Access Denied
IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts
Todd’s Journal
Your are successfully subscribed for email notifications.
Notify me when available
We will send you a notification as soon as this product is available again.
Your email is required
We don't share your email with anybody
x
Get RaceDay Ready
HR TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
THERE'S NOTHING QUITE LIKE the joy of climbing with friends to a distant peak and poking through the clouds. Summiting is like having...
... the top of the world to ourselves.
All is calm.
Bombing down the mostly unfamiliar other side...
... not so calm.
Heaven forbid we'd let a gap open and get left behind.
Already on the edge of grip, I came into a sweeping lefthand turn...
... a negative radius, sloping downward.
I drifted all the way wide to the soft bulldozed berm.
Exiting, it was nothing but steep with ruts and rocks competing for my attention.
It wasn't looking good.
Somehow I managed to wiggle through the gauntlet.
My HR now sky high.
Only one thing to do, let out a huge...
... WOOOOHOOOOO!!!
Sheesh, my heart skipped a beat just reliving and writing this.
It.
Was.
Awesomeness.
Had I gone down,
I wouldn't have died.
But, it woulda been a bloody mess firshur.
Glad I kept my eyes open
and arms relaxed,
the tires held...
... just another reason to be grateful this time of year.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/96/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WHO KNEW WE WERE THAT BAD?
THE PROGRESS WE MAKE can be kind of embarrassing. We don't know it at the time. In fact, we're having so much fun those early pics and vids...
... can be kind of embarrassing.
There's hope.
Bad athletes,
can get good.
Good athletes,
can be great.
Great athletes...
... know the secret.
Keep doing it.
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/82/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
THE OTHER 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
A LOT OF US plan to do some superspecialsecret training when nobody is looking in the coming days. Some are going so far as to...
... do the outrageous.
A gift to ourselves.
Which reminds me of one my pals who each year would ride a century 12 days in a row.
That was his goto way to start the year with a bunch of base miles.
Of course, the family and friends all thought that was...
... akin to getting coal for Christmas.
Personally, my overarching diabolical (counter season or counter intuitive?) plan is to...
- play around on jumps and technical stuff
- catch up with friends
- have fun
... make the training count.
What are you planning for 12/25 thru 1/6
While you're thinking about that...
... I'm sharing this kit with you in the off chance you're looking so spoil yourself with something outrageously sexy...
You can get it for full price here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dusty-shins-collection
Or, 50% savings here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/84/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
IS IT TOO LATE TO GO PRO?
THE SALARIES of the tops pro seem fantastic. The lifestyle unbeatable. Who doesn't want to get...
... paid to train and travel the world?
Sign me up.
But...
... it's too late, you're too old, you lack talent, you don't have time, you're too young, your equipment sucks, your friends and family won't approve, you'll nevereverver freakin' make it...
... SILENCE!
Though we may not get paid,
our travel will be less exotic,
we can still focus on...
- a specified activity
- honing our craft
- doing our best
... it's never to late to be pro.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WE WON THE LOTTERY!
WE DON'T DREAM enough. At least most of us. When we do, and I'm not talkin' 'bout shut eye...
... we change our state.
Great things are suddenly possible.
I was reminded of this yesterday...
... my son was going to buy a lottery ticket.
He does this when it's over a billion.
I told him how much...
- it allows us to dream
- things we'd change
- do or never do
... I love and hate the lottery.
Name one thing you'd do?
I'd never get up to an alarm clock again?
Later, I reflected on my greatest day on the bike.
In 2022.
The insane Leadville goal of...
- a PR
- sub-8 hrs
- at age 60
... and how I did it.
The dream of sub-9 at sixty started years prior.
Always in the back of my mind.
But, there.
How it would feel to be in that kind of shape.
The closer the date got,
the more real it became.
Until I believed I could not only go sub-9,
but shatter my 6 previous efforts.
We can win our own lottery...
- crystal clear
- detailed
- belief
... if we'll just start dreaming.
===
166lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/91/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
IS IT THE SACRIFICE?
WHY DO SOME OF US stick with the endurance thing year after year after year and others check in for a season or two then check out...
... never to return?
There is something unseen happening.
I think I know what it is.
Sacrifice.
For better or worse...
- could be skipping a new car for a better bike
- an hour later out at night for an early run
- a quick swim instead of a tv binge
... we've sacrificed something.
That sacrifice produces the faith necessary to really go for it,
go for that insane physical goal we've set.
It gives us hope.
And, we love that...
... in everything we do.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/93/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
YOU'RE GONNA SAY THIS IS IT
THINGS AREN'T GOING to go according to plan. Everything is going to go south. Everything. And you're going to say this is it..
... This is how I end.
You can accept that,
or you can get to work.
That's all it is.
You just begin.
Solve one problem.
And then the next.
If you solve enough problems...
... you get to cross the finish line.
Adapted from the closing scene of The Martian.
It's a long movie,
about solving problems,
which is what we do the moment...
... we register for a race or commit snagging that elusive PR.
(highly recommend the movie)
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
8sh hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/95/-7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
IF WE'RE REALLY LUCKY, and we (you n me) are, we'll stumble into something that keeps us endlessly fascinated. No matter how much we do it, or how long we put it on pause...
... it is always, ALWAYS, a ton a fun.
How can we do it forever?
At a high level?
Before I tell ya the answer...
- age
- friends
- failure to progress
... we gotta accept the challenges.
1. If we aren't on point with our health choices, age may ravish us...
... and not the sexy kind.
2. As the playground circles the sun...
... many of our friends will hang it up (see #1.)
3. Failure to progress...
... leads to boredom.
Today, I hooked my sassy grin...
- rode with younger cats
- picked up a new trick
- pushed my limits
... up to the firehose of youth.
1. Lucked into shredding a lot of single track with Steve and Brian...
... the schedules aligned, the conversations vibrant.
2. Coming in hot to a corner, Steve locked up the rear wheel...
... Why did you do that? To vector the turn and change trajectory.
3. Brian, did you launch off that rock?...
... Yeah, came around the turn so fast I had to.
The real secret to the fountain of youth...
... making and keeping young friends.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE HIDDEN ADVANTAGE
WE'RE BUSY. We work. Raise families. Participate in communities. Do our duties...
... what's our hidden advantage?
Just that.
We know how to...
- schedule
- pacify
- lead
... and we have perspective.
Which is what sets us apart,
keeps us in the hunt...
... 'till we cross the finish line.
===
164 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
DARE OR DARE NOT
SOMEWHERE AROUND 8 YEARS OLD, we learn of daring. Someone gets dared. We don't even know what the word means and, yet...
... we do.
Because there is tone.
An unsaid judgment.
I dare you.
Our response...
- bold
- calm
- weak
... means everything.
Later in life, that cat in the mirror still dares us...
... if we are lucky.
What are you daring yourself to do in 2026?
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SHOW A FRIEND AROUND TOWN?
