A few years back, I tried intermittent fasting for weight loss.
Doing it every day. It didn't work for me, at all. In fact, it was quite bad...
... I wound up at urgent care, seeing double.
For me, I just don't carry enough fat stores and I burn too many calories with training. Which means, the rest of the week...
... I avoid feeling hungry.
Especially leading up to any kind of racing...
... I don't mind at all being a couple of pounds heavy on a big raceday.
Bottom line:
- Never bonk.
- Fast for maintenance
- and spiritual life, if you're into that sort of thing.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Is this making you hungry?
I've added some food bundles to the list of RaceDay Ready™ products I love and trust.
You can save even more by using this code at check out: RDRrocks!
Code expires in a couple of days.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
159.8
8.5 hrs
Body Water 61.8%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
ANOTHER REASON TO WHERE A HELMET
Jul 16, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE RACE COURSE HAS MULTIPLE ROCK GARDENS, one with water running through it. There's a sign warning danger. Riders are sessioning to figure it out...
... which makes it all just terrible.
Too much to think about.
Too many people pointing out all the dangers.
It's so hard to have the discipline...
... to look where you want to go.
If you have it, it's like a superpower.
Why?
Because...
... the body always follows the head.
Whatever our head is focused on, it's a lock our body is going there.
Think about that.
Do you see the rocks, ruts and roots...
... or the clean line?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
I talk about this in my book, The Way of The RACER, in the chapter titled Expect Good Things To Happen.
It's free, just cover the shipping and handling.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
159.3
7.25 hrs
Body Water 61.5%
2 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
LOSE CHANGE
Jul 15, 2022 TODD BROWN
SOME OF US WOULD RATHER LOSE THAN CHANGE. We've given up before the race even started...
... forgotten who we are.
We are born athletes.
All of us.
Want proof?
Watch a child move.
That is the ideal. But, too many of us have forgotten the joy of moving naturally, gracefully, confidently.
This was on my mind when I wrote the following mantra for RaceDay Ready.
I am an athlete.
I eat, sleep, do what will maximize my potential.
This is my nature.
I am fit,
able to respond to any challenge that comes my way.
I am fast,
moving efficiently and accurately.
I am fierce,
confident in my abilities and committed to my goals.
I am RaceDay Ready.
Then I condensed it.
I am an athlete,
this is my nature.
I am fit, fast and fierce.
I am ready.
And, condensed it again.
I am an athlete,
I am ready.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Mat decided to make a change, now he's going to Gran Fondo World's!
As you can see, he's big on visualization and got himself a RaceDay Wallet™ with his goal on it.
This shift is working for me and people like Mat.
I promise.
You can join the challenge and get your own wallet here:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
158.4
8.2 hrs
Body Water 61.2%
2 Rounds of Strength Circuit
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
EQUIPMENT OR COMMITMENT?
Jul 14, 2022 TODD BROWN
WHAT'S MORE IMPORTANT EQUIPMENT OR COMMITMENT? Without training the speediest steed is a sloth, without a decent rig the fittest racer won't stand a chance...
... so where do we focus?
On neither one.
We focus on the result we are looking for and then do the absolute minimum amount required to obtain it...
... anything more is waste.
... anything less is neglect.
... the minimum is most efficient.
For example, I want to be strong.
- It feels good
- Increases control on the bike
- Burns fat
Do I need a gym membership or a tricked out facility at home?
I don't think so.
I'm doing just fine with adjustable dumbbells and a piece of webbing. It's so simple, I can do almost all my exercises on the road.
Click here to watch this: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cf_4c-Hg4XH/
Too often, we hesitate or don't start at all because we feel we lack just the right equipment when all we really need is...
... commitment to do the minimum amount required for success.
That's exactly what my 10-week challenge is all about, doing the minimum...
... to get you the maximum results.
Are you ready to take the challenge?
10-weeks is all it takes to get you RaceDay Ready.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
159.8
8 hrs
Body Water 60.3%
3 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
WAS IT BAD LUCK OR BAG PLANNING?
Jul 13, 2022 TODD BROWN
I GOT SECOND TONIGHT, by less than a second. In fact, the podium girl stopped us before letting us ascend because the computer showed the exact same time...
... 30 minutes earlier I showed some poor sportsmanship.
Arriving late to the race, I'd grabbed my bike and not even checked my tire pressure...
... anxious to warmup, I'd made a mistake.
Off we went.
After swapping the lead 4 times over a challenging course, I'd finally maneuvered into the lead with 4 miles to go. The singletrack was so skinny it would be impossible to pass.
I had about 10 seconds.
Just after I wiggled past a younger racer I'd been battling with I could feel sprinkles on the backs of my calves.
Nooooooooooooooooooo.
Rounding a turn with speed, the back tire splashed around.
I hoped it wasn't so, but the next turn confirmed...
... I was losing pressure fast.
There was no choice but to lean forward transferring my weight to the front wheel, and slow down.
Through the trees, I could see the finish line was so close...
... too close to stop and plug the leak.
Three of us exited the forest wheeltowheel and sprinted for the the line a 100 yeards away....
... missed it by this much.
The congratulation was brief.
I was pissed.
It's true.
Not my best moment.
After I cooled down I sought out the winner and gave him a proper congratulations.
In truth, we'd had a great battle. Him besting me on the climbs, me passing on the descents...
... there really isn't anything more fun than that.
As the great Joe Walsh said...
... 'cause the Rocky Mountain way ya better pump your tires up.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
I didn't need it today, the clouds only drizzled a bit and we were going all out, but the KOM Jacket is definitely one of my all time favorite pieces.
It's wind and water proof, yet so thin and lightweight you can easily put it in your back pocket.
