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TODD'S BLOG
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Get RaceDay Ready
SETBACKS, DO THEY REALLY SUCK?
TWO OF THE LAST THREE YEARS, have started with solid setbacks. In each case, I thought all was lost. Then I remembered the...
... advice of my dear ol' grampappy.
My boy...
... it's not the problem it's how you handle it.
Hard words for a love struck 14 yr old, getting nowhere with his puppy love.
The key to that wisdom it not so much handling the problem as...
... having faith and getting started.
Not running away.
Not giving up.
As I sit here completely wiped out by some sort of bug, coughing my brains out, I've come the realization...
- I will get better
- I will enjoy this slothful moment
- I will resist to bounce back too early
... it's early January f' cryin' outloud.
Take this setback for what it is...
... an opportunity to reset.
That's what racers do.
Reset.
Improve.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
===
158.3 lbs (not a good way lo lose wight.)
10ish hrs sleep (9:15pm-7:30am)
0 round of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BORN FOR THIS
THE REASON I LIKE TO READ FICTION is simply to imagine myself in impossible situations. The inner dialogue of the hero of my current book, Jericho Quinn, was spot on...
... to how I feel about racing.
Can you relate to this?
"He knew he was born for the rough stuff. His heart never truly beat until it was going full bore."
Exactly how I every time the gun goes.
It can get me in trouble though.
Like right now, with this nagging, awful cough and headache.
It's been going all week.
Have I rested?
No.
Just been doing all I can to keep going...
... totally idiotic.
===
158.1 lbs (not a good way lo lose wight.)
9ish hrs sleep (9:15pm-6:30am)
1 round of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GGGGGGGGGOALLLLLLLLLLLLLS
GOALS CAN BE GREAT. I say "can" because, let's be honest they usually aren't. I have a theory about that and it starts with...
.... easy.
It is so easy to set a goal.
Crud...
... set 100 goals.
And, that's the problem.
We set 'em like there's...
- the no other goals
- no current commitments
- we have limitless bandwidth
... no impact on our lives.
Having a million goals...
... is like having no goals.
I try and keep it to...
- physical
- business
- social
- spiritual
... one big goal per year.
It's a heckuvalot easier to accomplish one thing than twenty.
And guess what...
... if it's a big enough goal, it might take 5,10, 20 years.
===
159.2 lbs (yes, this bug I have has evaporated my appetite)
9ish hrs sleep (9:30pm-6:15am)
1 round of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STYLE CUES
I THINK WE ALL HAVE A SENSE of cycling style. You know, what we think looks cool, and what we don't. At least, you should by now...
... unless you are brandspankingnew.
New kids are typically nervous and anxious...
- am I wearing the proper gear, 'cause I feel nearly naked
- do I look like Darth Vader with this helmet and glasses
- how tall should my socks be
... form and function questions.
Once acquainted with the options...
- looking cool
- being comfortable
- optimizing for speed
... start to take precedent.
Here's my general rules...
- gloves match shoes
- socks match jersey
- dark bibs
... all things being equal.
Which leaves the helmet, or helmets.
And this insane offer...
... buy a KASK helmet, get a FREE RaceDay Bag.
https://pedalindustries.com/a/bundles/kask-helmets-c5et
===
160.2 lbs
9ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-6:55am)
2 round of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE KILLER SNACK
HOW ABOUT THIS - a snack that needs no refrigeration, is a snap to prepare, gives an energy boost, and produces negative calories. How many
... would you consume per day?
Yes, there really is such a snack.
Proven by science...
- pull ups
- pushups
- deadlifts
- box jumps
are my go to's.
Personally, I like to enjoy one every 45-60 minutes...
- energy boost
- calorie burning
- improved cognitive function
... are legit benefits in less than 2 minutes.
I was reminded of this on Andrew Huberman's podcast...
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huberman-lab/id1545953110?i=1000682843685
... he's an actual scientist,
I'm just a dude who figures stuff out.
Note: not all scientists know what the heck they are talking about...
- study
- test it
- reject or incorporate
... it's called science for a reason - being 100% certain for all time ain't it.
===
160.5 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-555am)
1 round of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
>
PARTICIPATION AWARDS
THE LEGENDARY ATHLETE was returning to competition. It was to be a momentous year, documented professionally, all the world would know...
... he was back to bring them to heel.
What a dream.
After hiring a new..
- coach
- nutritionist
- top secret strength doctor
... there was one beautiful medal to show for all the effort.
Not bronze,
silver, or
gold.
A beautiful finisher's medal.
Not what he, his family or sponsors had hoped for.
Here's the dill...
... every time we battle, we have a chance to learn and improve.
Finishing,
is where
it starts.
===
161.4 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-555am)
3 rounds of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TOO EARLY?
WELL, TODAY WAS DEFINITELY the best ride of the year. Chilly start, dust down, trails open for blasting...
... the bar has been set.
It wasn't just the conditions.
The route entailed...
- fast gravel
- twisty single track
- plus, pack dynamics
... all the things I love.
And, of course, my pals.
- Love Watts and I rolled at 7am.
- Hooked up with CV, local group road ride, at 8:50 am.
- Back to dirt, with Chuckles, Zone 2, and Mrs. Smith, around 9:30ish.
The rig of choice...
... the Crux, with RaceKing 2.0s.
What could make this ride even better?
Oh, I have an answer.
A forgotten trail was bulldozed during fire season...
- it'll add another 1000' of climbing
- sneak through penal a colony
- miles of single track
... and will pour us out at my favorite country store, for a Coke and chips.
We have 360 days to find the perfect ride...
... 2025 is off to a heckuva start.
===
159.8 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10pm-555am)
1 rounds of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts BoxJumps
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
NOOOOOO, NOT ZONE 1!
IF YOU'RE DRIVEN, and you probably are if you're a regular reader, seeing zone 1 on the training plan...
... is laughable.
We don't even know what that is.
We try to do it,
see the numbers.
Think, That's not going to help...
... awwwww, skrewit!
I have a solution.
It came to me on today's ride.
First, there was the absurdly long skid in the dirt...