GETTING A LONG-DISTANCE FRIEND TO VISIT is mostly rare, for most of us. We post to Starva, talk up our locale...
... to the point of bragging.
Then, the friend shows up.
Suddenly, we're wondering...
- will they be impressed
- can they keep up
- will they crash
... how this is gonna go down>
There was a time when Surfergirl would take such visiting friends aside and whisper...
... Be careful, he's kinda crazy.
Couldn't blame her as more than a few returned bleeding,
one with a broken bone.
It wasn't on purpose.
- I'd just forget
- be in the zone
- having a blast
... thinking they were doing the same.
The local, me...
... could rip the trails blindfolded.
Everyone else was riding blind.
Anyway...
... Tim did great today.
(I knew he would, and didn't really back it down at all.)
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/91/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GOOD NEWS: THERE'S HOPE!
THIS TIME OF YEAR, the schedule gets crowded. The company parties, family get togethers, community events...
... we want to attend 'em all.
It eats into the training time.
And, that's good.
Just yesterdee, Surfergirl reminded me of our date to see Gentry.
Her favorite trio was in town for a Christmas concert.
Driving down, we wondered if we'd run into any friends,
walking in we saw my brother and sisterinlaw...
... seating, we were astonished.
We were exactly right behind them.
Couldn't have planned it better,
total surprise.
But, that's not the point.
We were carried away in the spirit of the night...
... all the world's nonsense, forgotten.
When we returned home, there was a package on the doorstep.
Incredible...
... a customer had hand made classic ornaments for each of our family members.
As a gift.
The real point is if we'll shut off the news, the pointless socials and get out to events and people we love we find...
... there's hope!
Hoping you'll find plenty of time to share your love for others in the coming weeks.
===
162.2 lbs/12.2%
7.5 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/86/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE BEST FREE ADVICE YOU NEVER PAID FOR
WE ALL GET ACHES AND PAINS. Mostly, we just blow 'em off knowing in a few days things will right themselves. At least that's the idea. But, we are organic...
... our equipment is not.
It won't self heal,
like our miraculous bodies.
No matter how much positive energy we send it...
... those creaks won't go away on their own.
We gotta respect and inspect 'em.
I mean really figure it out.
Lemme splain it.
I've had an annoying creak for a couple of weeks.
Finally, last Friday...
- removed cranks
- checked, cleaned bottom bracket
- found a broken bolt on the chain ring spider
... thought that'd solve everything.
Mostly, kinda.
However, last steep climbs at end of Saturday's ride indicated problem not resolved.
Took into the shop for professional treatment.
Ace mechanic gives me a call.
It's not good.
How bad.
Axle in hub is cracked.
Yikes.
Yeah, it coulda been bad.
How bad?
Well, if it broke while riding it would have destroyed the hub innards, and...
And, what?
... and possibly locked up the wheel.
Now, I dunno how things are where you live, but on that ride I'd just finisihed...
... I hit 35 mph over a rocky, gravel fire road.
Had that wheel locked up...
... I'd be dead, at best.
Consider this the best free advice you Never paid for...
- bike
- bones
- muscles
... Fix thy creaks!
===
162.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HAVE YOU HAD A CLASSY SMOKE, LATELY?
CELEBRATING AN EPIC EFFORT is, can be, a powerful factor in repeatability. You know, whether or not we ever do it again and...
... gain the associated benefits.
Old time movies we so classy.
In black and white.
Couple meets,
goes to dinner and dancing,
the very next scene we see...
... they are covered up, smoking in bed!!!
Here's how we do it most Saturdays.
Meet up at the corner,
hit it hard for 3-4 hours,
the next thing we know...
... we're at the country store.
Cokes, RedBulls, chips, even had Zingers yesterday...
... our version of smoking in bed.
===
Now, here's the diabolical brainwashing science...
- guaranteeing many repeat performances
... celebrating with lots of sugar and caffeine burns those good feelings in.
===
165.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
APPRECIATING A ROUGH START
FOR SOME GETTING STARTED is easy, for other it's hard. Even messy. So, what's better...
... an easy start or a tricky start?
Take today.
We'd climbed 4141', 13.4 miles.
The start, though steep, was pretty smooth.
The final 4.5 miles, were quite a bit rougher.
Lots of rocks.
I really suffered that last 2ish miles.
After a bit of a break,
it was time to plummet back down.
We pushed the pace pretty good those first 4 1/2 miles...
... over terrain I've flatted on many times.
I knew the next 9 miles were smoother, but...
... after the previous beating they seemed like a freeway.
We screamed down.
Surprisingly, I posted my 3rd fastest time ever.
(In case you're wondering if that was my 3rd time down, it was my 44th since 2012, per Starva)
This served as a good reminder...
... if we push through a rough start, we gain the skills to go much faster.
===
Further update on the Conti Dubitals...
- they roll reallyreallyreally fast
- corner dependably at high speed
- seem to be pretty darn puncture resistant
... I'm loving 'em.
Looking forward to playing with pressures,
I think I can run lower than the 16 and 17 I ran today.
(that was in the cold garage, before the heated up on the actual ride which would increase the pressure by a few pounds)
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/107/-18 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT ARE WE RIDING SATURDAY?
WE ALL HAVE A RHYTHM TO OUR TRAINING. We have a favorite rotation of workouts, training partners, intensity...
... just like the goto dinner schedule.
When all else fails, I know spaghetti and meat balls is a winner.
No matter what I have planned.
When it comes to Saturdays, the...
- crew
- pace
- route
... I have a few defaults.
If I've had two hard sessions during the week,
I'm leaning towards a longish sweetspot/tempo ride.
If the week only had one high intensity completed,
I'm gonna wring it out on Saturday.
This week's Wednesday Worlds was kinda hard, therefore...
... tomorrow I have a nasty 1ish hour uphill TT planned.
The younsters are gonna make me hurt.
Can't wait!
How do you do it?
===
165.6 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TACKY, TORQUEY TESTING... CONTI DUBNITALS
GETTING NEW EQUIPMENT is always fun. Usually, it is preceded by all kinds of Kool-Aid drinking. You know, the marketing team laying it on thick...
... and our friends laughing at our antiquated ways.
This week, I bit.
Finally jumped to wider tires.
From 2.2 RaceKing in back and 2.2 CrossKing in front to...
... 2.4 Dubnitals, front and rear.
My testing took place on our local single tracks...
... while doing low-cadence, torque climbing in Zone 2.
I'd rip down,
ponder performance on way back up.
Going from 2.2 to 2.4 doesn't appear to be much,
the tires are a bit lighter than the 2.2s
My initial...
- they go from edge to edge much quicker
- seem to roll very fast
- traction is great
... reactions.
I think they're gonna be a great upgrade,
will test on the smoking fast downhills, Saturday.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MUTUALLY ASSURED DESTRUCTION
IF IT TAKES A VILLAGE to raise a child, then, for us, it obviously takes a group to train us up proper. The right gaggle...
... has countless benefits.
