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Todd’s Journal
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Get RaceDay Ready
WHAT I KNOW ABOUT GOAL SETTING
WRAPPING UP THE YEAR, is a lot like wrapping up Christmas presents. We have these memories and milestones...
... to look back on later.
Gifts to ourselves.
What if we knew what gifts we'd be wrapping up for ourselves next year?
Would we plan our 2026 calendar differently?
Change up our goals...
... if their accomplishment was a given?
Now that you've done that little thought experiment, I'll share this with you.
The biggest accomplishments in my past were never concerned with...
- little details
- strategies
- tactics
... only What.
From there it was just a matter of making it real.
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
510 Anti-Oxidant Score
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
180 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/84/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
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...
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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
>
WELL, THAT BLEW
Jun 01, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOMETIMES YA JUST WANT A QUICKIE. Like today. Up early. Quick change. Out the door... riding into a beautiful rising sun.
But, sometimes ya oughtta take a moment to look over yer twowheeled pleasure craft.
Which I didn't.
Nor did I notice my tires were a bit splashy <- Jason Bourne quote there.
Not until I'd climbed rather high up above town on the rutted fire road... and I didn't even notice it on the climb. Traction was quite good, as you'd expect with low pressure.
No, it wasn't until I was downbound on a trail called Kamikaze... coming up just short on a bunny hop... that I realized I'd forgotten to air up.
Now I was air down... burped out about 20 pounds.
Unridable.
Texted Frank who lives nearby... nada.
Called my lovely, quarantined daughter, who quickly rescued me with a pump... but alas, it was more damaged than I could do roadside.
I never curse the gods upon the rare mishap... too many times I've come upon tragedy, thinking If this or that hadn't a happened, that coulda been me.
My loss is your gain...
Use promo code CONTIBOGO and when you buy 2 or more tires they're 50% off. You'll enter the promo code at check out.
(Yes, it works on all tires.)
---
166.2 lbs
Coach Loran killed me
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3547625925
ROUGH RIDING. WHAT I LEARNED FROM TEDDY R.
May 31, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I THINK WHEN IT COMES TO RACING, the more you can bring to the race the better. Could be better wrenching skills, could better on course support, could be a dedication to chess...
... could even be Teddy Roosevelt's autobiography, it's stuffed gritty teaching tales... from boxing with secret servicemen in the White House to frontier justice to liberating Cuba.
Teddy had an approach to apprehending armed criminals, who often possessed great fighting talent. He noticed they always had a moment of hesitation before pulling the trigger.
... I knew just what to do, and I did it first...
... and that my friends sums up most of my racing tactics.
It's not complicated.
Knowing what needs to be done.
Doing it first.
There are a ton of places to apply this principle in a race.
Know.
Do.
Here's something you oughta know... PEDALposse members save 25% on all purchases, custom or instock.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
165.4 lbs
Rest
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3543726943
ADFRIENDTURE
May 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WHAT ARE THE BEST BIKE RIDES? Adventures with friends. With all the warm feelings of finally being back together after months... something was bound to happen over the course of 45 miles with 7000' of vert in our local forest.
For examples...
One crank falling off
Two bleeding legs
One tumble in the moon dust
A fair amount of cramping
And, a complete detonation on the final climb.
But, the worst...
... the one that had howls of pain ricocheting across the canyon...
... I won't soon forget.
Our final decent was on The Luge. A trail with huge berms and jumps and nasty braking bumps... offering chances to fall off a cliff to one's death.
Which is exactly what those screams sounded like.
They were coming from a young lad of 12ish years on his own adfriendture with his big brother and another buddy. He was the last rider in their trio... all riding on crappy bikes and adrenalin.
He'd fallen 15' and landed in a cactus plant.
We formed a huMan chain and yanked him out.
Scared and shaken.
He'll be fine, and have a story he can tell the rest of his life... which no doubt will get better with time.
An adfriendture.
---
Apologies to today's tour guide, MG. I thought his prediction of 4 hours was nuts. He insisted we'd push each other.
Perhaps it was his pep talk... This is a drop ride, so keep up!
Some pavement to get to the dirt
Blackstar climb
Above the clouds
MG taking care of JM wounds
Easy E watching the kids take off
To the rescue... EasyE grabbed the kid... the man below started to slip and I grabbed him... much steeper than it looks.
Pink
Camo
Never pass up a Mexican coke and popsicle
But, you can't have an adfriendture unless you actually ride your bike.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
Use promo code: ADFRIENDTURE and have this tshirt delivered for under $18.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
---
165 lbs
Stretch
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3537861535
NO, TO THE PAIN!
May 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
TOMORROW SORTAKINDA MARKS THE FIRST DAY TOWARDS MY QUEST, the quest being MTB Marathon Nationals. I'll be meeting the fellas, and from what I've spied on Starva there will be pain.
Legs will be chopped off.
Arms turned to noodles.
Throats singed.
Lungs burned.
Eyes gouged.
Ears... will be filled with the shrieks of misery.
My fastest friends are meeting for an It'll take 'bout 4 hours ride. I looked at the estimates, and from what I can gather I'd have to PR every segment of the route to be able to do it under 4 1/2 hours.
There's nothing like a good thrashing to get the motivation going... motivation to train, eat, rest right proper.
So, I'll ride to the pain.
Raise your bottle if you're with me... and repeat it... To the pain!
Of course I won't feel all the pain because I'm gonna lather up with a heap of PR Lotion... as I'm sure all these cats will. Times like tomorrow I regret sharing all the secrets.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup/products/amp-pr-lotion
If you're gonna be riding To the pain! soon... click on this link and enjoy the extremely entertaining video.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup/products/amp-pr-lotion
Ships free in USA.
---
165.4 lbs
Coach Loran Live - tons of upper body
6.5 hours sleep - crazy dreams
https://www.strava.com/activities/3531092335
My inspiration for this post
WATTS UP GOLDILOCKS?
May 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M NOT SURE WHAT THE REST OF COUNTRY IS DOING, for that matter I'm not even sure what most of my friends are doing. But, I do know this... I have popped into the local group ride that is resurfacing and holyguacamole! some of these cats are in serious fighting shape.
I was quite shocked last week.
And stunned this week.
Serious speed from the getgo, and like an old diesel I've been, shallwesay, a touch slow in ramping it up.
I checked the soontobeexpensive Starva and according the Fitness/Freshness report my fitness is good and my form is bad.
This is the result of riding like Goldilocks - neither too easy nor too hard - just riding tempo all the time.
Not riding hard enough to need an easy spin, not spinning easy enough to pound a hard ride.
After being smacked by the Bigbadwolf a few times... I'm ready to search out some speed.
To inspire myself I printed up a new green - for sprint speed - tshirt.
It comes in a lot of colors... the imprint is our Stamp logo.
We use very special inks, and once you wash this shirt you'll never feel the ink.
If you use promo code WATTSUP at check you'll get this T deliverd for under $18... or under $15 if you're part of the PEDALposse.
---
164.2 lbs
Pullups, Pushups, Yoga
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3528552294
IF YOU'VE GOT THE MONEY, HONEY
May 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I REMEMBER CHRISTMAS 1990. Surfergirl presented me a Merlin Titanium Bikes catalog... with 10 crisp Benjamins inside. Twoooo Wuv.
I never got that bike... yes, I would have been part of the cool kids.
Instead, I plunked it down on a pure sprint machine. A cherry red aluminum Cannondale. Integrated shifting in the brake levers - imagine that, no more reaching for the downtube shifter midsprint!
Harsh ride.
Fast.
Raced that bike all up and down the coast the next 2 years. The pinnacle of my crit career.
I rode aluminum for a long time... then carbon... and I'm back on an aluminum sprinter at the moment.
Not as harsh.
Very aero.
Fast.
But, I'm starting to dream of Ti again.
The Moots YBB concept has always intrigued me. First, as a Leadville rig. It's very simple. No linkage. Limited travel, using Ti's properties with just a spring up at the seat tube.
They are now offering an even more limited travel version on their gravel bike and I'm giving it some serious thought.
For most graveling, suspension isn't really needed. But, we tend to go a little cray-cray around here... poaching a fair amount of single track and plenty of rough terrain. And, I'm thinking some suspension would be pretty slick.
The YBB frame with the Lauf fork could be just the ticket for my inner gravel goon.
It's only money?... nah, it's a helluvalotta fun!
Some wonder if the PEDALposse is worth the money...