This might be my all time favorite piece I've created.
We have black in stock in most sizes.
Use promo code PoorToddy to save 20% and cheer me up.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
---
158.7
8 hrs
Body Water 61.1%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
CAUTION: RACE IN PROGRESS
Jul 12, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE DISCARDED SIGN SAID IT ALL. CAUTION: RACE IN PROGRESS. It's probably my favorite sign to see. It means...
... the course is clear, let it rip
I was about to do just that.
After the elation of cleaning the steep, rocky section of a climb topping out at 12,500', I was looking forward to barreling back down.
Within 30 seconds that changed.
I was cold.
Had no jacket.
Limited repair tools.
It was nearing sunset.
I was eleven miles from camp.
I hadn't seen a human for over an hour.
Maybe I should use some caution?
Ya think!
The whole way down I was thinking...
oh. I'll take this much faster during the race
oh, these tires can handle these rocks no problem
oh, I can gain a lot of speed off the brakes when it counts...
... it's important to have confidence in our equipment.
I don't go with the lightest tires,
or the lowest pressure,
or without a few tools.
I do ride the bike
set up for the big event
as far in advance as possible.
It's not worth the emotional energy to wonder if the equipment is going to perform. Or, how it will perform.
Managing our emotional energy on RaceDay, and the days leading up to a big event is just as important time in the saddle.
The reason the Caution Sign means go in our brains is because...
... we've already taken the precautions that lead to success.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
That means tying things out in advance like Rip, and making sure you're stocked up.
So, here's the Ethan Hunt offer...
Use promo code MAGIC and save 20%... and get free shipping!
... offer expires e.o.d. 7/13/22
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
159.8
8 hrs
Body Water 61.7%
3 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling (van life)
MOCK MY WORDS
Jul 11, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE REASON I MOCK PEOPLE WHO DON'T REGISTER FOR EVENTS in my book The Way of The R.A.C.E.R. is because I know how powerful visualization can be...
... if harnessed correctly.
Nothing is more compelling than throwing down hardearned cash on the registration fee.
Frankly, I think it's lame to talk about doing an event without having signed up.
- It might be sold out when you get around to it.
- The magic is lost.
Part of the magic is the way things fall into place once we commit. We find the time, get the support, discover nifty secrets.
When we don't commit by registering, nothing is urgent. Everything outweighs the idea of maybe doing an event...
... resulting in a weak performance.
Are you going for weak or strong?
I was reminded of all this by an email I received earlier today. A customer had purchased a RaceDay Bag because he'd signed up for an event and wanted to be organized...
... then, I took him to the next level.
Check this out:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
That's some good magic, don't ya think?
So, here's the Ethan Hunt offer...
Use promo code MAGIC and save 20%... and get free shipping!
... offer expires e.o.d. 7/13/22
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
158
7.5 hrs
Body Water 61.5%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
THE SIMPLEST DIET EVER
Jul 10, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A MILLION DIETS OUT THERE. I've tried a lot, made up a lot, and found them all to be unsustainable or unhealthy for me or plain ridiculous...
... until I settled on the See Food diet.
It's very easy to follow.
Easier to explain.
Hard to do.
It works.
Easy, hard, works.
The only question at this point is...
... Do you want the results?
When I explain it to people, they frown. Like it's some unrealisatic ask I've laid out...
... It's not.
At least it's no more unrealistic than asking your body to perform at it's best with improper fuel.
So, here it is...
... if you can see the ingredients of what you're eating, eat it.
Take that dinner plate above, other than the bread - which I set aside - I could identify everything on the plate. Therefore, I ate it.
Fruits, eat 'em.
Veggies, eat 'em.
Meats of all kinds, eat 'em.
Do you see what I mean?
Or course, this eliminates all packaged foods, all baked goods, all traditional desserts.
It's hard at first. It took me a long time to get on the rhythym of it all...
... and then the suprising happened.
My cravings went away.
Poof.
Well, they didn't go away because now I crave whole foods...
... whose ingredients I can see.
You know what else went away?...
... a lot of blubber.
Easily.
Over time.
A word about cheat days.
They are popular, and I believe they are stupid. All they do is restart the cravings.
Do I cheat?
No, sometimes I'll say Ice cream sounds good today.. But, Instead of pounding a pint I have a few bites. It just doesn't taste as good as it once did.
In it's place, I currently crave greek yogurt with frozen fruit mixed in.
Don't stress about it.
It's a lifestyle change, and once you start seeing your food through this athlete's filter...
... you'll notice you have a lot of places where you can improve.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Diet is a big part of being RaceDay Ready™
Can you handle my 10-week challenge?
Are you committed enough?
It's free, and lots of people across the country are going for it.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
160.9
8.2 hrs
Body Water 61%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
60 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling
IT NEVER WAS ABOUT RACING
Jul 09, 2022 TODD BROWN
TODAY WAS THE KIND OF DAY WE ALL DREAM OF. No commitments, uncharted route, perfect weather, riding until we are done...
... in a land committed to cycling.
I downloaded the Stravacreated route onto the Wahoo and set off for an old ghost town.
20 minutes in I realized I'd forgotten my wallet, and my miniRaceDay Bag™. I slowed, gave it some thought...
... and banked on ApplePay and my mechanical good luck.
Climbing cathedral mountains is cleansing.
Nothing better.
But, you've got to be fit to ride in quiet solitude, the forest and streams.
I came across some fit kids with snowboards!?
What are ya doin'?
We're gonna hike up to a glacier and ride it.
Fit + Adventurous = Fun!
Cresting the top at 11,500' I found a winter ski hut that was once the location for the crew boss who maintained the rail line. Turns out this gravel road was originally built for train travel.