Number 1 being speed.
Which is why I did the Wednesday Worlds today, and rolled right into...
... Pain Cave.
When we're on form,
this is an hour segment of riding just below detonation.
Today was much easier...
- the group was slowish
- BBB and I cruised Pain Cave
- catching up and discussing next year's goals
... we were 5 minutes off the PRs.
That will come down because we committed to some rather outlandish goals.
Which means, we'll be pressing the pace on the WW ride,
then duking it out on Pain Cave.
Leading to our mutually assured destruction the rest of the work day...
... and, what we hope will be a massively successful 2026 campaign.
===
If we do it correctly, we'll sprout wings.
Deal below.
Use promo code: VELOBONES
To save 20% on any t-shirt in the collection.
Expires on 12.5.25
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
===
165.4 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/95/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
420 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
OTB OR OTB?
WE HAVE ALL THESE CODE WORDS and acronyms in our culture. The deeper we get into it...
... the cryptic they become.
Here's the mechanic's favorite...
... I was just riding along.
His eye's roll and he scribbles on the notes...
... JRA.
I heard another from a shop owner who was barely hanging on and his "loyal" patrons were constantly asking for discounts and free stuff...
... he called them Freetards.
I've been guilty of both of those and quickly cleaned up my evil ways once I got the hint.
But, this one...
... it's been hard to stay away from.
OTB.
This one is a two-fer,
I can't get it out of my mind lately.
Off the back...
... which is where I seem to be finding myself a little more than my liking.
Over the bars...
... luckily, my recent wipeouts have been on solo rides.
===
165.8 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU CHOPPING WOOD?
WE ALL HAVE A FAVORITE MOVIE, book or story. One that inspires us to be more than we currently are, or return to a place we once dominated. These myths are important because...
... they can lead and guide us to a better future.
Truly powerful.
One of my all time favorites is Rocky IV.
Rocky, seeing his once enemy, the great Apollo Creed, who became his friend and mentor, get crushed by a Russian giant...
... decides he must do something completely different.
He must go...
- runs
- pulls a sled
- carries logs
- throws boulders
- chops down a tree
... to snowy and freezing Siberia.
Maybe it's winter,
maybe it's cold...
... maybe they only way to get nasty fit is chopping wood like Rocky.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
00 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
EARNING VS LEARNING
LIFE IS LIKE AN EPIC CARD GAME. We're dealt our genetic hand. As little children, we have no idea...
... we're just running around having fun.
Somewhere around the age of 8 or so we realize...
... we're not all created equal.
I can throw,
my aim is woeful.
I can run,
my friends are faster.
I can swim,
holding my breath is a struggle.
Most of us here, found we love to endure...
... persistence and suffering are out super powers.
We can't earn our way to a sub-4 minute mile, but...
... we can learn how to be faster and more efficient.
That's the journey we are on.
Learning how to be our best.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TRAINING BLOCKHEAD
FOR MANY OF US, this is the time to back things down. Pick up a sporty side hustle. Hit the weights...
... do something different.
Makes sense.
The next season is a long way off.
Just one problem.
Physics.
You can't shoot a cannon from a canoe.
Meaning, when the season does come around, we're going to need a good base from which to start launching our hard efforts.
So, whatawee 'posed ta do?
Personally, I'm gonna...
- have fun
- be more socisl
- challenge my skills
... while logging some solid base mile.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
6.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/107/-20 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU COMFY?
WE HEAR A LOT ABOUT comfort zones. How we want to avoid them because they hold us back, lead us to settling for...
... more than we can be.
Who wants that?
Things I think about after a less frightful drop down one of my all time favorite descents.
I held the KOM at one point,
still top 11.
Back than, I was really, really at ease on that screamer...
... in a state of flow, relaxed.
Comfy.
The good kind.
Yesterday, on the same segment, I was a hot mess.
Smiley on my rear wheel, showing his front wheel, asking...
... Are you riding cautious?
I wanted to say...
... Heck no, and Screw you!
Things were not flowing,
I was gripping.
Hard.
It was very uncomfortable because I haven't been on my MTB much the last year or so.
Practice leads to comfy,
comfy leads to flow,
flow leads to ripping.
Effortlessly.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/94/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THERE'S A LEGENDARY CLIMB
SOARING 5600' ABOVE SEA LEVEL, we have access to a legendary climb. A gravel fire road. It's the kind of challenge we can sink our teeth into, get a baseline for our fitness...
... set legit goals.
The mountain ain't movin'...
- 9 miles
- 3000'
- 6.3%
... but, we are.
The KOM is held by current world tour pro Kevin Vermaerke,
which he probably set in the NICA days.
53:10
The next 9 are local legends...
... the legit kind, not the goofy Starva thing.
There are two ways to view...
- I'm slow, and I suck
- I'm slow, and I can improve
- I'm slow, and I'm dawgawn grateful to be ripping with my pals
... today's traditional Thanksgiving effort.
One more takeaway.
When I set my PR, we lived much closer to the mountain and I'd ride it 3-4 times a month.
It was a goto.
And, it got me thinking...
... if I wanna slay like that again, I gotta do it more.
Maybe every week for the rest of 2025,
and chop 18 minutes off today's time?
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
84/90/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I NEVER LIFTED WEIGHTS UNTIL I GOT INTO THE NFL...
MOST OF US ARE PROBABLY HEADING OUT for the local turkey trot or some sort of holiday ride. It's tradition, followed by the traditional...
... Did you ride or run today?
Which deserves...
... Yes, and the sun also rose this morning.
Earning an...
... I bet your hungry!
Usually followed by a...
... I didn't know you could eat so much pie!
At some point someone will turn on "the game".
As full as we are,
as much as that lycra gonna be stressed tomorrow...
... we realize endurance training doesn't favor or create massive muscles.
Which brings me to one of my all time favorite athletes...
... the Great Hershel Walker.
Dude was devastating in college and NFL.
This quote must have been so humiliating to those left flattened on the field....
- 2000-3000 pushups/day
- 3000-5000 crunches/day
- hundreds of pullups/day
- hundreds of dips/day
- air squats and lunges thousands
- 20-50 yard sprints
... I never lifted weights until I got into the NFL.
Damn.
We may not be - ok, never will be - built like Hershel, but...
... kinda makes ya wonder how much stronger we could be.
Dedicating little time,
from home.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
20 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/82/0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STRATEGY VS THE DREAM
LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR yet? Maybe it's too early, I mean jeez it's not even Thanksgiving yet. But, almost...
... so, it might not be too soon.
There's no rule on that.
I was thinking about this on my ride yesterday.
What comes first...
... strategy or the dream.
Especially with all the InfooIncers on the socials.
You know which ones kill me....
... literally saw this one today...
... Download My 47 Points To Master Advertising Now!
hahahahahah
But, you get the idea.
We can get so hyped up on a new (to us) strategy...