... well, all I can tell you is riders keep joining... some for the savings, some for the training, some for the monthly surprise... check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
165 lbs
Yoga & Roll
6.5 hours sleep - kids up late
https://www.strava.com/activities/3523417093
PEDALposse Rules 11-15
May 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'VE NEVER BEEN ON A GROUP RIDE I DIDN'T LIKE, here are my rules when I'm the newguy
11. Speak when spoken to.
12. Pull my fair share
13. Be Steady Eddy, not Freddie Showoff
14. Stop if there's a mishap, be helpful.
15. Point shtuff out.
It ain't that hard to be a likable rider... or person... which you probably are if you're reading this...
... and if you're reading this, consider joining the PEDALposse.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
167.2 lbs (I keep telling myself it's time to get serious)
Coach Loran Live + Pullups
8 hours sleep
THE THINGS WE DO FOR KIN
May 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I WOULD NEVER DO THIS FOR A FRIEND: put him on my favorite race bike, give him a brand new kit, slightly used helmet, new gloves, new socks, and barely used glasses.
I'm just not that kind of friend, but I am that kind of dad...
... because if junior likes it, well hotdiggity - whatcouldbebetter?!
At the top of a twisty and tricky single track were three dads, and 3 little kids. Shane and I cleared the last pitch of rocky trail, huffing and puffing. It felt damn good, and everybody knew it.
This is the special stuff - spectacular view, prime weather, out in the wild for an adventure.
All the dads thinking... I hope he likes it.
Even me... thinking it for the 1000th time... and maybe this time it will stick.
Not only did I give him all that gear - not the bike - I introduced him to the goodness of Chamois Butt'r...
... but not the miracle that is PR Lotion, that is something I'll keep a secret... 'cause I'm gonna need every edge I can get if it sticks this time.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup
You my friend, if you have yet to try PR Lotion or the Butt'r, may use this promo code to save 50% on the second item: LUBEMEUP
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup
---
165.98 lbs
Pullups and Pushups
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2909778979
THERE ARE ONLY 3 KINDS OF BIKE RIDERS
May 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE RIDERS WHOSE LUNGS ARE SO HUGE AND LEGS SO POWERFUL that they achieve perfection on two wheels to which no ordinary rider will ever attain.
There are other riders who cannot ride with any skill or power at all.
In between come the mass of riders of ordinary ability, who if they choose can become solid riders... even accomplished racers... through dedication to regular training, proper diet, and focused recovery.
I belong to this third group, the workers and hustlers... the industrious.
PEDAL... Industries.
And... if you working hard on and off the bike you probably like saving big bucks whenever possible... like PEDALposse member MS in AZ
Have you been dreaming about a new helmet for the summer season? Got a few bones burning a hole in your jersey pocket?
Save 20% with promo code: KASK20
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
Today, May 25th 2020, is the last day of the KASK helmet sale.
PEDALposse, you save more with your special code.
---
165.8 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.75 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3506576127
IF IN HAD AN ENEMY (ENEMY)
May 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A LEGEND AROUND HERE ABOUT THE GREAT D.M... how great? Well, when John Tomac would come and visit DM would thrash him on the bike... really take him to the shed. Yeah, that great.
DM, the story goes, had demons... he was once so far off the front of a local MTB race, that he startled the course marshal high up on the mountain. The marshal didn't think racers would be there for at least another 15 minutes,.. but out in the middle of nowhere he hears a voice coming at him...
You think that hurts? That's nothing! Nothing, I tell ya... Quit whining you baby! That's ain't pain... you're not even trying...
Now that's an enemy, self-conjured or not, pushing DM... getting every ounce of energy out of him.
The great JO once explained how he goes all out from the start of an MTB race... he pictures in his mind that the competitors are trying to get his family and therefore he must crush them... and so he does.
I've been known to line up at the start and just pick someone to hate on... then tell myself some ridiculous story to get fired up!... and if they're not in the hunt, I have no problem training my lens on the next sonofagun.
So, yeah, love your enemies...
... especially the nice once that smile as they rip your legs off.
Which reminds me of Coach Loran, and how she laughs during the workouts she knows are killing us...
... looking for someone to hate because they make you feel weak? Look no further than Coach Loran... her workouts are part of the PEDALposse subscription.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
165.4 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.15 hours sleep
MAKE WATTS WHILE YOU SLEEP
May 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
OKAY... TBH, YOU CAN'T REALLY MAKE WATTS WHILE YOU SLEEP, but you sure the heck can lose them.
Check out what happens when we get less than 8 hours of sleep:
Time to physical exhaustion drops by 10-30%
Aerobic output is significantly reduced
Faster rates of lactic acid build up
Reductions in blood oxygen saturation
Impairment of the body to cool itself through sweating
Weight gain through loss of hunger control
and... wait for it... a whopping100% increase in risk of injury
... and that's just the athletic stuff, there's a whole bunch more... but, who cares about max performance on AND off the bike?
Well, I do.
So when my much smarter and much faster friend MG suggested Why We Sleep last year, I put it in the reading cue.
Result: I've upped my average night of sleep by about 30 minutes - as many have noted, the very act of reading the book will send you straight to LaLaLand.
What won't send you to LaLaLand are the many options of the Wild Child Kit.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
This is the Peace option, which I commissioned the great Joe Y to design for us... ya see I had a sneaky feeling we might need a bit more peace in our lives in 2020.
If you're wanting to spread peace use this code: PEACEOUT
The code works on everything in the store... but check out how snappy this kit looks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.2 lbs
Pull-ups
6.5 hours sleep - not my best night.
MIRROR MIRROR ON THE WALL...
May 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL... who's the fastest of them all?
Let me see here... let's see... well, according to the actual score board... why...hmmm... well, it ain't you.
Are you sure Mirror?
Yep, quite sure... looking at the podium picture here.... it's def not you.
Well, Mirror, what about that one KOM I got?
Checking... checking... checking... ah yes, found it... yes, you did have a KOM on that one forgotten loop that only one other person ever rode... but, looks like someone stumbled upon it and stole it... no email on that?
No Mirror, no email.
Are you sad?
Yes, kind of.
Don't be. You were never even in the running for fastest. But, you're still the fairest... and ain't that the best?
I'm not sure what inspired the above... maybe it's the awareness for ESPN's upcoming Lance Armstrong tell all?
But, I am sure this is a fairly awesome offer that is ending in 4 days...
... my favorite helmets, huge savings.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
KH ordered a Protone for himself... ''cause of course we always think of ourselves first... then sent this text
Now, you may not have an old helmet that fits like a giant, sad mushroom on top of your head like KH... but if you do... this is a helluva deal...
Save 20% with promo code: KASK20
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
Sale ends on 5/25.
PEDALposse, you save more with your special code.
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.2 lbs
Coach Loran Live + pull-ups
7 hours sleep
HAS STRAVA TOTALLY BLOWN IT?
May 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
KUDO TO YOU... there's a lot I like about Strava, so much so that I've paid for their service for years simply to support them... 'cause honestly, I couldn't make helmets or shifters outta their premium offer.
But, the thing I like most is it to take a few minutes from time to time and comment on a friend's outstanding ride. There's a lot of this going on on the Stravs and it's pretty darn cool... probably the best part, all that positivity.
I'm not sure if forcing people to pay for "their most popular feature" is the right way to go... but that's essentially what they've done by hiding all the segment times but your own and the top 10 should you not have the 5 bones a month they want from ya.
I think a choice ala Spotify to have paid/adfree or free with ads would be cool... even as a payer, I wouldn't mind seeing really relevant ads from time to time in my feed. For sure kids, the budget conscious, and others would opt for the free with ads version.
Without a quality free version, will Strava's domination of segment data be hollowed out?... leaving just richguy data? Will another platform come forth? Will people move to Garmin's app?
Time will tell...
... speaking of time, I'm really loving the longer days and the chance to ride long into the evening...
... and when I do, I roll out with 2 water bottles like this
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
Which you can have delivered to your door for a whopping... sit down before I tell you how much this is going to set you back... I mean, you know we haven't been able to make bottles for 10 weeks now right?...
Use promo code: KUDOS
Code expires after the next 10 sets of bottles have been ordered... except for the PEDALposse.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
165.4 lbs
Coach Loran Live
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3485751504
AFTER THE RACE...
May 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
A FULL 18 MONTHS INTO MY PROFESSIONAL RACING CAREER... start young enough and it's impossible not to have this dream, for every single ride is faster and further... I met what seemed to be an old crusty cat running a forgotten bike shop, he was probably mid-30s.
He sagely whispered, It takes 3 years to find out what kind of racer you'll be.
I thought, Whatever dude, I'm going to race that big thing in France.
Many times I've considered his statement. He meant I'd find out if I was a road racer or crit racer or circuit racer, for those were the choices at the time.