Different times, hardy people.
Ride down the other side was a hoot. Rough, but not too rough to rip.
I passed a few cars taking it easy...
... clearly unaware that it's smoother at speed.
At the bottom is the remnants of a small mining town that is being restored, called Como. Settled by Italians, 150ish years ago.
I blew through, heading to the paved highway and Fairway, the ghost town I'd chosen for my turnaround.
One problem.
I had 10 miles to go on a major highway with cars speeding along. That sounded awful...
... I headed back, there was no agenda here.
This time I checked out Como.
The building, the post office.
It was 12 miles back up to the summit.
The heatwave plaguing the country was alive and well here. Nothing like a searing sun at altitude...
... with horseflies for company!
Fortunately, there was a good breeze to keep me cool and battle the flies...
... and the views.
Heading back to Breckinridge, was a bit dodgy. Lots of sightseers, walkers, dogs, riders...
... I loved it, seeing all these fit people.
Colorado has some amazing bike trails between towns. Plenty wide, far from traffic.
This trail was just what I needed because I'd planned to ride 6 hours, and was back in Frisco in 4.25.
There was nothing magical about 6 hours except I wanted to do it.
- It's a good number prepping for Leadville.
- It would give me 20 hours and change for the week.
I've never ridden that much in a week, at least not since we road every stage of Tour of California one year. Seemed like a good idea...
... but, I was lagging.
Nearly pulled the plug as I road passed the van and on to Copper Mountain...
... a blended drink and a ham and cheese croissant saved me.
There is, in my opinion, only one way to live. The only way I've been able to stay fit is to have at least 1 race a year...
... it's never about the race, it's about the lifestyle and what it allows us to do.
The race is merely a check in.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
That is the mindset I've written about in my book.
Which is free, just cover the shipping and handling.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
161
8 hrs
Body Water 61% (maybe)
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
FREAKIN' LEGS RECOVERED!
Jul 08, 2022 TODD BROWN
YESTERDAY MORNING I COULD BARELY WALK DOWN A SET OF STAIRS. Today, totally different. Why, you ask? How is this possible?...
... I even PR'd a healthy chunk of mountain.
Yep.
First off, that section I PR'd included the nasty Powerline climb.
I've only cleaned it twice.
Never in the race.
It's so heinous, when you see it in front of you...
... you just want to dump you bike, and cry.
Even fresh.
I geared down and took it in sections like the Gentleman told me to do.
I tell you that in the hopes you'll up your recovery game. It's so important, at any age.
There are 3 things I do for recovery..
- A Recovery Drink, or food.
- Stretch
- Extras like rolling, massage, etc.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
I cover How and when I do my recovery as part of the very free RaceDay Ready Challenge.
If you're wanting to be Fitter, Faster and More Fierce.
PS, this will only add to whatever coaching program you are following.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
162
8.3 hrs
Body Water 61% (maybe)
2 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
HOW TO RIDE YOUNGER
Jul 07, 2022 TODD BROWN
DO YOU WANT TO LOOK YOUNGER? FEEL YOUNGER? RIDE YOUNGER? Too bad. Just kidding. After PRing the fast and feared Powerline descent today...
... I have a few ideas.
First, people of a certain age (me!) should...
... nevereverever look in the mirror.
Never.
So disappointing.
Second, put on your shinybitchin helmet and your spiffyracy glasses and a jersey sure to draw attention...
... then look in the mirror, again.
Yeah, that's what I'm talking about.
Same warrior/warrioress...
... kitted up for killing it.
But, don't get too fancy.
Leave the gray, if you're lucky enough to have experienced life. You want to give your competitors every false hope you can.
Check out what I did today.
Ripped a downhill segment I've ridden a total of 6 times in 12 years.
Fastest in my age group, ever.
106 out of 6300 all time.
Felt amazing.
Tthere's no way I'd dare do it if I hadn't had the...
... proper mental image of who I am.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
I'm not going to tell you I'm the greatest coach ever, or that this plan will turn you into Tadej...
... but, I will promise you this.
This program I've developed over the last 10 years is legit. It's much more than an assignment to ride X miles at Y pace...
... 10 Weeks.
And it's free.
If you're wanting to be Fitter, Faster and More Fierce.
PS, this will only add to whatever coaching program you are following.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
161.8
8 hrs
Body Water 60.1% (maybe)
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
60 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
SORE LEGS!
Jul 06, 2022 TODD BROWN
I HOPE THIS NEVER HAPPENS TO YOU. I'd like to say learn from me, but I've yet to figure it out. Tonight's experiment might help...
... cure these aching legs.
Yesterday's spin didn't help.
Today's all downhill start felt great, and the 90 minutes uphill return didn't bother me much at all.
But, tonight I grabbed the Hypervolt. Cranked it up to the highest level, like always...
... and nearly dropped it.
Such was the pain.
I dialed it back.
20 minutes later, it's remotely better.
Yes... I did skip yesterday's recovery session
No... I didn't drink enough post race.
Gonna stretch and Hypervolt more this evening and watch the racers attack the cobbles at the Tour...
... that should be relaxing.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts/products/local-legeng-t-shirt
I'll enjoying this legendary ache in this t-shirt
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts/products/local-legeng-t-shirt
---
162.2
7 hrs
Body Water 59.9% (maybe)
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit (tepering)
60 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE HANGOVER
Jul 05, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE FUNNIEST CONVERSATION I EVER OVERHEARD while visiting a customer involved being hungover. Not me. A key employee stumbled in to work looking terrible and the owner, knowing the situation, asked...
... Why do you give yourself the flu?
I'm thinking about that today, because I'm feeling the effects of the epic 50 miler we raced yesterday...