- speed up
- back brake locked
- back wheel as unweighted as possible.
... just to see how long I could get it.
Then, the idea to jump onto and back off of every curb possible.
There was more.
My favorite was weaving the extensive traffic cones as long as possible without touching brakes or pedals.
90 minutes later, I coulda cared less about zone 1...
... I was in zone fun.
===
160.3 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:30pm-5:55am)
3 rounds of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
>
MY BIKE TOTALLY GOT AWAY FROM ME
CLEARING THE TOP OF THE CLIMB, I was leaning to initiate a turn back towards home. Not sure if I hit a rock, or what, but next thing I know...
... I'm on a different trajectory.
Was it meant to be?
I mean...
- not a cloud in the sky
- nobody on the trails
- crazy warm day
... geez.
Why such a hurry to get back?
Why not go straight up the the trail to the country store...
... for an ice cream bar?
Some turns really are for the better.
===
160.5 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9pm-530am)
3 rounds of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts BoxJumps
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DO THE UNTHINKABLE
HOW ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DO THE UNTHINKABLE, when it's unthinkable? Talk about a paradox. What it really means is...
... go way beyond the comfortable.
The great Wende Cragg captured the unthinkable...
- riding to a mountain top under a full-moon to watch the sunrise
- coaster brakes so hot they smoke after a downhill
- helmetlessly racing klunkers in jeans
... the birth of mountain biking.
50 years ago, her Pentax camera, snapped and preserved everything those...
... crazy pioneers were living.
The lifestyle.
Her documentary - click here - is as inspirational as it is mesmerizing.
Watch it.
It's got me thinking it might be a wholotta fun to get the hard training done M-F, and...
... use that fitness for adventure on the weekend.
===
162.7 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (1030pm-530am)
1 round of PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY I DID 100 PULLUPS, 190 PUSH UPS, 53 BULGARIAN SPLIT SQUATS TO CLOSE OUT THE YEAR
IF WE'RE GONNA BEGIN THE YEAR pretending we are committed to some outlandish new start, I figured I might as well end 2024 with...
... a ridiculous challenge.
I can look back and say If I could do that thing...
... I sure as heck can do this, too.
That's called stacking confidence.
At 6:45 this morning, I decided to do 100 pull ups today.
A first,
by a lot.
Since my normal m.o. 3x on the pushups, that'd 300.
And, I figured I might as well add 3-loaded Bulgarian split squats for every pull up, for 300 per leg.
Sounded doable at 6:45.
I'd just take a break every 30 minutes and bang out a round of the three moves.
It got hard,
the 30 minute goal drifted.
I learned...
- breaking up the day = hustle, productivity
- found my split squat limit to be 60 lb dumbell in each hand
- muscles felt awesome through 8 rotations
- posture is great
- these are better than smoke breaks
- got hungry, ate more than normal
- 30 min goes fast, aware of time waste
- required 12.5 hours to complete
... I can still do hard things.
PullUp 16,200 pounds
PushUp 30,780 pounds
Split Squat 2,029 pounds
Now, what to get done in 2025?
Happy New Year Y'all
===
162 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (1030pm-530am)
100 PullUps 190 PushUps 53 DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE SECRET SAUCE NOBODY TRIES
DID YOU PICK UP A TRAINING SECRET this year? From a book or podcast or YouTube? Accidentally overhear the local coach...
... whispering truth to an athlete?
I bet you did.
But, that's not the real question.
The real question is did you, yes you, or I, yes me...
... do anything about it?
Because what is the point to...
- look
- listen
- and learn
... if we're not going to at the very least give it a whirl?
After trying and testing...
- the Classified 2-speed hub
- even more calories when racing
- mountain bike tires on the gravel bike
... these are my top 3 secrets of the year.
What are yours?
===
164 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (11pm-7am)
PullUps PushUps DeadLifts
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
>
IF WE'RE GONNA GO BIG WE OUGHTA GO BIG
--- one of my favorites of the year ---
TODAY, I THINK I MIGHT HAVE TURNED THE CORNER. I'm mid-way through my experiment to train like Remco...
... 3 weeks of (for me) massive volume.
Last Saturday, end of week #1, I was pretty tired during the final miles of a 5 hour ride.
Exhaustion lasted through Sunday.
Monday the legs were oooof.
But, Tuesday, I felt pretty darn good...
... at the end of a hilly and peppy 60 miles.
With a cramped day, the only way I could stay on schedule Wednesday was to do two-a-days.
- Sunrise, 90 minutes of steepish climbs at moderate pace.
- PullUps, PushUps and Squats through the day.
- Evening, 2 hours of high Zone 2 rolling terrain.
... it was that second session on the bike where things were clicking.
I felt stong.
Even fresh.
3 days down,
9 hours saddle time.
Should be able to hit 18-20 hours by end of day Saturday.
It's a lot to juggle...
- solid days of work
- helping the kids with their kids
- and being present for Surfergirl
... wouldn't do this forever.
Fun to experiment.
Feeling might dawgawn fortunate.
===
162.4 lbs
15 hrs sleep (i really do have the flu)
No Strength
00 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
RULES FOR FEELING SICK
HAVING COLD OR FLU SYMPTOMS is always a tough one for me and begs the question should I exercise today? If I do, I might get worse or...
... I might speed up the process of getting better.
My general rules...
- above the neck, ride like heck.
- in the chest, better rest
... but, they didn't help me today.
Because I was just so determined that the fact I work up sweating was due to the heater was too high, and I wanted oh so badly to ride with the fellas...
... I headed out.
Instead of feeling a lot better post ride,
I cut the ride short.
The collapsed on the couch,
after paying my dues kneeling in the bathroom.
I guess I'll add to the rules above...
... running a fever, don't be an overachiever.
===
164.5 lbs
7Ish hrs sleep (10:30 pm-5:45am)
No Strength
00 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU ARE NOT A BODY BUILDER
FUN FACTOID, weight machines at the gym were developed by body builders for body building. Each machine can dial in a certain muscle to make it bigger...
... we are not body builders.