Surely I'd be a pro on the road... actually, I wound up a decent amateur on circuit courses.
But, maybe he'd meant something deeper?... for I'd learned a secret.
After the races, there are more races.
Each race presenting new challenges, requiring new skills. A chance to improve. To find harder races, against faster competition. To set larger goals that butt up to the impossible, and get after it.
Sure, wanting to win... but more importantly, knowing that each race leaves me a better version of myself...
... eagerly awaiting the next race.
The next chance to strap on my helmet and see who I've become.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
The first time, the very first time I placed the Protone - the blue one - atop my head I knew it was a winner. Perfect fit. Great airflow.
And right now we've got an incredible promotion... 20% savings... with promo code: MENSSANA. (expires 5/25)
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.4 lbs
Office Move Pt. 2
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3480225660
I CALLED HIM FAT
May 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I LOVE MY FRIEND Kevi. I was shocked to see him in December. Shocked, I tell ya. Here was a man who once weighed a scant 155... tbh, I didn't even recognize him when he rolled up to me... in fact, I cleared the area for fear he'd take me out like a lone bowling pin.
But this is what I love about him... he has more determination and will power than any person I've ever met.
He ordered a few kits... after squeezing into an XXL top and XL bottom, and I mean like hold your breath squeezing.
Then he started getting these dern emails from me.
Bought some PR Lotion.
Started riding hard again.
Noticed my weight... he knew I was 20 pounds heavier when he lived 'round here.
Got inspired.
Read about my passion for graveling.
Set a financial goal to merit a new bike.
Ordered Large kits a couple of weeks ago... down about 50 pounds.
Got the new gravel bike... giggled like a kid.
Shot me a message today... Can we change to Medium kits?
Did I feel bad pointing out his huge potential energy? Nope. I love him... want him to be around a long time. We've got a lot riding to do.
And now that he's joined the PEDALposse, I can't wait till he starts seeing the benefits of Coach Loran's workouts...
... just hope he doesn't giggle when he drops me next time he's in town.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
I'm not going to promise you the same results as Kevin... I don't know if you have that far to go, or if you have that kind of drive and determination... but, I will promise you a proper butt kickin' by Coach Loran... the kinda thing that will have you feeling S-T-R-O-N-G on and off the bike.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.4 lbs
Coach Loran Live
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3474731048
HONOR AND RECOGNITION IN THE EVENT OF SUCCESS
May 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MY FRIEND JEFF JUST LOADED UP HIS BIKE AND WENT FOR A LITTLE 322 MILE JAUNT... sleeping trailside from 11pm-5am along the way... and didn't even invite me, or anybody else.
Did it alone.
On forgotten gravel roads.
In bear country.
It's the kind of thing I only dream about or threaten to do.
Which reminds me of the most compelling advertisement I've ever read, placed by the great Ernest Shackleton... captain of the aptly named Endurance.
What calls men and women to engage in such quests is one thing.
Why aren't we all so engaged is another.
What are we waiting for?
Should I ever heed the call of the wild, what some may consider lose my mind you, bank on me going all in on style and efficiency from head to toe.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
The first time, the very first time I placed the Protone - the blue one - atop my head I knew it was a winner. Perfect fit. Great airflow.
And right now we've got an incredible promotion... 20% savings... with promo code: MENSSANA. (expires 5/25)
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.4 lbs
Office Move Pt. 2
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3463307446
SKID MARKS.
May 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
PAY ATTENTION AND YOU START TO NOTICE SKID MARKS ALL OVER THE PLACE. If you're the one laying down the rubber or carving up the dirt you're tapping into your rebellious side... and if your execution is flawless and graceful... well, that's a helluva feeing.
Carving up the local fire roads on my gravel bike today, I remembered one of the best bike lessons I ever got. And it was free, from my friend Brett.
Bret had race flat track motorcycles professionally... they're the original drifters... and he was the best skidder I've ever seen.
He kindly let me know I sucked... well into my 30's, 20+ years of skidding...
... and I'd been doing it all wrong.
Rather than share the many wrong ways... lemme just share the right way to skid through a turn.
The most important thing Brett taught me is to start your skid before you're turning, it's the only way to keep the back end from sliding away below you and leaving on your arse or worse.
Got that?
Start the skid while you're still going straight, then steer through the turn and the back end will come right around under control.
Why skid?
It's fun.
It can be a lot faster way to get through a tight turn off road.
It looks cool.
It kicks up a ton of dirt making it harder for trailing riders to see... I'd never do that.
If you're going to be working on your stylish skidding... wear a good, stylish helmet.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
The first time, the very first time I placed the Protone - the blue one - atop my head I knew it was a winner. Perfect fit. Great airflow.
And right now we've got an incredible promotion... 20% savings... with promo code: MENSSANA. (expires 5/31)
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.4 lbs
Office Move Pt. 2
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3463307446
WE WEREN'T BORN THIS WAY
May 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
NO ONE IS BORN A RACER. No one is born knowing how to ride a bike. Training is like spokes in a wheel. One spoke is useless. Many spokes, properly tensioned, make a strong wheel.
We train our legs.
We train our minds
We train our core.
We train our upper body.
We learn basic maintenance.
We study the greats.
We ride with faster and slower riders.
We practice handling skills.
We dial in nutrition on and off the bike.
We master rest and sleep.
Strong wheels roll over all obstacles... and so we attack the race with vigor and confidence that we are prepared...
... and that same preparation rolls into everything we do.
The wide road, the rockless trail... we learn nothing there.
We seek the fast turn, shoulder to shoulder... the steep, cliffside trail.
Mens sana in corpore sano - sound mind in strong body.
And we know it'd be a shame to not keep that mind protected and that body stylish so we don excellence atop it all.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
The first time, the very first time I placed the Protone - the blue one - atop my head I knew it was a winner. Perfect fit. Great airflow.
And right now we've got an incredible promotion... 20% savings... with promo code: MENSSANA. (expires 5/31)
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166 lbs
Office move
7.25 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2909778979
VISION QUEST
May 14, 2020
by Bold Commerce Collaborator
I FELL OVER HALFWAY THROUGH MY FIRST VISION QUEST. Landed on my side. Unable to move. I wasn't hurt, but I was being crushed by extreme heat and an ungodly amount of climbing. Falling over when I stood on the pedals because my legs cramped simultaneously wasn't part of the plan.
I lay there shocked, such was the speed by which I'd been cut down.
Just hours earlier I'd been full of confidence... thinking all was well, what could possibly derail a great day racing in the mountains with my pals?
It wouldn't be my only disastrous day on a bike.
But, it would define my response.
I would summon the will to finish...
... long after the winners and quitters had gone home...
... a victory of my own.
---
Shiz gonna hit our spokes for sure... and will continue to do so... and so we plan for that...
prepping better
adjusting expectations
persevering
loving what the trails and roads throw at us
turning inward for strength
accepting the shiz
and pedaling on
---
Speaking of pedaling on... if you're heading out for a big adventure be sure and lube up your body too
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup
Here's the dealio... buy any one of these products and the second product is 50% off when you use this code: LUBEMEUP
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup
—
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
—
166.6 lbs
Coach Live - ouch!
6 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3452950880
PEDALposse Rules 6-10
May 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
They say rules are made to be broken... break these at your own risk.
6. If you're going to lead, be the last one to lead - win the damn race!
7. Thy bike may be dirty, thy drivetrain must be pristine.
8. Always invite the ladies - they're nicer and don't smell - they may politely decline, keep inviting.
9. Group rides start on time - failure to heed leads to ride death.
10. Thou shalt not show thy butt crack via thread barren bibs - and if thou shalt be subjected to such offense thou shalt shame the offender without mercy.
Speaking of threads, I found a pile of these superlight socks while prepping for our upcoming move... and I'd sure like to find a home for them.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
This particular sock was only made in the size OFSM - one size fits most which is 9-12.
So, if you're that size... and you like gray... and have 8 shekels that need a home... that's all it takes to get these delivered to you.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3447809783
HANG LOOSE, HOLD TIGHT, LOOK FAR.
May 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
PERHAPS THE MOST OVERLOOKED SKILL IN BIKE HANDLING, and the cause of many an ohcrap moment, is the ol' hangloose, holdtight. I think it's overlooked, because it's rarely taught...
I was reminded of it yesterday when I received this message from PEDALposse member Michael F.
Just got a gravel bike, have had a few break in rides. I've quickly learned that it's not a simple as pedaling hard. There are obstacles, you can't just get into a zone (have to look and think ahead all the time). That said, it's fun (at times), and I know it will become a lot of fun after I develop a more "gravel" skill. Any tips for a pure road cyclist (no MTB background) looking to enjoy the trails around Santiago Canyon?