... achey body and moving slow.
Of course, we all know why we do it.
But, do we all know the cure?
The famous RinseRide.
That's the best way to describe it, and I prescribe it once a week or after something like yesterday...
... massive distance, huge effort, with cramps and a crash thrown in.
It's Zone 1,
lightly touching the pedals,
coasting whenever possible,
rinsing all the bad out of our legs.
Just an hour or so...
... does the trick every time.
I always bring my mini RaceDay bag. I'm showing you this pic, post race for a reason.
- it's filthy
- inside everything is pristine
- even better is below...
... I received this from a customer this morning and thought you'd appreciate his research and candor.
I gotta give you props for the mini raceday saddle bag. I tried 2 others from big brands for my mtn bike that wouldn't interfere with the dropper operation and would stay on - to no avail. Back when you were still doing the monthly subscription thing you sent one out and it sat in my spare parts bin for a while cause I had just given up and resorted to a fanny pack, but I had a race and didn't want to deal with the pack. As I was fishing through options I saw it and decided I'd try it out. So much simpler than the other ones I used and it was perfectly solid. I've never felt it loosen up. Holds exactly what I need. I keep moving it between my mtn and gravel. I should just get another one.
Anyway - it's a pretty simple design and they often say the simplest solution is often the best.
Silca mini seat roll - has a Boa. I figured this was gonna be the solution. It's a great concept and would work great for road, but on mtn it's undone itself (not the Boa, literally the bag slips out of the boa and then flips over). Expensive bag. Useless for MTB. $50 wasted.
SciCon - several options. Broken them all. Little piece goes under your saddle and stays there and then the bag twists on and off. Again, would work amazing on a road bike. MTB is too rough
Lezyne Road Caddy was gonna be my next trial. Probably the most similar to yours, and as such might have worked.
Thanks for making awesome products!
If you're looking for the perfect mini bag to hold: 2 canisters, a nozzle, a Dynaplug, and a mini-tool this is it.
Use promo code: RINSERIDE to save 20%
---
162.3
9 hrs
Body Water 59.8% (maybe)
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit (tepering)
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
MAKE AN EFFORT
Jul 04, 2022 TODD BROWN
MY LEVEL OF INSECURITY ON THE START LINE never ceases to amaze me. It starts building an hour or so before. Punctuated by multiple trips to the bathroom...
... today was no different.
It always goes away within the first mile or so.
There's some sort of feral switch that is activated once a competitor lays down the power. I can't do this melts into Why do I do this into...
... Let's do this!
We are staying with my sis and bro-in-law who live here, and he's got a saying that served me well all day...
... Make and effort.
It's really that simple.
Heading up the 6 mile opening climb I was pleased to be with the everfast Tim Z, from home. Also with us was one a racer in my age group. In fact, it was just the two of us from our group. It's nice to know where your competitors are in these mass start events. It can be pretty nutty trying to keep track of everyone.
The four of us, 2 50s and 2 60s, cleared the first climb together. There were about 8-10 50s head. Didn't matter to me, but I could see Tim was throttling his pace for a blistering second lap.
Sis and bro, walked up several miles from their place to hand me up a bottle... everyone was making an effort!
Little French, the mile long, rock strewn, 20% grade separated the four of us. Tim rode on, I walked. It's a beast of a climb. The other 60, slid back a bit.
I spent the next hour chasing Tim's Simple Green Jersey, and looking over my shoulder for my competitor's Groove Subaru jersey. Nearing the end of the first lap, I caught up to Tim as we ripped down to town.
Now, do it again.
Ugh!
I was beat.
Surfergirl handed up a bottle and a Red Bull, she's just the best. My good luck charm.
Right then I could feel the nasty cramps rumbling around my legs. Tim disappeared up the road, on the hunt. I would spend the next 30ish min by myself. Back aching and legs cramping any time I stood.
Make and effort!
Once I cleared the top, the legs started to settle down. I was popping Salt Stick tabs. Drinking. Sipping some fine maple syrup. I started to regain some confidence, too much...
... front wheel lost grip on a gravel rode.
Down I went.
Not bad.
Except, my left quad cramped so hard I couldn't stand up. Took me forever to get mounted and coasting. Fortunately, it was a long decent and the quad relaxed and i was able to soft pedal it back to working condition.
The second time up Little French I decided to walk a lot vs smoking my legs. I wanted to be strong and fast for the miles and miles of fast, fun and techy single track.
It was a good choice.
I finished strong with some amazing pro women.
I'd made my effort and was thrilled with the result.
I want to tell you about another effort, which meant so much to me. In all the nuttiness I missed the podium.
Craig (the other 60) found me and introduced himself. He grabbed third place, and we got a proper podium shot. That was a really cool effort...
... damn I love competing.
I meet the coolest people.
In fact, had a number of people come up and tell me how much they love their RaceDay Bags™...
... another nice effort made.
I hope your 4th is/was wonderful.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
My effort to take the fitness to a new level has paid off...
... are you up for the challenge?
It's 10 weeks...
... exactly what I'm doing.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
My pal Tim Z, finished 3rd!
Jeff from Texas, who outfitted his family with bags... and is sporting some proper gloves.
I think this Rob, but I might have the name wrong. He stopped me and thanked me for making it easy for his girlfriend to always be ready for the next ride : )
---
161ish (the scale is in the van, I just didn't want to look before racing)
8 hrs (altitude is brutal)
Body Water 60.8% (maybe)
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit (tepering)
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
SMELLS LIKE RACE SPIRIT
Jul 03, 2022 TODD BROWN
IN ORDER TO BE OUR BEST ON RACEREADY WE'VE GOT TO STINK. Not on the start line, week(s) before. As the great Kurt Cobain said...