We do not want muscles that don't serve a purpose...
... might was well be a stack of tires around our gut.
You know what else we don't want..
... injuries.
I know what you're thinking.
What the heck does the Ol' Diesel know about strength?
Well, quite a bit...
- testing
- reading
- experience
... has proven to me what works.
Here's the dill...
- low reps (1-3)
- max weight (90-100% of max)
- almost every day of the week (4-5 days)
- lots of rest between sets (complete recovery)
- multiple joint movements (squats are 3 joints)
... on getting strong with minimal to no weight gain.
Take it easy.
Get a pro to help you with form, because you can do this...
... with minimal equipment from home.
===
Disclaimer - any and all advice is just stuff I've tried and worked for me and is not professional or medical.
===
162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45 pm-6am)
PullUps PushUps
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU FAILING ENOUGH?
WHY DO SOME PEOPLE ACT LIKE there is a gigantic barrier between courage and discretion. There's not. It's a fine line. If we are to improve by any measurable amount...
... we must balance precariously and charge forth.
This is truth.
Failure is going to happen when...
- going for an impossible PR
- experimenting with new training
- carving the curves so hard we start to slide
... if we are going to improve.
Why?
Because failure gives us that needed feedback to...
... learn what we need to learn to improve.
Now don't go doing some idiotic Evilknevil stunt.
But, push.
Push a lot.
Every failure teaches us,
we adjust,
improve.
So push.
Push through...
- fear
- pain
- limits
... and reach our next impossible.
As the great Tom Watson, founder of IBM at the time the premier computing company on the planet, preached to his engineers...
... Fail faster.
===
We have 5 days to ride the New Year's Resolution madness, and all year to make it happen.
===
162.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45 pm-6am)
PullUps PushUps only
5 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHOSE WATTS ARE THOSE?
ON MY WAY HOME from the local ride of destruction, I was thinking about the amount of watts the fellows were putting out and how destroyed I felt...
... how could I quantify that?
I know my numbers,
I don't know theirs.
I know how I felt,
I don't know how they felt.
Back in the day...
... I'd visualize my head on my favorite pro's body.
Crushing all comers...
- What would be be like to put out Pojacar power and escape tens of miles from the finish?
- How about a Cav-like explosion sprinting for the line?
- Or, the surge and surf stomping of the bunch by the great Sagan?
... like a boss.
Playing that game of imaging what would Pogi or Cav or Peto do is...
... a great way to take on the unconquerable challenge,
and kinda sorta maybe put out some inspired watts of our own.
---
162.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45 pm-6am)
PullUps PushUps Squats
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
>
I HEARD THE BELLS
RIDING ALONE IN THE FOREST can be dangerous. The low hanging branches, hidden roots and rocks, and...
... the occasional wild animal.
Not the bunnies,
squirrels
or deer.
No danger there.
I'm talkin'...
- bear
- moose
- cougars
... the big, mean and hungry ones.
So, we blissfully mount bells on are bikes.
Which reminds me of the great Ray Bradbury's book, Something Wicked Comes This Way.
One of the characters, Mr. Dark, is confronted with the carol I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day.
My favorite verse:
God is not dead nor doth He sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men.
Ain't nothing like a peaceful ride through the forest.
---
162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45 pm-5:45am)
PullUps PushUps
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE ELVES ARE DONE
WELL, I'M TUCKERED. The machines are tuckered. The many hands that make the magic happen are worn and achy. We're shuttin' 'er down for a couple of days...
... even elves gotta have an off season.
But, here's the dill.
The things we really want...
- speed
- power
- time
... we can't purchase.
The things we can purchase...
- equipment
- apparel
- trips
... we'd be embarrassed to task to a loved one.
We gotta be our own elves.
So, pretend your tapped on the cash...
... how are you going to get more speed, power, time?
Imagine it's spring time,
you're toeing the line...
- fit
- taught
- relaxed
... what's it gonna take?
Write it down,
wrap it up.
Give yourself a real gift.
Better yet,
give it to a friend or family member.
---
162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45 pm-5:45am)
PullUps PushUps
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HE'S MAKING HIS LIST
THE POWER OF A CHECK LIST is awesome. Not ticking the boxes, for that quick hit of dopamine, there is something even better than...
... getting it done.
Which is the point.
For me, the real power is in the creation of a list.
Exploring and considering...
- each and every angle
- what is needed
- what is fluff
... and building an empowering list.
It's harder than it looks.
But, done correctly...
... discipline is replaced with love and urgency.
Checking the box is dessert...
... one we can enjoy each and every day.
---
That pic is literally a page from the RaceDay Ready Journal.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/raceday-ready-100-day-journal
---
163.1 lbs
9ish hrs sleep (9:45 pm-7:20am)
PullUps PushUps Squats
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE WATTS WILL COME
ROLLED OUT WITH A DEVILISH PLAN for myself. After 3 months of goofin' around, it was time to warm up the glow plugs on the Ol' Diesel. Nothing like...
... tickling zone 5 with the ticker.
Here's how weak I am.
Never in a millionkazillion years could I will myself push over 175 bpm...
- not for fun
- not for a coach
- not doing intervals
... I need to set up something stupid.
Like mashing the mammoth 50mm MTB tires,
with 20 lbs of pressure,
on the gravel bike...
... out to the local throwdown.
It was 25 minutes of pure, paved ecstasy.
Sandwiched in between 90 minutes of dirt, before and after.
Not much.
But, a start.
Time to begin upping the saddle time,
and sprinkling in a dash of intensity.
No need to hurry,
just stay consistent.
Keep doing the strength stuff.
If you build it...
... the watts will come.
---
163.9 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (10:30pm-5:30am)
PullUps PushUps
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
OUR BEAST OF BURDEN
A FRIEND WAS GOING ON AN ON about how his brother had totally failed. The brother had committed to take his lifestyle to the next level. It wasn't going to be enough to get by...
... he wanted to live at the highest levels possible.
Did he make it?
You be the judge.
From where I was sitting, the brother truly had committed.
The results were easy to see...