First tip is hangloose, holdtight, and it's applicable to all riding.
Your upper body should be loose, your arms especially. This will let the power of the terrain flow through you and be energizing vs jolting. Think of your arms as wet spaghetti noodles.
Your hands should have a firm grip on the bars, with noodle arms.
I learned it reading Zen And The Art Of Archery - it's short, and profound... about an American archer who travels to Japan and gets his schooled by little old men, and the secret he learned about recruiting just the right muscles.
Second tip is look as far ahead as you can.
Your body will remember what to do. Most people new to riding offroad look straight down. It's a bad habit that will have you focusing on the obstacles rather than the goals... never bueno.
I learned that from Moses - Where there is no vision, the people perish.
Another reason people perish is because their tires are in terrible shape... and guess what I don't want to move to the new location?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/continental-tires
Here's the dealio... the one promo code that is better than the PEDALposse code... the buy one get one free code: CONTIBOGO
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/continental-tires
---
Production is back up and running, most custom orders placed prior to 4/1 will ship week of 5/18, custom orders placed in April will ship towards the end of the month, custom orders placed now will ship in approximately 4 weeks from art approval.
---
166.6 lbs
Coach Loran #3 + pull-ups
7.25 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3442652996
STUPID ATTACK SNAGS PODIUM
May 11, 2020
by TODD BROWN
A LONG RANGE ATTACK USUALLY FAILS, it's often attempted by a racer who is feeling outnumbered or outclassed. And, usually ends up with the attacker being shot out the back. But, there is one kind of long range attack that if done correctly can reshuffle the deck in your favor.
Here's how I use it.
The last 5-10 miles of any road race are always heated.
The last 3-5, the adrenalin pump is a pumpin'.
Earlier this year, I pulled such an attack.
4 miles out.
I lead into a very fast 150 degree turn and sprinted hard out of it. There was a little gap, and I kept it at 9/10ths. As planned, I was caught about a 1/4 mile later. The charging train blew by me.
When rider X chided me with The race won't be won here, I knew it was mission accomplished.
I slotted in 10 guys back and kept an eye on all the players. It was a gradual 1-2% grade with a kicker at the finish.
That tactic can backfire.
They can leave you dangling off the front. So, go 9/10ths. If the gap keeps opening while you're getting closer to the finish, you can up it to all out... but it better be a helluva gap.
When that happens it's usually because they know you and think you don't have it and they let the gap get too big. Which is a really sweet move that I saw executed at LoToJa. I was keying of the regulars, and they figured Steinfelt didn't have it. Wrong. He won, we lost.
It works best when nobody knows you, like if you're in town just for the race. They'll think you're some kook making a bad move... you might be, so be careful. Usually, they'll chase you down, heckling you... leaving you in the catbird's position, latched on to the back of their lead out trains, forgotten.
While their egos are jousting, you are patiently resting and waiting to unleash your mighty fury...
... always be the last one to lead the race.
But, don't be the last one to check out our close outs... I added a couple of new things today. Found one of these sweet t's
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
Plus a few other things.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
---
167 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3437267779
HE'S GOING THE DISTANCE
May 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
A FEW YEARS AGO, I HAD THIS CRAZY DREAM to start a racing format called HUNKR. It stood for Hundred Kilometer Race. I learned the expensive way that race promotion is a tough way to make a buck. That was the bad part, but I also learned a ton of things along the way.
Yes, we had hundreds of people race...
Yes, the local speedsters - pros and national champs showed up...
Yes, the courses we spectacular.
Yes, an after party.
Yes... terday, I had a few hours midday and ripped around the county. Just over three hours later I came in super stoked. On a high.
3ish hours, stomping on the pedals is my sweet spot.
The route I'd put together as I went along, linking bike trails and little used roads, had only a couple of obeythelaw stops. Which left me in the zone the entire way. And, wound up to be exactly 100k.
The Old Clydesdale commented on my Strava post with one word: Hunkr.
Which reminded me of the point of HUNKR... to give people a way to race each other as well as chase their PRs. Runners do this all the time - sign up for mass start race, train together, then go race and reach for their PR.
The number one thing I learned is people really like the HUNKR format... we just don't have that in bike racing.
I wish we did.
Will I ever resurrect HUNKR?
Probably.
In a renegade, undertheradar, nopermits, inviteonly, braggingrightsonly, badass sorta format.
Until then, we are closing out the remaining jerseys... practically giving away the classiest event jersey I've ever seen or made... so we don't have to move them to our new, shiny location.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
No promo code - deals are too good, unless you're part of the PEDALposse and have your super code.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
---
166.6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3426929762
FAILURE FEEDBACK
May 09, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S NOTHING LIKE A SPECTACULAR FAIL FOR LEARNING. Whether or not Thursday was a true failure is questionable, the fact I fell off the athletewagon is undoubtable.
Exercise: lazy walk on beach
Diet: donuts for breakfast, a giant serving of PickUp Stix for lunch, Domino's for dinner, and multiple servings of Oreo ice cream pie while watching Revenge Of The Sith.
Why the fall: son Shane's bday + all kids in town for Mother's Day = party time.
The failure feedback: 2 lbs heavier than previous morning, and some karaze dreams
Without that feedback from the scale and dreams, nothing would be learned.
Racing, with a number or just amongst friends, has been a great source of feedback.
But, I think chasing PRs has been the best teacher because I experiment more.
Tinkering with tread patterns and tire pressure,
bike position,
nutrition,
pacing,
apparel,
time of day...
oh, it's an endless list... and chasing a PR is endlessly fascinating... figuring out what is holding me back - often it's the blubber, my homegrown ballast, that needs to be cast off.
Speaking of casting off, we're moving to a new location this month... so if you have a hankerin' for some deals, there are a number of things we are closing out
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
No promo code - deals are too good, unless you're part of the PEDALposse and have your super code... which you know you should be.
---
165.8 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.75 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3426929762
A COLD BLOODED KILLER PLANS FOR SUMMER RELEASE
May 08, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HAD THIS WHOLE POST ABOUT LEARNING FROM FAILURE READY TO GO, then I read this quote from Egan Bernal who learned from winning.
Bernal:
At the moment, it's a question of having cold blood, focusing on training, trying to do things as well as possible, get to the Tour and then things will fall into place.
That's his answer to the question of who will lead his team... himself, being the reigning champ, his teammate Geraint Thomas the previous winner, or Chris Froome who won before Thomas.
And, I freakin' love it... it's a question of cold blood... ie: getting your buns in gear, the world ain't waitin'.
We ain't waitin' over here either, in fact we're movin'... and rather than move it all, we're puttin' some of it on clearance... can ya help a brother out?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
No promo code - deals are too good, unless you're part of the PEDALposse and have your super code... which you know you should be.
---
166.6 lbs
Coach Loran Live Workout
7.75 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3421857164
CHEAP ENTERTAINMENT
May 07, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE IS SO MUCH CHEAP ENTERTAINMENT ON A BIKE. I love to admit it, some of the very best is when a friend flies off the trail and lands in the tree below... clipped in, upside down... with a sliced shin.
If you're a rider, and you're tough, and you signed up for said adventures... shiz like that be really funny. Whether it's you or your pal.
So, there we were laughing our helmets off only last night!
Poor unnamed rider X.
Don't tell my wife, I'll wear pants for a few days.
Copy that cowboy.
Just like that we rode on... bleeding, smashed shifter dangling... doing our thang.
I was reminded of that story this morning when I got an email from my Aussie mate Tony.
Hi Todd,
Every ride where I use your XL RaceDay bag I am reminded of you. ( I always laugh when someone say SH@T I left my gloves at home and point to my bag).
Yep... that's super funny, and happens all the time.
Reminds me of the time I forgot my kit and raced a crit in surf trunks and a tank top. Really wanted to win that won after all the shaming. No luck.
I've laughed a million times thinking about that race.
Even funnier was when my friend got kicked out of a race for doing a towel change in the pits... by the Sheriff!
Too bad she didn't have a changing poncho... hahahaha!
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
You know what they say... Modest is hottest!
Use promo code: CHEAPENTERTAINMENT
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
Pedalposse... use your super code.
---
165.6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3414501436
TO RUST OR NOT TO RUST, THAT IS THE QUESTION
May 06, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WE HAVE THIS OLD IBIS TANDEM COUSIN IT. The attention to detail is awesome. From the matching Silca pump to the little forged hand that holds the brake cable. After 25ish years, it's in good shape... not worn, not rusted.... because we haven't ridden it for the last 10+ years.