... become worse at what we do best.
We load up the saddle time,
load up the weights,
load up the legs.
Our fitness score skyrockets,
our freshness score plummets.
At the end of the training block we stink.
Tapering should be like tossing the muddy and salty kit into the washer, then hanging in the sun with a light breeze...
... we are Fit, Fast, and Fierce.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
I'm taperedish for tomorrow's race,
the next 10 days are going to stink...
... two more biggies comping up: XC Nats and Leadville.
It's July, half a year still ahead of us.
Use this promo code to score an InStockDesign RaceDay Calendar™ at 50% off...
... only while supplies last.
Code is RACESPIRIT
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
161ish (no scale today)
8 hrs (altitude is brutal)
Body Water 60.8% (maybe)
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit (tepering)
30 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
THE RULE OF 3 FOR RACING AT ALTITUDE
Jul 02, 2022 TODD BROWN
HAVE YOU EVER RACED AT ALTITUDE? If you're a sea leveler like me, it's quite a blow. There are some things you can do to counteract the effects of the thin air...
... and one thing you're gonna love.
Monday I'll be racing the Firecracker 50 MTB race in Breckinridge, topping out at just over 11,200' above my hometown.
Today I pre-rode the course.
Last night I was gassed...
... climbing the flight of stairs to bed.
I woke up with a moderate banger of a headache.
So, here's the deal.
It's high. I'm struggling a bit. Can't put down the power like I'd like to without feeling like my lungs my blow right out my mouth when I exhale.
There's this turd of a 1 mile climb called Little French with 20% gradient...
... nearly passed out before dropping straight down across a rocky stream.
Anyway, I promised you the rule of 3...
... either get high 3 weeks before or 3 minutes before the race starts, and whatever you do don't get there 3 days before.
- 3 days before very bad, body is at it's worst.
- 3 minutes, you still have oxygen in your system.
- 3 weeks, you're fully aclimated.
So, why would I arrive 3 days before this race?
Obviously because my sister and bro-in-law live here, and we want to hang out and watch the parade on the 4th.
But, surely there must be something more sinister?
Well, yeah. XC Nationals is in 3 weeks, just a couple of mountain passes away...
... and Leadville is 6 weeks out.
Oh, I promised you one thing you are going to love if you're coming from sea level...
... the air is so thin, you fly on the flats.
It's an amazing feeling.
You've read about world records set at altitude and thought Oh yeah, makes sense.. It doesn't. Not until you actually experience it for yourself.
One more thing, we are stairstepping it. Before this 2milehighcity, we were in UT at 5000' for a week...
... which, if you can swing it is a good way to go.
Something else I've noticed up here, is I'm not thinking the best. And I left my Mini RaceDay Bag on my gravel bike...
... I need to get a 2nd, you might too.
It's really cool, fits snug under the saddle. Holds 2 cartridges, a small multi-took, darts and a nozzle.
Just for fun, use promo code: GETHIGH and save 20%
---
161ish (no scale today)
6.5 hrs (altitude is brutal)
Body Water 60.8% (maybe)
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit (tepering)
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
MOST PEOPLE JUST DON'T WANNA DO THE WORK
Jul 01, 2022 TODD BROWN
EVERYWHERE I GO, PEOPLE WANNA KNOW what I'm doing to be so lean and riding so well. We're on a road trip, and these are all friends and family I haven't seen for a year or more...
... and it's really weird.
Not that they notice a difference.
I notice it, why wouldn't they?
But, the moment I explain the simplicity of my methods their eyes shut and their ears close...
... they just don't wanna hear the naked truth.
That!, is, weird.
Why ask then?
Oh, I know why...
... they were hoping it was a magic pill or a miracle diet.
It's not.
It's just too simple to grasp.
I start with the 4 No's:
- No Alcohol
- No Bread
- No Soda
- No Sugar
And then...
Oh, I can't do that.
I know.
I mean I could.
I know.
It sounds so hard.
I know.
I just leave it there. They don't really want it. If they did they'd take the 10-Week Challenge they would radically improve themselves...
... and realize it really isn't hard at all.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
The idea is to be Fit, Fast and Fierce...
... every day of our lives.
Do you want it?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
160.9
8 hrs
Body Water 60.8%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
IT'S NOT ENOUGH TO JUST GET STARTED
Jun 30, 2022 TODD BROWN
WE ALL START SOMEWHERE. That's the good news, because without that we are just bystanders. Who wants that...
... when you could be riding?
But, it's even better if we can get started right.
I was reminded of that this morning reading a book. The author had laid out all the steps to perfection. Unfortunately...
... the first step's assumption and information was just plain wrong.
Like the ol' climbing the latter analogy, only to find it's on the wrong wall.
Here are 3 things that make a huge difference when starting out:
- A proper bike fit, from a pro.
- Adequate nutrition and hydration.
- A good fitting short, with an excellent pad.
- A friend to show you how to brake and corner
That last one is key...
... ya gotta have a friend, or hire a coach, to speed things along.
Wait, there's one more thing...
... be the friend who gets the next new rider started right.
Of course, proper hydration without a proper leakproof bottle isn't exactly proper.
I like the clear bottles for 2 big reasons:
First, you call see how much liquid is remaining.
Second, you know that your bottle is squeaky clean.
Third, these bottles ship free.
Use promo code BUYBOTTLES to get 2 free bottles when you purchase 2 bottles.
---
163.3
7.5 hrs
Body Water 61.1%
2 Rounds of Strength Circuit
20 minutes recovery
80 minutes reading + Journaling
LUCK OR HARD WORK?
Jun 29, 2022 TODD BROWN
AT THE END OF THE RACE, we've answered one question. But, not the other. Which is the one we really want to know. Not who...