- health firing
- family thriving
- business providing
- relationship with God and man aligned
... what more is there?
The friend could only see the missteps and shortcomings of his brother.
I think the point of putting ourselves out there, is to...
- be an example
- be held accountable
- show how we deal with failure
... and hopefully inspire others along the way.
Haters think it is an I'm better than you thing instead of the more simple...
... I'm doing my best, and appreciate your encouragement.
Truth is, commitment...
... is our beast of burden.
---
Every day builds on the next...
... this hat is a good reminder.
Ships FREE, order by 12.24
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1/products/every-day-is-raceday-trucker-curved-bill-adjustable-hat
---
163.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10:30pm-6:30am)
PullUps PushUps Squats n Such
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DESCEND LIKE A PRO
MY FRIEND MIKE has gotten the bug. Not wanting to deal with cars the went the dirt route, in the form of an MTB. He loves it, but...
... is legitimately concerned with crashing.
Legitimate in the form of...
... what we think about we bring about.
Fancying myself as somewhat of an expert,
I gave him this advice...
- Firm grip on the bars
- Arms looseygoosey
- Eyes/head up
... plus, have fun, confidence will follow.
The thing is,
we can apply that advice to literally anything.
Raising kids...
- Firm grip on getting them pointed in the right direction
- Arms ready to guide if needed or asked for
- Eyes/head monitoring their surroundings
Business/work...
- Firm grip on goals/objectives
- Loose on the how it gets done
- Eyes/head focused on where we're headed
Our next race...
- Get registered
- Plan the training
- Visualize the finish line
Come to think about it,
I wrote a book about that.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
166 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10:30pm-6:30am)
PullUps PushUps
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO RIDE?
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO RIDE? There are a million factors. At least we aren't too weather dependent, and we have the great outdoors as our playground. Compared to other activities...
... we got options.
My favorite is late morning...
- warmer
- sunshine
- break up the work day
... it's almost always alone.
Which is fine, but it can be risky...
... out in the wild.
Take today.
I didn't line up the turn up quite right,
took a stick to the face,
nearly in the eye!
Coulda been way worse.
Way.
Dusted myself off and rode on
decided to chill on the lovely
middle of nowhere
lawn chairs.
And count my lucky stars.
Which reminds me of the wonderful Christmas movie, The Shining...
... all workout and no reflection makes Jack a dull boy.
A good break in the action,
keeps us sharp.
---
164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10:30pm-6:30am)
PullUps PushUps Squats & stuff
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHEN YOU CAN'T DO WHAT YOU'VE ALWAYS DONE
WE THINK WE'LL ALWAYS BE ABLE TO DO WHAT WE LOVE. I remember specifically thinking after one particularly surprising race result...
... I could do this forever.
How does the saying go?
If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans.
He must have been dying on Monday.
There I was...
- in a beautiful part of the country
- hero dirt from the recent rain
- expansive, gorgeous views
... and I was battling double-vision.
For whatever reason, I took a huge step backwards in my recovery from my brain injury.
I couldn't dive bomb the downhills.
I couldn't do what I've always done.
Did it suck?
Yeah, totally.
Did I quit?
Not even.
I slowed down, and did what I could do.
Which turned out to be an echo from an elderly spiritual leader who was assessing his final year or two of life, who said those exact words.
Doing what he could do.
Am I freaked out?
Not yet.
First off, I called my friend Rick the behavioral ophthalmologist (think PT for you eyes).
We talked about how I'd laid off doing the exercises he'd given me when I was first injured.
In fact, I did the most basic one right away, because I only have the most basic tool on me, and almost immediately noticed an improvement.
Next, I called my surgeon's office. The NP called me back and suggested I go on a steroid for 5 days to ease any post-surgery swelling that can occur, even months later.
Tomorrow, I'll get back to the more vigorous eye exercises.
Doing what I can do, and hopefully...
... back to what I've always done.
---
166.8 lbs (not really sure, on a trip)
8ish hrs sleep (10pm-6am)
Push Ups (doing all I could do while vanning it)
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
>
re: IS IT WORTH THE SACRIFICE?
Dear Ol' Diesel,
I'm still trying to figure it out Todd. I check in on one thing for a few years and then I'll switch gears, etc.
2025 I've got no endurance plans...biggest focus is strength training 5/6 days per week.
Is this lack of dedication?
Is this why i never quite seem to get my goals?
Is it enough that I attempt which is more than 99.9999% of folks can say?
I dunno man, still in search of answers. But I will tell you my want for endurance is absent.
I don't want to get up early for a ride
I don't want to get up early for a run
Heck I don't really want to do any of those things right now.
I do want to spend a little extra time with the better half
I do want to slow down a moment and enjoy or take in this new reality of empty nesters...
Does this make me lazy? I worry I'm losing my edge.
Thank you for always sharing your thoughts,
I Just Wanna Be Strong In LA.
---
Dear I Just Wanna Be Strong In LA,
Haha… no, you are doing great. Take a break. Spend time with your wife. We love our kids, and we love being emptynesters. Super fun, lots of flexibility.
I’d say this, don’t train unless it sounds fun.
We are on a quick trip up the coast. Just the two of us. Rode with Susie until she was ready to rest, then rode a bit on my own. No hurry, no rush, no care to do X work out.
Now, I’m in the hotel room catching up and she is in the Jacuzzi.
Life is short, wives are more important than miles… and besides, they like us with a little muscle.
IMHO, you're on the right track.
Love ya!
The Ol' Diesel
---
166.8 lbs (not really sure, on a trip)
9ish hrs sleep 830pm-5:30am)
Push Ups
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IS IT WORTH 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.
---
Thrill a Runner or Triathlete in your life with a RaceDay Bag just for their sport.
Use this promo code: TRIRUN
To save 20% on ISD Running and Triathlon sport specific bags - code expires Monday, 12.26.24
---
166.8 lbs (too much recovery fuel?)
8ish hrs sleep 10pm-6:04am)
Push Ups
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
>
GETTING HIGH
NEARLY 6000' IN 32 MILES represents a good amount of climbing. Mostly straight up or straight down, on dirt. At about the 2 hour mark...