- Single-legged box jumps while hula-hooping for explosive sprinting
- One million grams of carbohydrate from bonking to crushing
- Sleep like a grizzly and maul the group ride
... we start looking for a race to unleash.
I've done it,
still do it.
We can all be suckers,
the cons are as appealing as the conmen.
Anyway, what I concluded after zonetwoing my way around town was...
... The Field of Dream if we build it, they will come...
... is kinda right.
The players, errr strategies, don't show up until the field is built.
In other words, once we identify the...
- A race
- impossible PR
- unconquerable route
... then, and only then, will the strategies we need be apparent.
Let me say it differently.
We can quickly toss aside...
- techniques
- strategies
- hacks
... the worthless dross.
Because the really good stuff that works is easy to see...
... once we have our dream/goal/desire firm and clear in our minds.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/74/7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
NOT AS GOOD?
JOURNALISTS ARE SO MUCH SMARTER than us fans, they have incredible insights we just can't fathom. Why it's a wonder we even...
... bother seeing with our own eyes.
This is gold.
A journo says...
... MVdP is nowhere near as good as Tadej.
On the heels of saying...
... MVdP beat Tadej on the races he wanted to win.
He being MVdP,
and he being Tadej.
Wait,
what?
He's not as good,
but he beats him?
Oh, journo.
Here's the dill, and...
... it's a good lesson for us lowly amachuros.
On certain courses...
... certain riders are unbeatable.
The challenge is to find our course.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/12 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
MY VICE IS TERRIBLE, MY CULT IS WORSE
FEW OF US HAVE BEEN TO AN AA MEETING, but we've seen TV/movie version many times. Hi, I'm Todd and...
... I'm an endurance junkie.
Hi Todd.
When we come clean with the general population, Today I...
- swam 10,000 yards
- rode for 5 hours
- ran 20 miles
... they think we're crazy.
We're not.
The adrenaline rush of ...
- 60 miles an hour in nothing but lycra
- the swimmers blue mind
- the runner's high
... we need that hit.
Regularly.
This risks we take...
- sending it down the mountain
- running along into the cold, dark night
- impossibly holding our breath one more length
... would freakout any life insurance company.
These sensations of pushing well beyond normal, reasonable, safe...
... are often all that's keeping us stable.
In all sincerity, because the allure of the lottery and dulling our senses with substances is so very tempting and tragically treacherous...
... stay dangerous my friends.
The sane kind.
===
165.4 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/70/11 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HOW WE SOLVE PROBLEMS
SOME PROBLEMS ARE HARDER than others to solve. It can be frustrating when the answers just aren't coming. This is...
... how I solve my problems.
It's a question of time, right?
The truly unsolvable problems need marinating...
- clearly identify what needs to be solved
- set aside time
- get outside
... during a very lazy ride, run or swim.
The only goal is to solve the problem.
A stop for a pastry and drink is often required...
... I carry a journal and a pen to help me flush out ideas.
The best problems take require more...
- miles
- creativity
- "fuel" stops
... 3 or 4 or a lot more sessions.
Just today I was trying to figure out what to focus on...
- goals
- events
- milestones
... for next year.
Went for a ride,
had a brainstorm,
came home to the Giant calendar.
And they think we ride just for fun and fitness!
===
165 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/81/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BECAUSE IT'S BEAUTIFUL
WE ALL HAVE A WAY to perform. Whether it's vanquishing, showing off, sufferfesting, truly enjoying every moment, our individual efforts...
... leave a lasting impression.
On others,
on ourselves.
Is there a best way?
Right way?
Only way?
Let us not gaze into our own navel but...
- racers
- promoters
- business leaders
- matriarchs and patriarchs
- community and governments
... appreciate for better or worse.
It is what it is.
I was recently struck by a singer...
- unknown by most
- unwilling to submit to label demands
- who died without much fame or fortune at 33
... sold more than 10,000,000 records posthumously.
What?!... how? who?
The great Eve Cassidy sang as if every song was a gift to the listener,
with uncommon love and passion.
Nothing more.
May we all do our thing with such beauty.
===
Pull down her tracks on your music app... good wrenching vibes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4C1_oNzhU7U
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/65/16 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ON THE GAS
A LITTLE KNOWN SECRET to not falling over is going faster. It's counterintuitive. But, it's the first thing we taught the kids when they started riding motos in the desert...
... speed is our friend.
Then why did I suffer so badly last weekend in a desert-bound gravel race?
You didn't have a motor Dingdong!
No, it's more than that...
... and I've thought about it a lot this week.
The 92-mile race
- low gradient climbs and descents
- long, long straight roads
- mostly flat
... provided very little coasting.
We had to stay on the gas.
It's not like the terrain here,
most of my ride profiles look like a lumberjack's saw blade.
Anyway, I'm thinking about that this week because I'm starting to do sweetspot training...
... 90% of FTP, without coasting.
I've got to stay on the gas (the pedals).
It's hard to do when we have so many punchy climbs and lots of turns.
But, I'm a committed fool when it comes to this stuff.
===
By the way, you might be one of the horde who loved this jersey...
... which means you'll probably love the kit.
If you wanna rock this awesomeness click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
There's an insane offer, so don't forget to click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/67/14 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
>
TAKE TWO, AND CALL ME IN THE MORNING
GETTING A COLD is annoying. Can't train like we want to, can't sleep well, hard to be productive. If we get near our lover fingers are raised in an X...
... so, what do we do?
To speed it up.
There are my goto...
- Zicam at first hint
- Pollo Loco tortilla soup
- Insanely hot and long showers
... rider's tales.
Then there's what I did today...
... which could massively backfire, tomorrow.
I woke up,
it was cold.
I had a cold,
and hemmed and hawed.
I consulted my alter ego Dr. Goforit, who said...
- raise your body temperature
- the nose will start to flow
- blow that gunk out
... Put on a kit and get on two wheels.
Torture.
I've had mixed success over the years.
I'll either be on my way to pneumonia...
... or good as new tomorrow.
===
165 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE GODLY CONNECTION IS STRONG IN THIS ONE
BEING OUTSIDE and unplugged is more than just an escape from "the real world". Most people in "modern society" rarely experience what that is like. We do because...
... that's where we thrive.
And, we're moving fast.
Even if we're practicing our craft daily,
and the whether is good,
we could use more.
Not less.
I experienced a snippet of much more on our road trip.
We took time to visit the land my greatgreatgrandfather homesteaded 100 years ago.
No one else was there but us.
Access is via a gravel road,
10 miles from a 2-lane highway.
No cell service.
The only inputs,
each other and nature.
The peace and solitude remarkable.
Over night, the temps dipped low enough to freeze the rain puddles from the prior evening.
We were cozy,
the van has a heater.
Still, when we rose to stretch and visit this hallowed land filled with childhood and parenthood memories...
... we were shocked by the reality of nature.
Not in a negative way,
one that makes you feel alive,
connected to more than a paycheck and bills.
To God.
To acquire the land...