... but how?
Who won is always good to know, more so if it's us!
Which leaves us really wanting to know How?
If it was luck...
- competitors making big mistakes
- flatting just after the finish line
- genes
- etc
Or hard work...
- more time
- better discipline
- relentless racing
How is what we want to know...
... but, that is also a false god.
There's only one thing we can control, that really matters...
... how hard we work.
Aren't we lucky!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
Just don't forget your changing poncho. Because, even though you're looking great...
... we still don't want to see all of ya.
Use this promo code to save 20% through the 4th -> HARDWORK
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
---
163.
7.7 hrs
Body Water 60.8%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
20 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
YOU ARE WORTHY, YOU ARE DEVINE, YOU ARE...
Jun 28, 2022 TODD BROWN
MY DAY WAS BOOKENDED BY RIPPING, and I've just got to tell you about it. Because when things like this happen they gotta be shared...
... ya just never know who needs to hear it.
At early o'clock my nephew had me huffin' up what has to be the greatest trail network of any city this side of the Wasatch. Draper UT took their ball and stick money...
... and poured into miles and miles of eversosweet single track.
The kind that is easy to climb if you want to go easy, and a burner if you wanna burn...
... the lungs we searing.
Which was totally worth it because whoever is building these trails is extra genius...
... flowy, bermy and fastfastfast.
There is no way I could have predicted I'd be able to shred like this at this age. But here I am, an ol' grampa...
... hitting the berms so hard my tires were compressing to the rims.
But, then again who could have predicted 40 years ago that the great Carlos Santana would be headlining an outdoor concert playing old standards...
... and ripping the collabs with current artists.
At SeventyFreakinFive!!
It was incredible.
The best line he said all night, talking to the audience was...
... You are worthy, you are divine, you are badass!
Don't ever forget it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets
A great way to remember, of course, is the RaceDay Wallet™...
... maybe a custom one, to remind you of your goals
These are fun.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets
---
163.1
7.2 hrs
Body Water 61%
3 Rounds of Strength Circuit
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
ARE YOU DOING ENOUGH?
Jun 28, 2022 TODD BROWN
MY FIRST ROAD RIDE WAS 6 MILES. The next day, 12. 6 weeks later, 125, sunrise to sunset. That turned out to be my longest ride for nearly 3 decades. There's something to be said for the adage...
... Piles of Miles.
Why is that?
What is magical about doing a lot?
TRADITIONS.
Jun 27, 2022 TODD BROWN
TRADITIONS ARE LIKE CEMENT. Some make a lot of sense and bring outsized honor, like the Yellow Jersey at the Tour. Others, not so much...
... so be careful.
Strong traditions bring us together, give us a common language, keep us going when it's tough, provide consistency when we're getting pulled at all ends...
... can be the foundation for healthy, productive living.
The group ride that meets at the corner.
That one race a year we all train for.
The "training camp" we love.
They take effort to start, but they keep going if done right. New people will join, the baton will get tossed, and...
... everyone enjoys an elevated experience.
Some of the best ones are more personal, like 3 from today:
- Climb the incredible Alpine Loop in Utah
- Ride with a local friend/customer
- Get my bike tuned by the best
I hope you have, and/or are developing, some great ones, too.
Yeah, the stop at Sundance for a giant cookie and Coke is another.
Love this guy's vibe and professionalism... making him a new bag, poncho, supertech-t
Rocking these gloves and sock on the patriotic holidays is another.
For the moment, so is buy the gloves and the socks are free
---
163.3
7 hrs 81%
Body Water 61.1.%
3 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
THE SCARIEST THING I'VE LEARNED FROM STRAVA
Jun 26, 2022 TODD BROWN
LOOKING AT THE DATA FROM STRAVA, I'm sure of one thing. It's so clear, it's scary. So, I'm wondering if you've noticed it...
... and found it frightening?
Here's what I'm talking about.
Take a segment of 5 minutes or more. Check it out. Relive the last time you rode it, and you know for a fact...
... you could shave a second off of it.
Maybe more.
In no time, we can name 3 things we could do to get a new PR.
That's scary to a lot of people, me for sure,...
... to realize we are so far from our maxing out potential.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Maybe you're ready for my 10-Week RaceDay Ready Challenge
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
161.7
8.5 hrs 90%
Body Water 61.2.%
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit
10 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
ABOVE THE NOISE AND CONFUSION
Jun 25, 2022 TODD BROWN
IT DOESN'T TAKE LONG TO DETOX and the benefits are unmistakable. Every time I do it, I wonder why it's even a thing...
... shouldn't we always be clean?
It started last night.
After exploring some new single track around Grampa's cabin, we lit some logs, grilled some kabobs, eased back into the zero gravity chairs...
... the Milky Way whispering What's the hurry?
This morning, on a long, twisty single track climb above Brianhead, I found myself confronting the same call from nature...
... What's the hurry?
This is a challenging climb, just steep enough to burn, to want to dismount, to quit. A cold front was massing on the peaks to the west, dark purple skies..
... didn't help.
I was hoping the predicted rain would bring thunder and lightening and give me an excuse to pull the plug...
... to hurry back.
The forest dead silent...
... listening to me?
A spooked deer...
... watching me?
Bird song echoes...
... calling me?
I gave in.
Slowed down.
Snuggled in Mother Nature...
... continuing the 2 hour climb,gliding to the top of gusty, cold summit.
I knew why I was there.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
After a few big raindrops exploded at my feet, it was time to...
... grip it and rip it.
Right now, it's buy the amazing gloves and get the badass socks for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
Want to go faster on RaceDay? Click here.