... I hit the highest point.
A few miles prior, a thought occurred to me.
If something bad happens,
I'm a long, long, long way from help.
The tires are new,
sealant fresh,
new chain,
cassette.
And, I was feeling pretty good...
... check, check, check and more checks.
Carry on,
enjoy the views,
and lack of humanity.
A bobcat appeared on the trail about 20 yards ahead of me,
it made a quick u-turn and loped along as I closed in,
before lunging over the side into the brush.
The red-tailed hawk surfed the gusty ridge,
searching for pray.
Chipmunks sprinted up and down the ancient pines.
Nature really does rock my world.
This mountain range is about a 35 minute drive from home.
I used to live closer,
and spent almost every Saturday up there, alone.
Looks like I've started the new year's resolution to adventure something new or different at least once a quarter...
... resolutions are kinda dumb.
Why wait?
As the great Yoda said...
... Do, or do not.
---
Thrill a Runner or Triathlete in your life with a RaceDay Bag just for their sport.
Use this promo code: TRIRUN
To save 20% on ISD Running and Triathlon sport specific bags - code expires Monday, 12.26.24
---
164.7 lbs
7ish hrs sleep 10pm-5am)
PullUps Push Ups
0 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
>
I CHOSE THIS?!
THE BROCHURE PROMISED A CHALLENGING EXPERIENCE, everything would be tested. Yeah, all the mind, body, spirt stuff. Plus...
... every ounce of perseverence.
I salivated.
Months of prep were stacked,
when the date came,
I was ready...
... I thought.
But, then shift got real.
Way harder than I expected.
The sections with the group were hard,
we encouraged each other.
When it got really difficult,
nature split us up.
The loneliness was brutal.
I knew, hoped, we'd regroup when the elements eased.
Work together.
Get 'er done.
Crazy as it sounds,
getting towards the end,
I thought I'd gladly do it again.
Winning didn't matter,
completing the mission did...
... and, yeah, those hands were gonna be raised regardless of place.
Crossing the finish line,
to my surprise and delight...
... was my dad,
my creator.
---
Thrill a Runner or Triathlete in your life with a RaceDay Bag just for their sport.
Use this promo code: TRIRUN
To save 20% on ISD Running and Triathlon sport specific bags.
---
163.6 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-6:27am)
PullUps Push Ups
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE BEST ON BIKE WORKOUT EVER?
THERE ARE A LOT WAYS to get stronger and off the bike. Routines, fads, and trends come and go. For my money...
... nothing beats a singlespeed mountain bike.
I built one up because it was fashionable.
Little did I know how addicting the workout would be,
how much I would love riding it.
It was like battling a bipolar bull...
- docile spinning along the flats
- UFC cage fighting any time it got steep
... and it worked perfectly.
At the time, cycling had been quarantined to a few days during the week because weekends were family time in the desert riding motorcycles.
My spin stayed smooth due to the fixed gear range - it wasn't a fixed gear, I could coast.
In order to get up the constantly changing elevations...
- legs
- arms
- lats
- back
... were all recruited and magnificently engaged.
No need for weights or any kind of resistance training.
It was basically going from one interval to the next, with luxurious spinning in between.
As I'm writing this, I'm thinking of the ol' Trek hardtail.
Dusty.
In the garage.
Maybe it's time to spend the least dollars possible and...
... make strength training fun and sexy again.
---
164 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10pm-6:20am)
PullUps Push Ups Squats & Stuff
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU BORING YOURSELF?
IS NEXT YEAR GONNA BE BETTER THAN THIS YEAR? It'll be different, for sure. Better is subjective, only you can determine...
... if it will be a year to remember.
We need new...
- locations
- friends
- events
- skills
... experiences that will change us.
Memorable,
forever.
As I start to fill in my calendar for next year,
it's tempting to play small,
safe...
... instead I do this.
First, I have to have one giant, unreasonable physical goal each year. (spiritual, mental, and social, too).
2024 it was Gravel Nats.
Next year (2025) hasn't crystalized yet, but it will.
Second, I think it's imperative to try a new event once a quarter.
Right now, it's looking like...
- March BWR AZ
- April Highlands Gravel (UCI)
- June BWR MT
- 4th Qtr is TBD
... it doesn't have to be fancy, could just be a weekend adventure someplace new.
Third, master something new, and have a plan to track progress.
For 2025, that is going to be bicycle mechanicing.
By the end of the year, I want to be able to do everything at a level that I could bail myself out if I was nowhere near a competent mechanic.
I'll be adding milestones to the calendar for that, and purchasing the proper tools.
There lots of other stuff on the calendar...
- date nights
- family activities
- work objectives
- service projects
... gotta make it all work cohesively.
Back in 2020 I set about getting out to the Cactus Cup for the first time.
I met a bunch of cool people, and made new friends.
Rode some fantastic and unusual terrain.
Found an outstanding Italian joint.
Cactus Cup stays in the rotation...
... I never would have found it if I hadn't ventured out.
They're having the 12 Days of Giveaways starting 12.12...
... I hope you'll win this bag, and join me out there.
---
Side note:
- I'm planning to do BWR AZ and stay the week in the desert for Cactus Cup the following weekend. If ya get out there for either one, let's meet up for sure.
- I'm also planning BWR UT, in May, and heading to Fruita/Moab the days following for some epic MTB. Lemme know if you're interested in joining.
---
164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:55pm-5:55am)
PullUps Push Ups Squats & Stuff
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE THUNDER
LOOKING FOR SOME BACKGROUND VIBES, I loaded up a Goettl Media raw file of BWR Arizona 2024. It was supposed to be my first A race of last year, but..
... life had other plans.
It's never too early to start doing recon.
I like Joe's videos because...
- the POV is always really good
- his comments teach a lot
- he's super respectful
.... in other words, he's a good dude.
Turning away from the big screen to get some work done it struck me how much...
... a race at speed sounds like thunder.
Especially the gravel sections.
I got so electrified,
I ditched the project,
and dug into examining the terrain.