- the extreme temps at 7000'
- the distance by horse or wagon to town
- the loneliness during the months no one came to visit
... E. M. Whiting had to stay on it and not leave, for two years.
How else could he make such a sacrifice if not feeling a closeness to his creator?
I feel it when I'm...
- there
- in the surf
- on our local trails
... and love it.
Need it.
And so...
- walk
- hike
- ride
- run
- surf
- swim
- camp
... we keep inviting and encouraging our friends to join us.
Outside.
===
164.2 lbs/12.6%
9ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MIRROR, MIRROR, ON THE...
DISNEY CREATED AN EMPIRE animating fairytales. Because the appeal is so strong, with little to no cultural barriers we have to ask ourselves not just why, but...
... which is our favorite.
Then, why?
Personally, Cinderella is my top choice.
Not just the story arc,
the snappy dances,
or catchy songs.
There's an orphan in all of us.
Often we don't see who we really are,
out talents lying dormant.
Could be naysayers,
could be something else.
It's nice that Price Charming is a price,
it's charming that he sees Cinderella as she really is.
The point isn't...
- Where's my prince charming?
- Who will save the day for me?
- Why am I not picked?
... to wallow in our sorrows.
The point is for whom are we Prince Charming?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
9ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/67/16 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT’S IN OUR DNA
TOO FEW OF US know our family history. Some barely know cousins. Great-grandparents? Forget about it. It’s just not a thing. And, yet…
… what could be more important?
To know their stories,
is to know ourselves.
Which is why we drove hours out of our way after the bike race.
Here in eastern Arizona, to soak of our roots.
Surfergirl’s great-grandfather helped settle Snowflake,
my great-great grandfather helped settle Saint Johns.
They are neighboring towns,
about 20 miles apart.
And the communities were quite friendly with each other.
You’d think we grew up out here,
and that’s how we met and married.
Not so.
I was born and raised in SoCal,
she was raised in Hawaii.
Maybe somethings are meant to be.
But, that’s not really the point.
This is hard country,
the high desert.
To carve a life and community out of nothing took strength, smarts, and massive cooperation…
… the same qualities it takes to complete very challenging endurance events.
Who is an ancestor that inspires you?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/87/-0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I WANNA PUT A DENT IN THAT GIRL
IN THE HEAT OF BATTLE we can say and do the craziest things. You know things we might not normally say or do. And, at the time...
... they sound/seem totally normal.
Like today.
I had the awesome opportunity to flat 15 minutes into the 92 mile race...
... suddenly I'm swearing like a sailor.
It wasn't horrific,
still, glad no one was around.
Spent the next 50 miles basically riding by myself.
Doing my best.
Jumping from group to group.
I roll up on one of the female leaders,
bridge across to another badass Barbie.
And, I hear her say the funniest thing...
... I wanna put a dent in that girl.
Speaking of the other racer.
I visualize a halloween scene,
hatchet stuck in the helmet.
Hahaha.
Then the crass, neanderthal in me thinks...
... that sounds like something I'd like to do on date night.
Not the hatchet...
... if you know what I mean.
These crazy thoughts are birthed in our very depleted states, as we...
... do our best to stay upright and moving forward.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY WOULD ANYBODY GO TO DOUGLASS, AZ?
RACING VENUES ARE HARD TO COME BY, especially in big cities. Almost impossible. The result is the bigger the race, the more likely we are to travel...
... someplace we've never been.
Would never go.
Here I am,
two hours south of Tucson,
on the Mexican border, in Douglass, AZ.
This gravel race has the same vibe as my first Leadville,
back in '99.
Small town,
somewhat forgotten.
Which makes it a perfect place to stage a gravel race...
... surrounded my endless gravel roads.
I decided to sponsor the race for three reasons...
- Mike, the promoter, is hella nice and persistent.
- He's a huge fan of our products
- I'm a huge fan of gravel races
... which are the only reasons to sponsor anything.
Passion and admiration for what each other are doing.
Funny story.
I have actually been here before.
Back in the 80's.
I was doing missionary work in Mexico and our visas needed to be renewed. Five us youngsters piled in a van and hit to Agua Prieto, MX. The plan was to walk across to Douglass, wait five minutes and walk back with new visas.
We were greeted with...
... No, no gringo. No se puede asi. (Not so fast whitey, you can't do it like that.)
So we...
- spent the night in Motel 6
- chomped Pizza Hut
- watched ESPN
... forgot all our Spanish.
And crossed back the next day.
I'm guessing Borderlands gravel will be slightly more challenging.
Good night now.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/64/18 (fitness/fatigue/form) ... somebody is tapered!
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HURRY UP
IN OUR EFFORTS TO GET FASTER, we often think of the many benefits. Mainly health, youthfulness. And truth is...
... we are better than most, not as good as some.
Who's better?
By that, do you mean...
... how could anybody be better???
We are aerobic machines, and that is a key to longevity.
Mostly.
Here are...
- Sprints
- Weights
... the missing ingredients.
I know, I know...
- sprinting sucks
- weights can be dangerous
- and, for the weenies in the back, who wants to gain weight?
... what you're thinking.
According to research, when we lift weights not only do our bones get denser but there are intra-muscular gains to be made that we cannot get any other way.
You know what else is weird, most people in our culture never sprint again after their early twenties.
So, here's the main takeaway from all scientific facts do 'em and...
... move faster, age slower.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/71/13 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GIVERS
THERE ARE THOSE WHO VOLUNTEER selflessly and those who volunteer selfishly. Both are admirable. In fact, when I was a race promoter it blew my mind that...
... people just reach out and offer their assistance.
Just giving where there's an obvious need.
I ran into a selfish one tonight.
The sun had set,
my headlight was on.
I was making my way cautiously because the ruts on this particular trail are bad and...
... there's an enormous sinkhole that might kill ya.
As a get there...
... did I say it was pitch dark?...
... a man is standing with a shovel in one hand and a trowel in the other.
Creepy?
Scary?
Nope, I knew what he was up to.
Not burying bodies...
... prepping the trail so when it rains this weekend the ruts will fill in.
I stopped.
Introduced myself.
Thanked him profusely.
No need, I just moved here and can't believe how lucky we are to have these trails right here. Just wanna make 'em perfect for my kids and me to ride on.
To which I could only say...
... Bro, you gotta let me make you a custom RaceDay Bag.
Is there a better gift?
===
165.8 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I THINK I VOIDED THE WARRANTY
LIVING IN THE ACTION SPORTS MECCA of the world, I'm surrounded and influenced by all manner of creative, ingenious athletes. We all feed off each other. My friend Kody...
... started making super aero computer mounts.
3D printed gloriousness.
My new MTB was in need.
I reached out.
Got a mount for Roval bars?
Yes.
Cool, I'll get one.
We haven't tested for lights yet.
He thought I was asking for my road bike.
So yeah...
- the road mount is super aero
- looks freakin' awesome
- supports a light
... survived and thrived on first MTB ride.
Did my evil test void the warranty?