---
162
8 hrs 72%
Body Water 601.%
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit
0 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling
THE ABC'S OF THE RACING PYRAMID
Jun 24, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE IS A HIDDEN BENEFIT TO RACING OFTEN. It ain't fitness, ain't knowing your competition, ain't skill improvement, ain't none of that. You'll see it...
... as soon as I say it.
At least you will if you race a lot. If you don't race a lot, it's invisible to you...
... you also see it, but you don't know what it is.
Those who race a lot are anxious, but not like those who don't.
Those who don't race a lot have all kinds of anxiety. They are at a huge disadvantage because their emotional energy is leaking, spouting out all over the place...
... and they haven't even crossed the start line.
Racers use a pyramid strategy to avoid all the above.
Think of the A race on top.
Two B races below.
Three C races at the base.
Got it?
I don't taper for my C races. They are just part of the year, with the added benefit of going through the raceday rituals. I have no stress, no need to accomplish X. These are a great place to try different tactics.
B races, I'll taper a bit for those. And I'll have definite tactics to implement and do all I can do to see if they work.
With the base of many C's and some B's I arrive at my A races...
... calm, a sense of serenity.
I've been here before, I know what to do, I'm anxious to execute my plan...
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... and just like every other race I pull on the best gloves and socks in the world.
I like the red, to match my helmet and pull the red accents of my race kit.
We have lots and lots of colors
Right now, it's buy the amazing gloves and get the badass socks for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
161.5
5.75hrs 72%
Body Water 601.%
4 Rounds of Strength Circuit
0 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling
ZONING OUT IN NUMERO DOS
Jun 23, 2022 TODD BROWN
ZONE 2 TRAINING HAS BECOME ESSENTIAL TO ME. There is nothing better to build a huge cardio engine...
... but that is only the half of it.
Nearly all of my zone 2 training is alone.
Like most, my schedule can get hectic, and it is a challenge to meet others for a session more than once or twice a week...
... so, it's just me.
Not only am I riding in solitude, but the majority of the rides are off-road, in nature. Or, off the highway on a bike path.
Here is where I tap into the superpower of zone 2...
... and maybe you do the same.
I noticed it long ago, when a certain infamous champion dominated cycling's collective consciousness. As I rode along, I imagined I was him. My posture changed, my cadence changed, my thoughts were elevated to those of a champion.
Years later, I realize zone 2 can be a meditative workout.
Far from the distractions of life, I am with my thoughts. Sometimes, for sure, I am envisioning a great outcome on the bike. Reviewing what I'll do in preparation, and how I will perform at a given time...
..., but, that's not all.
I take this time to imagine all areas of life having the outcomes I desire. My marriage, our kids and grandkids. Our long-term physical and spiritual health. The people I serve. And, most definitely, where PEDALindustries is headed.
That is how I do zone 2 training...
... how about you?
When I'm out for a really, really, really long zone 2 sesh, I like to have a little lotion for my bits and pieces...
... and this is my favorite.
Lasts longer and requires less than other brands.
Use promo code: ZTWO
---
163.5
7.6 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 24 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
IT ONLY TOOK ME 10 YEARS
Jun 22, 2022 TODD BROWN
WHEN THE PROMOTER OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL MID-WEEK MTB RACE came over to say Hi last night he jumped on my lap. Then, noticing I had the Race Leader jersey...
... Did you win the series?
Yep.
I'm the same age as you were when you began coming out here.
No way!
Yeah, it was then that you started to get back into racing.
He's got a good memory.
So do I...
... years of getting whacked by the fastest cats in the county.
Malcom Gladwell famously said it takes 10,000 hours to be great at something. Others have said 10 years...
... I'd have to agree, at this point.
But, what is interesting to me is along the way, through all the learning, struggling and juggling, it doesn't seem like much progress is being made. Here a little there a little, 'till one day we wake up...
... hardly recognizable to our previous self.
To outsiders it seems like overnight,
so all of the sudden,
outta nowhere.
But, those who travel the lonely road to explore their potential know different...
... they know what it took.
The victories are nice, the journey getting there is better...
... whether or not a podium is climbed.
PRs > KOMs
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Until I write the book, I'll keep encouraging you to take my 10-Week Challenge...
... it only took me 10 years to figure it out.
What are you waiting for?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Sparky Sprocket made my night... came over to introduce himself and thank me for writing The Way of The RACER because it inspired him to come out and race, and do a triathlon... nothing better than that : )
160.7
6.25hrs 78% (always hard to sleep after an evening race)
Body Water 60.%
4 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
MY MONEY IS ON THE VAMPIRE
Jun 21, 2022 TODD BROWN
I DON'T KNOW IF HE'LL WIN THE TOUR DE FRANCE FOR SURE, but I'm pretty confident he'll do better than his lauded teammate. I mean, he smoked him last year...
... so why not back him for the overall win?
He climbs like he has wings, and he looks like a vampire.
He's awfully young, you say?
I say... Whotheheck cares, he's got vampire strength!!
... and, his team is going all in on climbing, leaving Dennis and bringing Kuss.
Plus, everyone's gonna have to watch the Slovenians.
All, he has to do is act like No One Of Consequence, and be patient...
... like a heartless, bloodsucking vampire.
Who are you backing for the win?
Tadej is the obvious choice, but gimme your best 2nd choice.
---
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Speaking of the obvious choice...
... have you added these superlight and airy gloves to your wardrobe for the Fourth?
You are going to be properly patriotic that day aren't you?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
161.d
8 hrs 87%
Body Water 60.8%
1 Round of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
NO ONE OF CONSEQUENCE
Jun 20, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO MAKE YOURSELF KNOWN at a race amongst strangers. Some go The Hulk route, dancing and prancing menacingly loudly during the warm up and on the start line...