Joe raced the long version, the Waffle.
I'll most likely do the shorter Wafer.
From the looks of it,
I think this terrain will call for the Race King 2.0s...
- lots of sand
- some rocks
- whoops
... means it's gonna be a hoot.
Can't wait for my next thunder storm.
---
164.7 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (9:55pm-5am)
PullUps Push Ups
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
EASY DAYS AND HARD DAYS ALWAYS
I WAS LISTENING TO A PODCAST with the superfamous coach of an ultrafamous racer, and the host, trying to dumb it down for us dummies, asked...
... What's the one piece of advice you'd give an amateur racer?
He had me on bearings and spokes.
Train easier.
What do you mean?
I mean most amateurs are doing too much.
Isn't that the way to get better?
No. I mean Yes, but no.
Explain.
If an athlete is training too hard all the time, and by too hard I don't mean to exhaustion, but, at a level that will not allow them recover, really recover, then they can't...
... go really hard, and get the big gains.
I thought about that today as...
- miles rolled by
- watts low
- h.r. lower
... my mind open and free.
That advice is easy to understand, hard to thoroughly absorb.
It feels wasteful.
Useless.
And so we ignore it,
to our detriment.
Being that it's a Monday, I tweaked the great Karen Carpenter's song...
... Easy days and hard days always get me fit.
This works for work, too.
There are days I'm resting, prepping, organizing...
... and days I'm slaying it with back to back to back appointments.
---
165.8 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:55pm-6:20am)
PullUps Push Ups & Stuff
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
COASTING IN
AS WE WIND DOWN THE YEAR, few of us are racing. Personally, having backed down the miles I'm feeling really fresh and spunky, which reminds me about...
... what I love about tapering.
Sure, there's the reduced miles and training and all the good feelings that come with that, but there's something else and if we're doing it right...
... is a huge benefit.
Because all the fatigue is leaving our bodies we not only start to feel really good, we have time to reflect on how we got here...
... all the work we've put in.
The result is where once we were tired, questioning out motivations and our capabilities....
... now we are confident.
Confidence is key to...
... ripping on raceday.
===
Now it's time to party!!
I wish I'd come up for this idea of this collection in time for New Year's...
... but, Hey! let's party like it's twenty twenty-five!
Here's the deal...
... order by 12.9, save 25%.
Use code PARTY25.
Most likely ships just after the New Year, if we can get it out early, we will.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-party-collection
---
164.5 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-5:30am)
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DRIVIN' THAT TRAIN
THE PROBLEM WITH CORROSION isn't the corrosiveness itself. That's bad, for sure. But, I find the real problem is...
... it comes on so slowly.
Then, catastrophic failure.
Because I've been neglecting my trusty MTB all year, well, basically for two all years...
... I was caught out, bad.
"All of the sudden",
my shifting was shift.
It wasn't really sudden.
For months the shifting had been off, but...
... just good enough to put away and forget about.
It had reached the point of no return.
Irreparable damage had been done.
Rather than simply replacing the chain in a timely manner,
an easy home repair,
at little cost...
... I had to get a divorce,
and a hot, new, young,
complete drivetrain.
Costly.
It's just a drivetrain,
not something that really matters...
... those things deserve immediate, constant loving maintenance.
===
Now it's time to party!!
I wish I'd come up for this idea of this collection in time for New Year's...
... but, Hey! let's party like it's twenty twenty-five!
Here's the deal...
... order by 12.9, save 25%.
Use code PARTY25.
Most likely ships just after the New Year, if we can get it out early, we will.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-party-collection
---
164.5 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-5:30am)
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THERE IS LITERALLY NO SCHOOL FOR THIS
WE'RE ALL OUT THERE ENDURING, and it's like we have no compass, no gps, no no map, no field manual. There is no associates, four year, masters, or doctorate degree...
... and yet, somehow experts evolve.
Oh, there's the occasional book.
Usually so filled with jargon and graphs they are worthless, but boy...
... the authors sure look smart.
So, we rely on our...
- inner voice
- experience
- friends
... and get to work like mad scientists.
We can and do glean much from...
- watching races
- podcasts
- youtube
... then, we do our best to put it into practice on the next ride, run, swim.
Kinda makes ya wonder if...
- Jobs
- Ford
- Edison
... were just having fun, fascinated with figuring out what was possible?
---
Got a friend who's a Triathlete or Runner?
Blow their minds with a sport specific RaceDay Bag.
Use this code and save 20%: TRIRUN
Good ONLY on in stock Tri and Run bags.
---
165.6 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-5:45am)
PullUps, PushUps, Squats
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE WORST GOAL EVER
ABOUT SIX MONTHS AGO, I set two lofty goals. One I accomplished, one I fell far short of. What was the difference between...
... success and failure?
Both seemed outrageous at the time.
They still do.
I each case, I knew everything would have to go perfectly in order to get anywhere near what I wanted to accomplish.
The one I attained, everything did go perfectly.
I went about my business,
mission accomplished.
The one I muffed, a massive unforeseeable mountain in the road popped up.
It was such a kick in the front of my bib shorts where my legs come together,
that it was mentally and physically debilitating.
Months later, unforeseeable mountain turned to gopher mound, I'm back on track.
There's all the fancy platitudes of goals...
- goal unwritten is a hope
- goals must be believable
- goals should be realistic
... we could go on and on.
But, I'm not sure that's the point.
Really.
Having the guts to...
- set an outlandish goal
- share it with real allies, not punks who puke on our dreams
- and take massive action
... is the lifeblood of everything I do.
Failure.
Success.
They matter, but not nearly as much what occurs...
... in the process of going after personal excellence.
===
We could wait until 1.1.25 to think, start, plan...
... or, we could grab a calendar and get down to business.
https://pedalindustries.com/calendar
---
166.4 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-5:55am)
PullUps, PushUps, Squats
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DECEMBER'S FOCUS AND AN EXPERIMENT
THIS MONTH'S FOCUS ISN'T FOR BABIES. Babies crawl, make a mess of their food, and are on a quest to get fat. I'm not. Are you? I'm looking to...