I dunno.
But, this is...
- come up product ideas
- make it
- test it
... what we do around here.
Here's a ink to his site: https://nanoworx.shop
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/85/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DO YOU KNOW YOUR GOLDILOCKS NUMBER?
WE ARE ALL SEARCHING for that magic number of hours to maximize our training. You know, the Goldilocks amount. Not too little. Not too much...
... the perfect amount of work.
I know where it is.
You do to.
Look back over the year.
Find the week that didn't wreck you, the...
- hours
- distance
- intensity
... I can do this every week.
Bonus/verification if you had any...
- Segments
- PWR
- HR
... PRs the following week(s)?
That's your Goldilocks number.
Mine's about...
- saddle time
- bit of strength work
- some sort of other fun
... 13 hours/week.
What's yours?
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU GET 1 WISH
2026 WILL BE HERE soon enough. Many of us are already planning work, vacations, family time...
... and, yes, races.
You get 1 wish.
Here it is...
- lay out your Giant RaceDay Calendar
- scour the interwebs for races
- pick one, and do it
... no limitations.
Imagine it...
- Anywhere on this giant blue marble.
- Any time of the year
- Dream equipment
- Fantastic lodging
- Clear schedule
... and ask yourself.
If not this year...
... when?
'Cause here's the deal, if we only did one race next year...
... we could probably make it happen.
It's just a mental game, play it out, and let me know...
... where, when and why.
Me personally, my top choices...
- Gravel Burn, South Africa
- Oregon Trail
- Rebecca's Private Idaho
... are gravel stage races.
Gravel Burn looks insane.
===
You do have a Giant RaceDay Calendar, right?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
===
164.4 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/91/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE REBEL ALLIANCE IS GROWING
EVERY NOW AND THEN a new format or race or course or piece of equipment comes along with promises to change everything. Except hardly anything changes...
... until something sparks.
How does that work?
Like this.
About 10 years ago, I purchased my first gravel bike.
My friends, like me, were roadies and mountain bikers.
A gravel bike seemed like the worst of both worlds.
I got it,
understood where they were coming from.
Except, I was having so dang much fun...
... I didn't care.
I just kept riding gravel,
inviting my friends,
enduring their
mockery.
It wasn't overnight,
more like overdecade.
The last two Saturdays, most telling.
Eight days ago, an absolute shredder on a mountain bike shows up on a spanking new gravel bike.
30 minutes in, he's grinning and shouting...
... This looks so wrong, but gadang it's fun!
Today, another pal shows up for his first group gravel ride.
He's gifted off road, we spent years riding motos in the desert...
... We're going 30+ miles an hour, I can't believe how much ground we can cover!
Does that mean you should be riding gravel, too?
Maybe.
But, really, it's just a lesson in how things that are worthwhile spread.
Then again...
... What did the gravel bike say to the road bike?
I am your father.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
90/105/-15 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FAMOUS COACHES ARE GETTING FIRED RIGHT AND LEFT
IN PRO SPORTS, or high level amateur, there is always a spot light on the coaches. At some point, blame or credit lands...
... squarely on their shoulders.
Should it?
I do love to follow college football...
- the emotional swings
- the athleticism
- the stadiums
... so much energy and unpredictablity.
Who would have thought so many megamilliondollar...
... coaches would be punted this year.
Mid-season.
The great Seth Godin wrote The Gap.
The idea behind the book is when we find ourselves unable to close the gap to our goal...
... the sooner we decide to quit and move on, the better.
It might be a pro gambling tactic as well...
... but, the only gambling I do is putting my heart, soul and cash into this business.
Anyway, would you have/have you had the guts...
... to change directions, and how quickly would you do it?
===
163.6 lbs/12.4%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CHOOSE WORTHY ADVERSARIES
WHAT IS IT ABOUT LOVING UNDERDOGS? It's so uniquely American. Is it our origin story, the DNA of our culture...
... to cheer for the fighter with no chance?
Honestly.
Who can't feel a bit of their own soul being crushed with every blow the awesome Apollo Creed delivers to a...
... bloodied, bruised, crushed Rocky Balboa?
We've all been in that arena.
Had the bell ring.
Still standing.
Somehow.
We humans thrive against overwhelming adversaries...
- inspiration
- desperation
- exasperation
... oozing with confidence and power.
When our all is required,
we discover who we really are.
As the great Kierkegaard said...
... What doesn't kill me makes me stronger.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/88/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MY TOP 5 SPEED HACKS
FOR MOST OF US, going faster, getting better, has less to do with a fancy new gizmo or the latest training fad. We know that...
... but, what are doing about it?
Like the Mastercard ad says...
... some things are priceless.
Here are five...
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Strength
- Maintenance
- Consistency
... anybody can do.
These are my hacks.
Sleep.
Figure out when we want to wake up. Get in bed 8 hours prior to that. Stay there until it's time. Eventually, our bodies get the hang of it, and boom... we're sleep doping.
Nutrition.
Eat clean. No packaged foods. If we can't identify the ingredients, we don't consume it.
Strength.
Do the basics, at home. We don't have time to drive to the gym. No need to do all the sets at once, break 'em up throughout the day. Hardly any equipment is needed: pull up bar, a few dumbbells (adjustables for the win).
Maintenance.
New equipment is so nice because it is all tight and precise. Flawless maintenance will keep that new equipment performance for years, and we'll always be race ready.
Consistency.
If we always train at the same time magic happens. Those around us learn and appreciate our commitment. We get it done. Always.
A final word.
I was never the best athlete. Not among my friends, and certainly not at school or among the general population.
I was never picked first, couldn't aim or hit anything regularity.
I wasn't the bravest or most daringist.
I did have one thing going for me...
... I freakin' loved being outside and being challenged by nature.
Today, I'm probably better than almost all my contemporaries.
That's not a flex, it's just happens.
They quit.
Which brings us to the top two hacks of all time...
... commitment and passion.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU'VE LOST THAT AWESOME FEELING... GET IT BACK!
THERE'S A CERTAIN SOMETHING we feel during the early days of picking up our passion. It's tangible. We can taste it. We love it...
... that's how we got here.
I'd lost it.
Over the last couple of years, drunk with stupid stats from Training Peaks and Starva...
- more time
- more miles
- more climbing
... I found myself wallowing in fatigue.
Don't get me wrong.
I'd line up, or roll out with the pals, and, though I might be quick to drift back...
... the ability to endure for hours was ridiculous.
Something snapped.
Or, lightning struck.
I dunno.
But, a few weeks ago, I woke up and said...
Screw it!
I'm cutting down the long slogs...
... and bringing back sprint days.
2-3 hours became 90 minutes.
With 10-15 VO2 max efforts,
lasting 10 seconds to 5 minutes.
I'm super fortunate to live close to trails with a lot of straight up and straight down...
... I let the terrain dictate how long the sprint lasts.
Then, focus on my DH skills...
... coasting, staying off the brakes, carving and carrying speed.