Which reminds me of this quote:
We must all either wear out or rust out, every one of us.
My choice is to wear out.
-Theodore Roosevelt
While our contemporaries slowly rust out, we are in the big gears. Charging ahead. Setting karazy goals.
Which reminds me of this qoute from my distant cousin:
I don't know karate,
but I do know karazy.
- James Brown
Whatever your karaze biking goal is, if you have some base bikefitness you can be karaze ready in 10 weeks.
Right now, I'm working on a new book...10 Weeks To Speed... the premise is you don't need a full-time coach, you just need 10 focused weeks.
Get out your calendar and sip on that.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
Less than 20 smackers, delivered to your door... yes, both bottles.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
PEDALposse, remember to use your special code.
---
165.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3411138895
OUTRAGEOUSNESS IS THE ONLY STRATEGY
May 05, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SPARE ME THE SHOOT FOR THE STARS HIT THE MOON PLATITUDES. I want something outrageous, clear and concrete.
Like PRing Leadville last summer, 20 years after my previous PR.
It's the only way to wring out the best.
This year's outrageous goal... sheesh, my palms just started sweating... but, I gotta do it... gotta commit to something ridonkulous.
Here it is Marathon Nationals... for the win.
November 14th.
Texas.
There. Said it.
Six months to get in tiptopshape. Be one with my MTB.
That wasn't so hard. There's almost a relief, finally putting it out there. Writing it down. The trepidation turns to fascination... how to get it done?
One thing I'll be doing for sure is getting my buns kicked regularly by Coach Loran. Body strength, coordination, balance will be key for a successful day.
If you haven't trained with Coach Loran yet... well, you're probably not in the PEDALposse where her training is included.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
I know what you're thinking... she looks so nice and inviting, how could she possible motivate me?
Well... start with the fact she's probably a better bike handler than 99% of riders then add in she's be training people for 15 years.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
166.2 lbs
Coach Loran killed me
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3405159184
SO YOU'RE SAYING I'VE GOT A CHANCE?
May 04, 2020
by TODD BROWN
PERHAPS THE GREATEST LESSON OF AN EPIC EVENT IS TO TAKE IT MILE BY MILE. Shtuff happens. Whether it happens at mile 2 or mile 92 matters not. Our response is all that matters.
At the original 12 Hours of Big Bear, I started catching up to the leaders on the long downhill.
It was the first lap.
We were all fresh.
I'd been dropped, but I was back.
Hellyeah boys, I'm here... was all I was thinking.
Poof! tsss... tsss... tsss... tsss... a dawgawn flat tire, and now all I was thinking was...
Hell!
I noted the time. Fixed the flat in 2 minutes, flat.
We still had 11 hours and 35 minutes of racing. I stuck to my pace, about 50 minutes per lap.
By the 11th hour, first place Matt Oran had lapped me and figured no one could match his 12 laps. He pulled out and watched.
Second place, also pulled over having completed 11 laps. Like Matt, he figured no one could catch.
At 11 hours 5 minutes, I pitted. 11 laps done. Surfergirl told me the situation. Poured to packs of table salt into my mouth and sent me off.
We'd started at 7am. Most of the mountain was now dark, the sunsetting on the other side. Nobody else as on the course because they'd done the calculation and figured they couldn't get back by 7pm.
Could I make it back by 7pm and complete 12 laps, securing 2nd place? Everything hurt. Cramps came and went.
It was just me and DuranDuran, Hungry Like A Wolf... strangely serene.
---
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change
The courage to change the things I can
And the wisdom to know the difference
---
Riding that fateful downhill for the 12th time, doing all the mental math, knowing it was going to be very, very close... I knew something else,
if I'd hesitated when it all went sideways, or given up hope, I never would have made it to this moment... in a beautiful forest,
this beautiful, quiet moment, completely satisfied I'd done all I could do.
---
I crossed the line at 6:58PM, and collapsed. Numero dos.
---
A lot of folks have been buying this lately. We got lucky and stocked up before production was halted.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
Less than 20 smackers, delivered to your door... yes, both bottles.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
---
166 lbs
Core day with Coach Loran
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3399691968
BEAST OF HURTIN'
May 03, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOMEDAYS ON SUNDAYS MY LEGS ARE HURTIN'. After yesterday's peppy jaunt around the county, today is one of them. Didn't really notice it until a late afternoon walk up a coupla a sets of stairs.
Which reminds me of a question my pal Talley asked.
Do you ride to "get it over with” so you can reward yourself OR is your ride the reward?
My reply...
I think it's some of both... though, lately I've been riding end of day a lot more... it's nice to look forward to and it forces me to compress the work day, not let it leak into dinner and the evening.
A few years ago I read The 5 Hour Workday, and we committed to it pretty hard. But, somehow we lost our discipline and drifted back into the 8 to 10 hour workday.
Perhaps this is the right time to recommit? I'm gonna dig that book back up.
... and run this another day.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/drypowder
You provide the ziploc bags, I'll provide the promo code: POWDERDRY
... unless you're in the PEDALposse and have the more better code.
---
166 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3394583609
KEEP YOUR POWDER DRY
May 02, 2020
by TODD BROWN
TRUST IN GOD AND KEEP YOUR POWDER DRY... advice for the ages. Fighting advice. And it works for long, vicious and terrible rides... because it means to be prepared to take action yourself... here's how not to do it.
Yes, Zach, this post is for you!
Setting the stage...
The bright sun was balanced with a lingering hint of winter in the early air. An intoxicating mixture that had Justin returning home about 3 hours later than promised to wifey... and had coaxed Zach out for his first ride in months.
We'd planned to circumnavigate most of the county at a brisk pace.
First stop 60 miles in, then another 40 to get home.
Being the wise old diesel that I am, I had a big drink before I left. And loaded my pockets with Honey Stinger waffles and a ziploc bag full of 4 scoops of GQ6 powder.. powder which would stay dry in said bag and mix up to power me home.
We warmed up nice enough, but the further we went the harder we ground. Soon pulls were being skipped. It was on.
The Anaheim train station is on the route and a wonderful stop, with a cafe and water and bathrooms. It's beautiful inside.
I busted out my bottles. Poured dry powder into bottle one, began pouring bottle two.
Zach looked so sad.
The cafe was closed.
The only working vending machine was stocked with novels of the 50 Shades of Gray ilk.
I gave him a good portion of my dry powder. Mike gave him a bar.
At which point Justin asked if I had my supply of Salt Sticks...
We clipped in and Zach mentioned to Justin...
I feel like all the posts are about me.
Me, too.
Which warmed my heart.
Bring your powder, and keep it dry.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/drypowder
You provide the ziploc bags, I'll provide the promo code: POWDERDRY
... unless you're in the PEDALposse and have the more better code.
---
165 lbs
Stretch
6.5 hours sleep - too excited to sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3387267351
I KNEW A GREAT MECHANIC, AND YOU'RE NO GREAT MECHANIC
May 01, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE PROBLEM WITH TODAY'S BIKES is they are too dawgawn good. Rare is the breakdown, part failure... shoot, we hardly get flats anymore let alone a busted spoke.
I don't know about you, but my wrenching skills kinda stink... and my wrench collection?... a flippin' mess.
Fearless as ever, I approached swapping out my very worn rear tire on my gravel bike.
No quick release, need a wrench to remove the wheel.
Easy enough, then I removed the tire.
Inside there was plenty of Stan's milk sloshing.
I carefully disposed of the old stuff.
Popped on the new tire.
Poured in a bunch of Stan's.
Mounted the rest of the tire.
Aired it up.
Jiggled, wiggled, bounced... all manner of movements to get that inside coated with the magic white stuff <- the kind of thing that magically does away with flats and tire changing skills at the same time... here's what I mean...
It was a little tricky getting the wheel situated inside the frame and a dinged the brake calipers somehow.
No amount of fiddling would get it to stop rubbing.
Did I mention I'm a fearless mechanic?... yeah, well, this is the point I should have set it aside and approached fresh in the morning. But I din't.
Instead, I proceed to... well, I'll cut to the chase... my brake still rubs and the bolts mounting it to the frame are now nearly stripped out.
Ugh...
(Diminished skills + crummy tools) X lack of practice = Bike Down!
Such a drag... I was mounting that tire up to have good romp in the dirt.
But, there's good news.
PEDALposse member Chris M just moved to town. And guess what he is?... a pro-fesh-nul mechanic. And, he's got some time. And, he's already extracted the stripped bolt... and now we're just waitin' on parts.
Maybe we need PEDALpossePlus... and include service?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
165.4 lbs
Live session with Coach Loran - she killed me.