... start the year on fire.
For December...
- LSD, not tripping, long slow distance
- Strength work
- Weight loss
... this is my focus.
That should have me in prime shape to hit it hard in Jan and Feb.
Two months to prep for the first races,
BWR AZ and Cactus Cup.
For Jan and Feb, I'm planning an experiment...
- Tues/Wed back to back intensity days, with long tempo on Saturday
- Tues/Sat intensity, with zone 1/2 days in between
... for alternating weeks to build race specific fitness.
The intensity for BWR's start and dynamic surges,
the tempo for Cactus Cup's old school XC race.
Should be fun.
No,
really,
it should be fun.
Just gotta nail December to be hammering in March.
---
167.2 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45pm-5:55am)
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE RULE OF 3
NEW AND FIRED UP, I jumped full speed into the road scene. Since all I'd done was road race, I was one hundred million percent sure...
... I was born to race road.
While I shamelessly slobbered, the old wise man at the bike shop tried to duck.
When I stopped to breathe, he said...
... Sonny you don't know you lycra covered butt from a pothole!.
Huh?
Listen up, buttercup.
Gulp.
It takes three full years...
... to know what you're good at.
But...
But nothing, now get outta here and go to work.
He was right.
By the end of that first year, I realized I was a much better crit racer.
So, I focused on crits for the next two years.
When I found mountain biking,
I was sure I'd be a cross country racer.
Turned out,
I was a much better descender than climber.
When I finally got a gravel bike,
I was sure I'd just use it to mix up the training.
Turns out,
it's actually pretty darn fun to race gravel.
There's nothing magical about the three years...
... it's the three years of working at getting better that matters.
Oh, and before you quote the 10,000 hour rule, think on this.
There are 26,297.46 hours in 3 years, which is kinda like saying...
... if you live, eat and breathe anything for 3 years, magic happens.
Now get to work!
---
168.2 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (10pm-5am)
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S THE DATA DUMMY
I DO LOVE ME SOME DATA. In this vast digital world, there's plenty of it to access, crunch, and geek out on. The only question I have is...
... why? what? how? when?
It's more than what the Garwahoo is delivering.
That little screen can be divided so small the numbers become trivial, useless.
Then we can dissect it all on Starva, Training Peaks, etc.
Which brings up the question?
Do we.
And, if we do, what are we to make of it?
It is so tempting to wing it.
And, why wouldn't it be? That's how it was done from Adam till now.
Gut feel.
But, I had some sense knocked into me today.
Realizing inventory was running low on our gloves and socks, I was about to wing it on a replenishment production run.
Wait, why not pull a report?
Takes a few seconds.
Data don't lie.
And, whadaya know...
... winging it was not the way to go.
The thing about all the Garwahoo data is there's just a heckuva lot of it. We could...
- read a ton
- take some classes
- pester the nerd that rides
... or hire a coach, let a pro figure it out and tell us what to do.
I'm not for winging it,
and I'm not for outsourcing it...
... I'm more for figuring out what the data means.
Empowering myself.
---
167.2 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (10:30pm-6am)
PullUps PushUps & more
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BECAUSE IT SUITS US
ARE RUNNERS BETTER WRITERS or are there just more runners and therefore more writers that run...
... leading to a larger talent pool?
Christopher McDougall's Born To Run is probably my favorite running book.
Inspiring.
It got me to run.
Trail running for miles.
His book, Natural Born Heroes, got me totally into strength work because...
... the heroes were so naturally strong and lethal.
Jesse Itzler is a runner.
His book Living With A Seal is hilarious, and wildly challenges our limited beliefs about what we can accomplish.
Here are a few gems from my latest find...
- The most important thing we ever learn in school is that the most important things can't be learned at school.
- With my mind elsewhere I'm able to run for a long while, keeping up a natural speed that doesn't tire me out.
- There are three reasons I failed. Not enough training. Not enough training. And not enough training.
... from What I Think About When I Talk About Running.
For me, it's not so much the running that is compelling, but the book's ability to help me understand...
... why I love riding, and enduring.
How about you...
... got any faves?
---
166.4 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (11pm-6:05am)
PullUps PushUps
0 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I'LL RACE YOU TO THE CORNER
AT SOME POINT, and it doesn't have to be now, but it will happen soon enough, we wake from our hibernation. Something stirs, and in disgust with our gluttony and laziness...
... we show our puffy faces.
It happened for me today.
I thought I could postpone it a few more weeks,
but there I was meeting at the start
of a ferocious ride.
The ride down was lovely.
Seeing the fellas, charming.
Even the first little climb
showed some promise.
It ended there.
My ballast keeping me grounded.
Basically, I made it to the first corner.
Now, I have a baseline.
And, it wasn't all bad.
I was only two seconds off my PR on that 6ish minute effort.
Things quickly went downhill after that.
Like, really fast...
... errrr, really sluggish.
On the next section I was 3 minutes off the pace.
20, TWENTY!, % slower.
I pulled the plug at that point,
proudly did the lonely ride of shame back to the van.
This Thanksgiving weekend, I am darn...
... thankful to have the desire to improve.
'Cause when desire goes,
when there's no more fire,
then what do we really have?
Gonna make to the second corner next time!
===
In between Black Friday and Cyber Monday are...
... Get your overstretched lycra in gear Saturday and Sunday.
Since some of ya pointed out the code wasn't working perfectly, I extended through Sunday.
TNX24 will save ya 20%.
That is if you're relating to my admission of bottoming out and still reading.
Which thrills the heck outta me.
---
166.4 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (10:15pm-5:55am)
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SATURDAY TRADITIONS
AT DINNER WITH THE FAM, I asked What was your most memorable Christmas gift? The kids are adults now, I was curious what they'd answer. I knew exactly what mine was...
... the moment the words left my mouth.
What surprised me however,
was Surfergirl's answer.
My bike, it definitely wasn't new, and I didn't care. It was freedom, we'd roam the streets of Kailua, and all to go the donut shop on Saturday mornings.
That surprised me.
Not the donuts.
Not the pre-ownedness.