The upshot, after 90 minutes and 10+ solid efforts?
I feel amazing,
not pooped.
Sprinting engages all our muscles and focus...
... a total mind, body soul work out.
Soul?
Yeah, trust me.
Do 'em right, and you'll see stars and feel God's presence could be imminent.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU CAN'T GROW A BEARD OVERNIGHT
WE WANNA BE FASTER. Right now. Not this season, not this month, not this week, not today. Right now...
... 300 meters from the finish line.
Houston, we have a problem.
Go ahead.
We forgot to add fuel to the return booster.
Sucks to be you.
Yeah.
We can't grow a beard overnight.
A good one, for some of us...
... can take months.
If we wanna be fast in the final sprint,
if we wanna negative split the course...
... we gotta put in the work before we need the result.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CULTURE WARS
THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF TRAINING groups. Both extend invitations...
... the similarities stop there.
One culture assures...
- everyone is ready to start together
- there are plenty of stops
- nobody gets left behind
... fairness and concern.
The other demands...
- leaving on time
- no stopping
- no waiting
... rugged individuals.
The group we...
- join
- create
- help grow
... depends on the result we are looking for.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
180 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DIRT WORLD PROBLEMS
EVERY SURFACE HAS it's challenges. Add in the weather, how we approach things...
... changes quickly.
Super mist.
The normally grippy sidewalk we were slaying to meet the rest of the crew, was not only glazed with moisture...
... bright green moss screamed Slow down and do not lean over.
We ain't rookies,
not a problem.
It was so misty, the glasses were tucked away.
The late Fall moon dust covering most of our trails and roads...
- forks
- shins
- lenses
... quickly 3D prints on to everything.
Bombing the first downhill...
- nearly 40mph
- no brakes
- 1 minute
... the dust and pebbles flying up stinging our eyes.
Two choices:
Wear the glasses,
blurry, smudgy vision.
Wear no protection,
smoke your corneas or contacts.
When the sun finally burned through,
I grabbed my glasses from my jersey pocket...
... they were covered in sweat.
lol
Truly, dirt world challenges.
===
These Ugly Sweater jerseys woulda worked well today - which include matching gloves and socks
SPECIAL OFFER - 11.1-11.7 ONLY
When you Purchase an UGLY Pro Jersey, we'll include a gloves and socks. (we'll email you for your sock and glove size)
Order here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ugly-sweater-collection-2025
===
EXTRA SPECIAL CUSTOM UGLY SWEATER OFFER - 11.1-11.7 ONLY
Same offer as above, but custom ugly in your team colors and graphics
Go here to get started: https://bookdesign.pedalindustries.com/
===
164.4 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
90/99/-10 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
INTERMITTENT FASTING: MY LATEST TAKE
Aug 10, 2022
by TODD BROWN
EVERYBODY'S INTERMITTENT FASTING. Everybody's getting results. I was fasting, too. I wasn't getting the results I wanted...
... but, now I am.
Here's what's working for me, and I'd hardly call it fasting.
For me, because I burn a lot of calories, the eat in a 4 hour window or 6 hour window or 8 hour window didn't work. I felt feeble. Weak...
... my sweet spot is 12 hours.
That means I go about 12 hours from my last meal to the first meal the following day.
Here's what's happened.
First, I get up and just get cracking on work.
By 10 or 11 am, I've knocked a good chunk.
That's about 12 hours after my bedtime snack.
Second, I've dropped a few more pounds.
Third, I've realized there's no need for 3 formal, gut busting meals.
I got back into the intermittent thing this summer during the time I was living out of the van. It seemed more trouble than it was worth to make bacon and eggs or something of the sort. Plus, I wanted to knock out as much work as possible and get on the bike before the afternoon rains hit.
In summary,
- 12 hour window
- Dropped a few pounds
- More work done earlier in day
- Tummy's ability to absorb a giant meal has diminished
Overall energy seems as good as ever.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
Plus, a flatter stomach makes the new SuperTech T look sexier than ever.
I'll be adding more colors to the link below... I had to launch the PRs > KOMs first because...
... you know I'm all about PRs.
We've been getting rave reviews from the teams who have ordered for off the bike, on the podium.
Use promo code: OUTRAGEOUS to save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
---
159.2
9.5 hrs
Body Water 60.9
just pushups today
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
DO YOU USE AN ATHLETIC SUPPORTER WHEN RIDING?
Aug 09, 2022
by TODD BROWN
AT SOME POINT MY FRIENDS TALKED ME INTO FOOTBALL. We signed me up, got all this gear, and went to practice. All I can remember is how weak I was, unable to do the exercises...
... and wearing my first athletic supporter.
Ah, the jock strap days.
A hard shell to protect my special purpose.
We don't wear one riding, but the nice pads in the bibs kinda make it look like we do...
... and I reckon they provide some protection when needed.
But, we do still have athletic supporters...
... wives, husbands, lovers, partners, family, friends.
People that understand what pushes us, and are there to lend a word, hand a bottle...
... keep order when chaos ensues.
A virtual hard shell, around our special quest.
The first thing I learned about a jock strap, is it goes in the wash like everything else...
... so it's fresh and clean and wonderful.
That's why I've been taking Surfergirl to nice dinners, buying her little gifts, pampering her all I can this week...
... take care of your athletic supporters.
We all need some protection and support.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
What I would love to have had back then was our SuperTechT... made with the same imported Italian fabrics we use on our jerseys.
I'll be adding more colors to the link below... I had to launch the PRs > KOMs first because...
... you know I'm all about PRs.
We've been getting rave reviews from the teams who have ordered for off the bike, on the podium.
Use promo code: OUTRAGEOUS to save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
---
158.9
8ish
Body Water 60.9
just pushups today
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY DO I ALWAYS GET SICK BEFORE AN "A" RACE?
Aug 08, 2022
by TODD BROWN
FOR SOME REASON, I always get a little sick the week before an A race. The sniffles, scratchy throat. Call it race jitters, if you like. I call it...
... Damn, this is real and I'm scared and nervous.
I know it's just a bike race, but is it?
It's the same thing when I make a big marketing decision, like I did this month. I reallocated about 80% of my ad budget...
... it will be a huge win, or a huge loss.
You know what else happens during these times of proving myself? My right arm develops a rash. It's itchy. Annoying. Wakes me up.
We've all got a lot on our plates, big goals to chase, outrageous plans to hatch. The secret is not to get paralyzed when it's on the line...
... but to stay focused on the outcome we want.
The jitters, sniffles and rashes are just the bullshift our bodies throw at us...
... when are we about to open up the can of Whoopass.
Deal with it and move one.
For me, that's a round of Zicam/chicken soup/hot showers with a dab of Cortizone-10 cream.
Trust your training.
You're ready.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
And you've probably been smashing PRs all over the place.
This is my favorite SuperTech T.
I'll be adding more colors to the link below... I had to launch the PRs > KOMs first because...