7.5 hours sleep
Got an hour in, but the Wahoo is acting wacko.
PEDALposse RULES TO RIDE BY
Apr 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
HERE ARE 5 RULES TO ABIDE BY:
- Train at the front of the group. If you're on a group ride, get your buns to the front... where it's hard, you'll be a lot harder to drop come race time.
- Always be prepared. We're hardly Boy Scouts. But, the Scouts are right. Be prepared in body, mind, spirit and saddle bag. The posse doesn't spect anyone to carry parts for them.
- Thou shalt bend thy elbows. While riding with the elbows locked my feel good, might even look good in your mind, it's a great way to find yourself splattered on the asphalt.
- Name thy bike. Your bike is an extensive of you... give it a name to be known on the records of Starva.
- Never bonk. Bonking, running out of food, is the true rookie move... and if done righteously can leave you depleted an in a hole for weeks.
More to come... until then, consider this... the lightest, quietest saddle bag ever.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag
The mini RaceDay bag is super lightweight and durable bag that holds a tube, air cartridge and nozzle, and levers perfectly.
Everything is snug, sucked up under your saddle, and never rattles around. Plus, there's room for a couple of bucks and a patch kit if ya like.
Made from durable 29" mountain bike tube.
Use promo code: RULES1-5 to save, or your PEDALposse code to save twice as much.
---
166.2 lbs
Coach Loran #2
7 hours sleep
ride didn't record
IT'S SHOCKING
Apr 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M ALWAYS AMAZED AT HOW WONDROUS PEOPLE ARE AT NATURE. Half of me is in disbelief that anybody could make such a big deal about seeing a deer or bobcat, etc... and the other half is smug thinking I see that all the time.
But, such is the world we live in. People sucked so far into their cocoons they freak out at seeing nature. They've lost their nature.
We on the other hand, are much closer to our wild side.
We are wild.
Wolves.
Eagles.
The thing about animals is they only attack in two instances: when threatened, and when the kill is certain. They can't afford the luxury of taking physical risks. In the wild, there's no back up.
Which just might be good racing advice. Attack when threatened, or when the kill is certain.
Speaking good advice, now would be a good time to check out the PEDALposse... here's why: it's been purposely mysterious because we didn't want to many people to join before we had it figured out.
We've got a little more clarity on this wild offer.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
166.6 lbs
Coach Loran #3 + pull-ups
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3373573030
SAME AS IT EVER WAS
Apr 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THOUGHT EXPERIMENT: What if we changed the order of things?
For years, the Tour De France started with a prologue, and over the course of 3 weeks got into harder and harder climbs, ending with a bunch of laps and a sprint in Paris.
What if they raced it in reverse?
If the start was a bunch of laps round the Champs -Élysées with a giant crowd cheering the racers for an hour or so before they head out to discover who is the best.
Then we'd see fresh climbers slug it out on the first 10 days of massive mountains.
Follow by another 10 days of rolling terrain and sprints.
Ending with short prologue of 8ish minutes where racers are basically riding more than racing and basking in the glory of 3 weeks well done... and finishing fresh ready for a big party.
Would it matter?
Probably more than it mattered that I had the pricing and code wrong for this promo yesterday:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic/products/patriotic-superlight-full-finger-gloves
The factory is taking this 2D rendering and turning it into a super sweet pair of gloves... and they'll be available in about 3 weeks.
Let me just interject a phenomenon I've noticed over the years, when we are under attack as a nation we get very patriotic. There's been a marked uptick in our Patriotic collection the last 3 weeks. I think these gloves will be a hit, and probably sell out.
So, if you want an early crack at them here you go:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic/products/patriotic-superlight-full-finger-gloves
Use promo code: BESTTRICK ... if you're part of the PEDALposse, you can use your mo' betta' personal code.
---
167.2 lbs
Coach Loran #5
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3368841663
THE OLDEST TRICK IN THE BOOK
Apr 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ALL I KNOW IS I WAS ENJOYING A COOL EVENING, COASTING HOME WITH MY HANDS AT MY SIDES AND MY SMILE REAL WIDE... thinking I'm gonna call tonight's post The oldest trick in the book.
Because is there an older, cooler trick than that first time you let go with boh hands... not the first time for onetenthofasecond... the first time you were relaxed, cool as a cucumber?
Well, come to think of it there are cooler times...
... like riding the Stingray off the curb, no hands...
... like casually pulling off your jacket or vest or warmers and patiently folding to properly fit in your jersey pocket all while rolling along in the bunch, no hands...
... like beating your friends across the city limits sign and celebrating, no hands...
... like ending a long day at the yob with a little spin, cleansing your mind, no hands..
... and the oldest trick, becomes the best trick.
You wanna no another cool trick?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic/products/patriotic-superlight-full-finger-gloves
The factory is taking this 2D rendering and turning it into a super sweet pair of gloves... and they'll be available in about 3 weeks.
Let me just interject a phenomenon I've noticed over the years, when we are under attack as a nation we get very patriotic. There's been a marked uptick in our Patriotic collection the last 3 weeks. I think these gloves will be a hit, and probably sell out.
So, if you want an early crack at them here you go:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic/products/patriotic-superlight-full-finger-gloves
Use promo code: BESTTRICK ... if you're part of the PEDALposse, you can use your mo' betta' personal code.
---
168.6 lbs
Coach Loran #4 + 40 pull-ups
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3364198985
IT'S NOT RACING IF IT'S NOT DANGEROUS
Apr 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
GRAVEL RIDING IS REALLY FUN, brings a ton of adventure and all kinds of freedom on where yer gonna ride that day. Any turn is a good turn. Every path brings unknown potential. But, let's be fair... it's not really racing if it's not dangerous.
Nobody goes crit riding.
Road racing, means eventually there's gonna be massive risk taking.
CX you might stub your toe or skin your shin.
Mountain bike racing is synonymous with destruction of bikes and bones.
Which brings me to the first gravel racer, the original drop bar ripper, the King of Kamikaze... if you don't know his name, that's a true shame.
Because at the height of mountain biking, with the advent of DownHill this cat was running a disc wheel, an aero helmet, a skin suit, and looking smooth and planted while drifting turns at 50+ mpg.
That my lads and ladettes, my fellow parishioners of the church of the crank, is real gravel racing...
.. the rest of it is gravel riding, and it's super fun...
... but I can't stop thinking about the racing, the gravel type.
I reckon that's why I prefer my speedy KASK road helmet.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/kask-protone
This is by far, the most comfortable helmet I've ever worn. And, I use it for everything road, XC, and of course gravel...
... and you know I'll be wearing when I go gravel racing!
You can pick it up here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/kask-protone
And you can save if you're part of the PEDALposse.
---
166lbs
stretch and roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3359288764
TEMPERING THE GRAVEL GOON
Apr 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
FOR THE LAST FOUR WEEKS I'VE BEEN TRYING TO CONNECT A 100K GRAVEL COURSE AROUND DEEZ PARTS. Finally got 'er done today... and it was a roughie.
I started too late, getting scorched by the midday heat... but, the course is so rad it didn't discourage me.
Here's why:
Starting from the sandy shores of the Pacific, I rode the 62ish miles and all but 5 or so were either on paved bike trail, gravel road or sweet single track.
The route includes water crossings, beautiful old oak trees, tall grass and wild flowers... plus a large bobcat, a gazillion rabbits, and 2 red tail hawks.
There's 5000' of vertical gained, and it's mostly packed in the middle 30 miles. These are not gentle climbs, these are make you want to walk climbs.
Why have I been on this quest?
Did you read that part above? JK... I dunno, it's just in my nature to figure out fun courses. Plus, Jeff is coming to visit and he's been bugging me to ride gravel for 10 years... gotta show off our stuff.
I learned a few more things along the way.
- Carry lube. On these long gravel rides if there's water crossings, it's a good idea to carry a small tube of lube.
- Low pressure, mo' betta. I rode 35lbs in the rear and 32lbs up front.
- One of those dorky boxes on the top tube would be handy for carrying extra food... I had 7 waffles jammed in my left pocket.
Questions you may have, should you choose to join us on an official Gravel Goon:
Do I need a gravel bike? No, an MTB would be great.
Can I ride a road bike? Doable with exceptional bike skills and a bombproof back.
Will you wait for me? Probably not.
Will you have aid stations? When it's official, fo' sho'.
What should you eat?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
Delicious Honey Stinger waffles... I like to break off half, the package is perfect for storing the second half and eating 30 minutes later.
Tasty GQ6... I like 2 scoops in my big bottle.