... I prefer the tact used by Dread Pirate Roberts.
In fact, I even had my favorite line from the pirate printed on my special one-off kit a few years ago...
... No One Of Consequence.
That's exactly what you want the competition thinking when they look over at you.
If you are friendly, humble, meek,
If you point things out and ignore the Hulks,
If you pull through at the correct pace vs gapping everyone,
If you ham it up on the hard efforts with your tongue hanging out...
... competitors will automatically take you off the predator list.
Then, you move in for the kill.
---
The thing about the Dread Pirate Roberts was he had all kinds of skills and tricks...
... if you're up for a challenge to learn some of mine Click here.
---
163.9 (Fatter's Day)
7 hrs 81%
Body Water 60.9%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
NO POWER METER NEEDED
Jun 19, 2022 TODD BROWN
YOU DON'T NEED A POWER METER. You don't need a coach. It's June, the days are long, kids out of school...
... and something great is on your calendar.
Everything is getting easier.
Right?
No.
Not really..
Actually, not one bit.
It only seems easier because you have developed a super power...
... persistence.
A power meter can be helpful,
a good coach transformative,
as long as you persist...
... in carving your own personal greatness.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Isn't it great to live in a country where you can do that?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
162.3
9.5 hrs 88%
Body Water 60.8%
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps +0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
L' GO MY LEGO
Jun 18, 2022 TODD BROWN
HE DIDN'T MEAN ANYTHING BY IT. Was just trying to be nice, helpful. I've done the same thing, and met the same response...
... Get your hand off my back!
It happened while the group was charging up an 8 minuteish climb, culminating with The Wall. And it's a wall.
But this was a bit earlier, when the speeds were still in the high teens...
... and I was quickly moving backwards.
I didn't want the help, not because it's kinda humiliating (yeah, I'm proud that way) but because it's the end of a big building block week. Lots of miles, lots of lifting...
... the legs are heavy and I wanted to enjoy all the pain.
Not be ripped off from a push,
by a guy,
on an
ebike!
That's part of the big week experience, big heavy, big pain...
... big push through it.
Sounds like I'm having a baby.
But, that's kinda what a big build period is...
... giving birth to a shiny new you.
Each week is a like a lego piece, a block to build on. Another one next week, then the real racing starts on 7/4...
... can't wait!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Speaking of 7/4...
... you know what gloves and socks I'll be rocking at the Firecracker 50!
You are going to be properly patriotic that day aren't you?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
162.8
7 hrs 73%
Body Water 61%
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps +0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
NOTHING LAST FOREVER
Jun 17, 2022 TODD BROWN
NOTHING LAST FOREVER. Why is that so hard to remember, especially when racing. Not the tallwind blowing us up the road, not the highhigh climb pounding us into submission...
... it all will change.
I was going over race strategies with a friend today who was mentally rehearsing his planned training ride tomorrow. He's prepping for Leadville.
I'm gonna charge every hill as hard as I can.
You shouldn't do that.
But, I want to.
Yeah, you and every other sparklypuppy with fresh legs on raceday. You do that and you'll be blown to pieces on the second half of the race.
.... hmmm....
Not hmmm, you want to be humming because that freshness is gonna fade into superstaleawfulness.
What should I do?
The first thing we should do is remember nothing lasts forever.
Not the pleasures,
nor the pains,
of racing.
We need to embrace the pain and grind through it...
... and embrace the pleasure and make it last.
These are superpowers only those on the edge of personal paramount performance learn to harness.
---
You know what else doesn't last forever? Riding buddies. The great Chris is moving away in a few weeks, today was our last ride together...
... cherish your friends, they will eventually move on too.
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
162.3
7.8 hrs 88%
Body Water 61%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
AIMLESS MAN MAKES DISCOVERY!
Jun 16, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE IS NOTHING LIKE RIDING with no particular place to go. While aimlessness is looked down upon in general...
... on a bike, it's the best.
Like today.
My only objective was to find the roughest trails around so i could further refine my suspension set up. The goal is to max out the travel once on every ride...
... that's the full party mode.
Best tracking through corners,
smoothest ride,
max speeds.
So, when I came across a sign for a new2me trail that read Everything's Getting Worse...
... I couldn't resist.
It's newish,
quite skinny,
carved into a steep hillside,
with very tight switch backs,
culminating in controlled skid through a slot canyon...
... perfect.
Aimlessness wins the day, yet again.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
You know who wasn't aimless? Benjamin Franklyn, maybe the best autobiography I ever read.
Just another reason to rock the red, white and blue next month...
... are you ready?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
160.7
7.75 hrs 83%
Body Water 60%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
THE 3 Ps OF REAL ATHLETES
Jun 15, 2022 TODD BROWN
I'D BE LYING IF I DIDN'T TELL YOU I LOVE ATHLETES MORE than non-athletes. We are kin. I get you, no matter your sport...
... I just do.
But, something has changed these past few years.
It's not the same.
I still enjoy watching pro athletes perform, but not nearly as much as I have enjoyed probing...
... the very edges of personal potential with my comrades.
Out here, on the edges, time is precious.
More precious.
Limited.
Cutting the fluff, time spent watching (anything but our closest family and friends), has been instrumental...
... to learning what is possible and what works.
That's why I love the real athletes, why I connect with them at the dinner party, why we bond while waiting in line...
... we are on the same path to paramount personal potential.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Isn't it wonderful to be free to pursue this path...
... and the positivity that spills into everything else we do?!
I cherish their vision and bravery, and look forward each year to feel the spirit of the 4th.
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
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Want to go faster? Click here.
160.2
7 hrs 78%
Body Water 60.2%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