... you know I'm all about PRs.
We've been getting rave reviews from the teams who have ordered for off the bike, on the podium.
Use promo code: OUTRAGEOUS to save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
---
158.8
7.5
Body Water 60.9
just pushups today
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
ARE YOU OUTRAGEOUS ENOUGH?
Aug 07, 2022
by TODD BROWN
TO BE OUTSTANDING, we have to be outrageous. Average, kinda good, somewhat committed, is not the way...
... champions think.
Outrageous always wins the day.
Innocent onlookers ask...
How far did you ride today?
About a hundred miles.
How fast can you go on your bike?
I've hit 63 mph.
Are you close to your early twenties weight?
Right on it.
Do you lift weights?
Every day.
For most people, any one of a dozen metrics that we consider normal...
... are completely outrageous.
I was reminded of that when my friend Nate texted the pic above. It's from 2001. His first Leadville, my third. He'll complete 20 this year...
... 20 in a row (no race in Covid), with belief shattering results.
That's outrageous.
My own 20 year goal of going under 9 hours at 60 has kept me in shape all these years. Only a handful have pulled it off...
... and I've made it completely outrageous this year by shooting for sub-8.
In the process of setting outrageous goals, we make all kinds of discoveries about ourselves and what we are capable of.
It's easy, so easy, to look back at the breakthroughs and wonder why I didn't try this before?
That's not the point.
The point is to be outrageous...
... as outrageous as possible, every day going forward.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
One of the outrageous things I wanted to do this year was create the most incredible tech t...
... after many iterations and alterations, using the same incredible Italian fabric we use on our jerseys...
... we've done it.
It's amazing.
I'll be adding more colors to the link below... I had to launch the PRs > KOMs first because...
... you know I'm all about PRs.
We've been getting rave reviews from the teams who have ordered for off the bike, on the podium.
Use promo code: OUTRAGEOUS to save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts
---
159.1
8
Body Water 61.2
just pushups today
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
STRATEGIES VS TACTICS. KNOW THE DIFFERENCE
Aug 06, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE STRATEGIES, AND THERE ARE TACTICS. Strategies are timeless, tactics are fleeting. I share the overall strategies I use with you because...
... I want you to win, at everything.
Here's an example of a strategy, Eat like an athlete.
The tactics will change with time via The Science and your own experience.
With the filter of eating like an Olympic champion, it's easy to decide what you'll be selecting when out with your friends. And, you don't have to say something lame like I'm on a diet.
In fact, when someone asks about my food choices, you know if I'm on a diet, I just say...
... No, I'm an athlete.
The silence is so sweet, and it has lead to many conversations regarding how to shed a few lbs.
Here's another, Sleep like a baby.
I was reminded of this visiting our kids and grandson. He sleeps about 14 hours a day. 9pm-9am, and a nap from 3-5.
Ever ask yourself where kids get all that energy?
Getting enough, and proper, sleep is strategy.
I failed on this one today, Always be prepared for every contingency.
First, I had an hour or so drive and I could have entered in the time I wanted to arrive and my smartypants phone would have alerted me to leave earlier because of an event taking place along the route.
Second, early on the ride I was late for, I ran over a large piece of glass and tore a hole too big for Dynaplugs to fix. I should have carried a tube, and a boot, for just such a situation.
Fortunately, the van was nearby and I threw on a new tire.
The bottom line is we all have to figure out the strategies that matter to us, and filter every decision through them. Saves time, makes things easy...
... keeps us on the path towards where we want to end up.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
If you're down to learn some of my strategies and see how well they work for you.
I have a 10-week challenge for you.
It's free.
And, it works.
Mat used it to qualify for Gran Fondo Worlds, Leif used it to drop 50 lbs...
... what are you waiting for?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
161
7 (nowhere near enough)
Body Water 61
just pushups today
30 minutes recovery
40 minutes reading + Journaling
THIS LOOKS LIKE A JOB FOR ME
Aug 05, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WE TESTED THE LEGS TODAY, raceish pace up one of the major climbs on next week's A race. This is always risky. No helmet is gonna protect the psyche if a slow time is posted...
... it can create all kinds of doubt.
Who needs that?
But, the opposite is just as true...
... nothing better than confirmation things are on track.
CH always hits climbs harder than me. Instantly I was suffering. But, determined to stay with him as we have a shared insane goal, to go sub-8. Which means...
... I better push.
He settled in after a bit and I recovered.
Not long after that, we weren't chatting any more. Things got quiet. Just chains and panting.
In the zone. The good one. Not hurting. Just pedaling.
The data says we are on track.
Phew!
As the great Slim Shady says, This looks like a job for me!.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
You know that else is good for the psyche...
... looking sharp.
Matting gloves and socks.
There are way more colors than this available...
... and it's Buy One Get One this month.
All you have to do is put 2 items in your cart, and we'll handle the discount at check out.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
160ish
6.5 hr (sleep's been hell this week)
Body Water 61ish
0 strength work
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
HE COME GROOVIN' UP SLOWLY
Aug 04, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WE'RE IN LEADVILLE, AGAIN. Not the 2 mile high city. Outside of town, five miles up a dirt road, in a 20 year old cabin, a 1000' higher. Staying with friends, and more friends...
... acclimating to thin air.
The first few days are always a little rough.
Can't breath.
Body is tired from adjusting to the altitude, the travel, the change in rhythm. And, the final huge training week...
... there is a vague sense of being hit in helmet.
A fog.
It all leaves you wondering...
... what the heck am I doing?
... what have I committed to?
... what was I thinking?
... do I have to do it?
If the journey is better than the inn, then can't I check the box complete and just relax and eat bon-bons?
But, that passes.
We settle in.
Recover.
Adjust.
While our body is rebuilding itself and repairing the damage from the high training load, our brains are starting to see all the pieces fall into place...
... and our souls are ready to soar.
That's where I am now.
Yesterday, at the midweek race, was the first glimpse of what I've been working for...
... it's coming together.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
This is part of the nutrition component that is coming together.
The code is SOHOTINHERE
And will save you an additional 10%
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
159
6 hr
Body Water 61%
1 strength work
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY I TRAIN IN THE HEAT
Aug 03, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A LOT OF GOOD REASONS TO TRAIN IN THE HEAT. One is that it creates more blood plasma, kind of like training at high elevation...
... but, that's not my favorite reason.
A lot of people avoid training in the heat...
... I have good news and bad news for them.
The bad news is, eventually you will be faced with a race that is hellahot.
The good new is that since most people avoid heat training, and we don't, they'll be suffering...
... while we are ripping.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
But, ya gotta stay hydrated and salted.
This bundle will save ya some $...
... and more if you use the promo code below.
The code is SOHOTINHERE
And will save you an additional 10%
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
160.4
7.5 hr
Body Water 61.5%
1 strength work
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
DISCIPLINE, WILL. NOT HELP YOU.
Aug 02, 2022
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
by 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
Invalid password
Enter