Salt Stick chews... I keep them in a TicTac box. The roll out one at a time and into my mouth to suck on while I ride.
Buy two of those, get the third free with promo code: GETBACK.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
---
The other thing I learned/practiced was how to use a GoPro. For my bday I got myself one... inspired by my friend Jose who takes such amazing pictures. I asked what he used and he clued me in.
I ran into 4 friends on the ride - Justin, Robot, Mark and Chris (pictured)... it's not as good as riding together, but it's darn nice to see the fellas.
---
165.8 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3353469209
THE LEADVILLE LETTERS
Apr 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
A FEW MONTHS AGO A FRIEND ASKED IF I'D COACH HIM TO RACE THE LEADVILLE 100. So, I fired off an email every day... with homework.
Some of the information is tactical for Leadville.
But, more importantly, the letters reveal nuggets which may be applied to any ride or race likely to leave nothing but the residue of who you are when it's over.
If you're planning to get your head handed to you at Dirty Kanza or BWR... or, just want to do an epic attack on your local mountains, you need the Leadville Letters.
For example...
Every Friday and Saturday you need to experiment with your food to find out what works for you. Do not leave this up to the last couple of weeks before the race, or worse, the week of. Figure it out early, then tinker with it.
Be the person people ask, not the one who’s unsure and ready to try something new on race day.
Okay, here is exactly what I eat and drink...
... revealed in the Leadville Letters are 20 years of mining racing some of the hardest more ridiculous courses in the western US, pure gold.
These letters will be shipping in June, and can be ordered here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-leadville-letters
However, if you're part of the PEDALposse no need to order as they're included with your subscription.
Not a member of the PEDALposse yet?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
166.2 lbs
Coach Loran #2 + pull-ups
7.5 hours sleep
No ride.
USELESS INFORMATION YOUR BUTT CAN USE
Apr 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MICKEY'S MESSAGE:
I learned my core is useless. Video #3 kicked my butt but will be back for more.
Jake's take:
Loran kicked my butt (again) this morning btw :) never used the rubberband before but wow that hurt so good :)
Chris' crushing:
Week one was with the "I've got this I'm a strong competitive cyclist" attitude. After the 3rd day I could hardly walk. Quads, abs, sides were so wrecked I had a hard time getting in and out of the car, walking up stairs, and getting up off the couch.
Week two was with the "okay I better take it a little easier" attitude. I wasn't nearly as sore but I felt pathetically weak. I had a hard time completing the intervals and had to do the shameful drop to my knees on some of the moves. Nonetheless I powered through.
Week three (this week, two sessions in) I am feeling like I'm stronger. I'm not expereincing significant soreness. I'm, so far, able to complete the intervals (mostly off my knees). And, I can tell my form is better.
Yes, dear PEDALposse... that's totally useless information unless you have a sneaking suspicion...
an honest inkling...
a flunking feeling you too might be a two-wheeled weakling...
an honest inkling...
a flunking feeling you too might be a two-wheeled weakling...
... well do ya?
... are ya tired of looking like T-rex?
... in need of some motivation?
... unafraid of getting beat up by a girl?
As I wrapped up my ridonkulous week of 31,824' of climbing in 7 days I realized my lower back didn't hurt once. I climbed for hours seated and outta the saddle. My core is strong damn.
Sooooo... if you've ever wondering what could possible be so great about joining the PEDALposse... here's one heck of a reason:
Coach Loran's workout videos alone are worth the price of entry. Trust her, she's a badass on a bike.
JUST A LITTLE GOAL: 7 DAYS - 30K
Apr 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT STARTED OF AS A CHALLENGE TO "EVEREST" IN A WEEK - climb 29,029 feet. But, doesn't 30k sound a lot better? It did to me, when I started. Then it didn't sound so good 3 days ago when there was still 12k to go. And it sounded worse last night as the sun was setting. And, even more worser this afternoon when I still needed over 4,000 feet.
But, you know... get done with work early, lube up with PR Lotion, 70 degrees, sunny...
... 3 hours later, and I'm at 5k for the day...
... and 31,834' of vertical in a 7 day period.
Yes, I know the cool kids all do that Everesting in 1 day. On the same climb. And I applaud them loudly.
I just wanted to do my own challenge. And, 30k in 7 days sounded plenty epic.
The first day was on the road. The second, fifth and sixth on the MTB. The third and seventh gravel bike. The fourth day I rested.
I learned a ton... which I shall share more of tomorrow.
For now, I'm stoked to have accomplished a new PR. I've never climbed that much in a week. And, I know my food strategy was spot on.
Which reminds me how poopular this special has been... and maybe you're on the fence about it and you know we are shipping immediately...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
Delicious Honey Stinger waffles... I like to break off half, the package is perfect for storing the second half and eating 30 minutes later.
Tasty GQ6... I like 2 scoops in my big bottle.
Salt Stick chews... I keep them in a TicTac box. The roll out one at a time and into my mouth to suck on while I ride.
Buy two of those, get the third free with promo code: GETBACK.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
---
165.6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3338986707
WHAT ARE YOU WEIGHTING FOR?
Apr 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
HAD A CAT NOTICE MY WEIGHT'S BEEN GOING UP. TBH, it kinda freaked me out that people actually look at that. Made me think I should stop posting. Made me wonder why folks actually believe I'm posting real stats. Then... I hearkened back to the day I first posted my weight.
It was in high 170's.
Now, It's in the mid 160's.
And that's f'real weight... when I first wake up.
And it's every day.
Because the only way to tell how what I'm eatin' is affectin' what I'm weighin' is by weighin' every day'n.
How'd I do it?
- Weigh same time, every day.
- Record it on an app.
- Tell a friend, or 1000s like I do.
If you're serious:
- No bread or baked goods
- No packaged foods
- Lots of fruits and vegetables and nuts
Keep it real...
- Cheat once a week - I cheat on Sunday
- If anybody asks if you're on a diet... No, I'm an athlete.
- Have fun with it.
And to that cat who commented... yeah, I typically gain a few pounds after a big day like Saturday - 7 1/2 hours, 80 miles, 10,280' of vert. And I cheated a lot on Sunday. It'll be gone soon... and thanks for calling me out, that's why I post it.
Speaking of food, I'm gonna roll this promo one more day because it's been very poopular... and maybe you're on the fence about it and you know we are shipping immediately...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
Delicious Honey Stinger waffles... I like to break off half, the package is perfect for storing the second half and eating 30 minutes later.
Tasty GQ6... I like 2 scoops in my big bottle.
Salt Stick chews... I keep them in a TicTac box. The roll out one at a time and into my mouth to suck on while I ride.
Buy two of those, get the third free with promo code: GETBACK.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
---
166.6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3334068092
ARE YOU USING YOUR ANGRINALIN TO DOMINATE?
Apr 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IN 2005, I WAS 75% THROUGH MY CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING SUPER-D. Totally in the zone. I'd just block passed a dude that just wouldn't get outta my way, and wanted to put as much distance as possible between the two of us. Carving through the trees, I came to a very steep drop with a ladder to help with traction. I was going too fast.
At the bottom of the ladder, my suspension compressed completely.
My body kept moving.
Head first into the dirt.
I was stunned.
Covered in moon dust.
Nothing was broken - bones or bike.
I grabbed my bike, left my Oakleys in the dirt, and proceeded to shred the rest of the race course.
I won a 25 minute long race... by 7 seconds.
Forget the glorious ending... racing or not, if I'd laid there and slowly dusted myself off, found and cleaned my Oakleys, taken a "deep breath"... I eventually would have gotten back up to speed.
Instead, I harnessed my Angrinalin. Anger +Adrenalin.
Any hesitation and overwhelming power would have been lost.
May the Angrinalin be with you.
... and my you get back with great stories to tell.
I'm still rolling with this promo because, well... seems like people are digging it, and maybe you're on the fence about it but now that you know it's been working pretty good and we are shipping immediately you'll go for it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
Delicious Honey Stinger waffles... I like to break off half, the package is perfect for storing the second half and eating 30 minutes later.
Tasty GQ6... I like 2 scoops in my big bottle.
Salt Stick chews... I keep them in a TicTac box. The roll out one at a time and into my mouth to suck on while I ride.
Buy two of those, get the third free with promo code: GETBACK.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
167.6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3329019229
MY LEGS HURT
Apr 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THREE DAYS INTO MY 7 DAY QUEST TO CLIMB EVEREST, and my legs a pretty sore. 5000' Thursday, 3000' Friday, 10,000' Saturday. Took today off, per my plan... well, kinda took it off... did a 4 mile hike with the family, totally worth it. That leaves 11,000' more, Monday-Wednesday.
I think the biggest factor causing pain is my poor route choice. Too many 12-18% pitches.
But, when time is a constraint... straight up and straight down is a heckuva lot faster.
My Rx is for the pain is stretching and rolling, and if I had the fancy compression bootlegthingies I'd be using that too.
Rolling the legs, if they're fresh is nothing. If they're sore... oh man, that really hurt. But, it's a strange hurt because the more I roll the better I feel.
The question now is do I break up the next 3 days into an even 3000' ride... or 2k tomorrow, 3k Tuesday, 4k Wednesday... or 5k, 2k, 2k? Some of that will depend on the work days, but I'm pretty sure I don't want to leave a bunch to be done on the last day, in the middle of the workweek.
What's not in question is the fuel I'll be using as I get back at it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
Buy two of those, get the third free with promo code: GETBACK.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
---
166.2 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3324127075
WHAT STARTS BAD, ENDS...
Apr 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'D LOOKED FORWARD TO TODAY ALL WEEK. When I woke up the streets were wet. When I left it was raining. Five miles in the streets were dry.
So, that's how you're going to play it Mother?
The rocks at the first water crossing were gone, blown out by the gushing water. I charged it. Knee deep.
The mist kept coming down, but the soil was good. Lots of sand.
The second water crossing splintered into 5 different bottom bracket deep streams.
My drive train was smoked. Screaming in the low gears.
Messaged CH.
You home?
Yep.
Got lube?
Yep.
See ya in 5.
It's weird to bum lube off a friend and not hug or shake hands... especially when he went to town on my chain, then handed me the lube. I'd need it.
Seeing he was kitted up...
Where ya headed?
Up Harding - a local 9 mile gravel road climb.
You?
Trying to connect the Gravel Goon and nab 8000'.
Ride safe.
Roger that.
I was only two hours in. 2000' done.
Where we are the dirt switches from sandy to clay quickly. Sandy can be ridden in a flood. Clay... oh man, if it's been wet clay can clog your rig and have you walking in right quick.
The next 90 minutes I gained another 2000' but I had to forgo the Gravel Goon course... too much clay. Close by, at this point was Harding.
Why not?
Plenty of sand there, and plenty of climbing. Plus, I'll run into Chris on his way down and we can keep an eye on each other as we rip.
On the way over, I saw Tooch coming towards me... Hey Steve!
I hadn't been up Harding since '19 when it was graded. It was terrible then, too soft. But, all the rain had packed it and it was like a freeway. No problem for my gravel bike, HVY MTL.
3000' feet of climbing later, I finally ran into Chris. He was prepared. PEDALindustries KOM jacket for the heavy mist, neck gator. Me?... oh just my Camo kit. 50 degrees. And time to plummet.
He gapped me on the way down.
We rode side by side up Old Mojeska, me in the gutter, him on the center line. Talking. Man, I've missed riding and talking. I need my dude time.
We parted. Him to rougher MTB trails... and I still had 30 miles of mostly gravel ahead of me.
I could see a blue sky to the west, where I'd be going.
The trails were dried out. Quite a few families were out. Riding and hiking.
Ran into Joe... he was sporting a classic TMWC kit, and he reminded me I still owe him the 2020 kit. Sure will be nice to fire up the factory soon.
9 hours after what looked like an unpromising day, I returned. 80 miles. 10, 280' of vert...
... and that's a great end.
Speaking of starting... is it time for you to start up your PEDALposse subscription?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
164 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3318769837
GET BACK!
Apr 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IS GET BACK! THE BEST BEATLES SONG? Get back to where you once belong!
I dunno.
But, I dig the beat.
It's just a charger, a steamroller of a groove. And that's exactly what I'm gonna need manana, bright n early. So I'm playin' it on repeat while I get HVY MTL ready.
'Cause I'm getting back in the saddle for a long 'un.
It'll be day 3 of my 7 day challenge, and it's gonna - gotta - be the biggest of the 6 of 7 days I'm planning to ride.
8k of climbin'... nearly all off road, on the gravel rig.
Nutrition will be the biggest factor determining when my body starts singing...
Get back, Diesel
Here's how I'm gonna handle it:
Decent breakfast of fruit and nuts.
2 Scoops of GQ6 in 24 oz bottle per hour
1 Honey Stinger Waffle per hour
2 SaltStick Fast chews per hour
That should last me 6-7 hours... 300 calories/hour always bueno.
The waffles will be in my left hand pocket, 2 ziplocs with 4 scoops of GQ6 and a tic tac box with the salt chews in the middle pocket, phone and wallet in the right pocket.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
Buy two of those, get the third free with promo code: GETBACK.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/big-ride-supplies
---
165.2 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3312205069
YOU KNOW THAT GUY...
Apr 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HAVE THIS FRIEND, I shall call him by his real name because he deserves to be shamed. Who knows... maybe he'll quit texting me and do something with his life.
Jeff texts or calls me every couple of months.
It always starts out the same.
Hey man, what's up?
Just doing my thing.
Check out this bike.
The first time he did this... let me interject, I once loaned him a bike for over a year... I thought he was finally gonna do it. Actually plunk down the bones. We looked at a lot of bikes.
Anyway fast forward 10 years... he pulls it on me again yesterday.
Yes!, at least 10 years!!
Can you imagine not riding for 10 years, just talking about. Thinking about it. For what? To save a couple some bucks?
Bikes are so good now, you can easily get 5 year of top performance out of a proper bike. 10 or more if you're not racing.
So Jeff... Jeff, Jeff, Jeff...
If you spent $5000 on a really, really nice race bike. And rode it for 10 years. It would cost you $0.73 per day.
Seventy-three cents a day, Jeff!...
... 73 pennies a day for more fun than any amusement park, wonderful health, and terrific friendships with people like me.
But, not me.
Not now.
Don't you dare text or call me or lead me on one more time Jeffrey Chavez!
I don't want to see or hear you until you ride up on 2 wheels of our own.
Ya hear?!
Phew... that felt good.
You know what else feels good?
The secure feeling of knowing there is nowayinheck your wallet is gonna fall out of your jersey...
The reminder that yes you are a badassbikerider every time you grab your wallet...
... you can only get that with incredible, the oneofakind RaceDay wallet.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
I came up with it for one of our local rides called Swami's Wednesday Worlds. A ride of the most ferocious kind. The kind Jeff will never be on because Jeff is all talk... but the kind you might be on if you ever come visit. And if you do, you'll need our I.D.
Use promo code: JEFFISCHEAP
Or if you're in the PEDALposse use your personal code.
---
165.6 lbs
Stretch and roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3308097196
EVERYONE ELSE CAN FIGHT FOR SECOND
Apr 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONCE UPON A TIME I HUNG OUT WITH DR. DENIS WAITLEY. By that time, I was already a fan of his audio book the Psychology of Winning. And, I'd heard him recite his classic poem Someday I'll many times.
But, what really stuck with me was his retelling of the great American skier Bill Johnson, and his gold medal quest... specifically a statement Bill made one month prior to shocking the world.
Bill was a nobody. 23 year-old punk. Racing an event no American had ever one, neverever. But, he qualified for the Olympics and here's what he said...
“I don’t even know why everyone else is here,” he said. “Everyone else can fight for second.”
Denis used that story to demonstrate how the reticular activating system works.
In his words...
The reticular activating system performs the unique function of filtering incoming sensory stimuli, sight, sound, smell and touch. And determining which ones are going to make an impression in your mind. It decides from moment to moment what information is going to become part of your world.
In our biking words...
We go, where we look.
His conclusion...
Concentrate your attention on where you want to go, not away from where you don’t want to be. Because you’ll always move in the direction of your currently dominate thoughts.
Our biking conclusion...
Look only where we want to go.
Speaking of going places, are you going to ride with the PEDALposse?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
166.6 lbs
Coach Loran #3 + pull-ups
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3305351474
WHAT I LEARNED ON ZOOM TODAY
Apr 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HAD A ZOOM MEETING TODAY, and 1 great lesson.
It was work related. Before we even got started, dude had the gears to state I'm outta here in 30 minutes.
We cranked, hyperofocused, for 30 minutes.
At the end, I asked...
Where are ya off to?
Gotta go for a bike ride.
Sheesh... I didn't even know he was a rider let alone a master teacher in using time constraints to get a lot done.
He totally gets it.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
It's not that I'm a selfish pig, well I might be but this tshirt isn't proof of that... this tshirt is proof I know I'm a heckuva lot more productive when I'm getting the ride in...
... and you can get it delivered to your door for under $20 with this promo code:
ZOOM
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
167
Pull Ups
7.25 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3298166546
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