I've asked myself a million times...
What did Surfergirl see in me way back when,
What does she see in me now,
... maybe she saw a kindred roamer?
Because, I was doing the exact same thing on my Stingray...
... roaming the streets and dirt lots with my pals on Saturday mornings.
Still am.
Oh, my favorite Christmas gift?
The red Schwinn Le Tour I drooled over when my mom's boyfriend took me to Fullerton bikes. I imagined myself flying up the hills and traveling great distances...
... shocked me to see it with a bow.
Wish I'd kept it.
---
166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10pm-6:10am)
No Strength Work
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE KNOWLEDGE CHEAT CODE
MOST PEOPLE don't know this. Some do, like the great Steve Jobs. Meanwhile, we have this amazing cheat code...
... for insider knowledge.
Take today's ride.
Love Watts brought his wife's best friend's husband, and let me know he's a triathlete.
Here's the beauty of riding with someone.
Because when his wife's best friend's husband told me he was brand new to the gravel scene, I thought...
... Oh boy! This cat is gonna get wrecked once we hit the dirt.
Nope.
Dude can shred.
Guess what else?
My friend's wife's best friend's husband, who had been to our town many times, had no idea how amazing the gravel riding could be here in "suburbia".
Quite canyons.
Canopied trees.
Miles of single track.
What Steve Job's knew is if he went on a long walk with someone he could really get to know them.
It's the same with us.
While humanity zips around in cars...
... we go for ride, run or swim and get to know humans
and the places they live.
===
Black Friday.
I see all the unbelievable sales and savings, and sometimes I wonder..
- is it something a company does when the import gear made with slave labor in China?
- are my competitors that desperate?
- if it's such a great strategy, why don't the greatest brands like Apple, Cervelo, Tesla, Belgian Waffle Ride, Luis Vuitton, Kask, Tiffany, do it?
... seems like a good way to cheapen, destroy a brand.
But, what if it's a way to reward the loyal, cult following we have developed..
... for example my friend's wife's best friend's husband has three of our RaceDay bags.
How cool is that?
So, here's the deal.
Since you passed the test,
since you know me.
Use this code, TNX24, to save 20%.
It is only good through the 29th of November 2024.
Yes, I know it's not a mind blowing discount, but you know...
... we make our bags and apparel right here in the USA.
Quality.
===
166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10pm-555am)
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THIS IS SO OVER THE TOP
DO SOMETHING ENOUGH TIMES and we start to pick up on the littlest things. Trust me, I've done this twisty country road decent at least 1000 times, when it comes to going fast...
... the littlest things matter.
On Tuesday, I hit 46.2 mph.
Not bad.
Not my best.
The PR is 50.2 mph.
A few of the little things...
√ Aero helmet
√ Tight tuck
√ Winter blubber
√ Fast wheels
... I had most of it right for top speed.
But, there was one massive ingredient.
It's not enough to make it to the top...
... gotta be sprinting past the goal to reach escape velocity.
===
166 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (930-530am)
PullUps PushUps
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SLOWVEMBER, DEEPSLUMBER AND JAMUARY
IT'S MORE THAN OKAY TO CELEBRATE the holidays. In fact, it's mandatory. Will we sneak out for a turkey trot or social ride? Heckyes! Will we pile on the food?...
... it'd be a shame not to.
Nothing better than the 3 F's...
- Food
- Family
- Friends
... for our slow-thudding hearts.
Bring on Deepslumber...
- More parties
- more events
- less time
... soak it up.
Jamuary will soon be to the rescue.
It's so dang easy to get carried away and spend the entire first quarter trying to...
... undo what we done did.
Honest question,
asking for a friend...
... you planning to wake up on 1.1.25 ready to jam?
===
166.4 lbs
7ish hrs sleep (9:30-5am)
No strength work
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
A PAIR OF 45s MADE ME OPEN MY EYES!
LEAVE IT TO HOLLIES to set things right. I'm not sure when it heppened, but it's pretty dawgawn clear my sprint is dead and...
... we gotta do some resurrectin'.
A veil of dust and yuck has been yanked open.
I couldn't put my finger on it,
but on today's MTB ride I could sense it.
Something I love, is missing.
The shackles of endurance were weighing me down...
... the chains getting longer and heavier.
It's my sprint, my freakin' sprint.I used to love to sprint...
... not the fastest, but cagey and wiley.
That was it.
Somehow, the singular focus on long endurance races had killed the speeding spirit...
- That fire.
- The angst.
- Thunder and lightning
... slumbered like a middle-earth Tolkien forest.
Doing the dishes an old tune came into my mind...
... What's the name of that?
Next thing I know, Long Tall Woman...
... is cranked up to 11.
Dishes, instantly done..
I'm jamming, alternating between...
- Squats
- PullUps
- PushUps
- Bent Rows, BENT ROWS!!!
... reactivating those muskulls.
Can't freakin' wait to get on my bike, and sprint!
===
166.7 lbs (starting to wonder if my scale is stuck)
8ish hrs sleep (10:15-6:30am)
PullUps PushUps Squats Rows
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
PUTTING A RACING SUPERPOWER TO GOOD USE
RACE LONG ENOUGH, and you can eye a competitor and know, pretty quickly, if they are suffering. And, if we're feeling good...
... this is when we pounce to distance ourselves.
But, should we,
always?
Some of the tells are...
- heavy breathing
- sloppy form
- hanging on
... they are mostly easy to note.
Though there can be fakery...
... for the worse and the better.
But, what about out of competition?
Can we use this highly-honed superpower for good...
... when neighbors, friends and family are struggling?
Even faking All is well.
Rather than pounce...
... can we embrace and lift up?
===
166.7 lbs (starting to wonder if my scale is stuck)
8ish hrs sleep (10-6:30am)
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE SEXIEST HELMET HACK EVER?
IT'S NOT OFTEN someone eyes us over and says we look sexy all kitted up. Maybe that's why it worked this time, 'cause there I was with my helmet on, and she said...
... you look sexy!
It never would have happened if I wasn't...
... on my way to my new sexy helmet hack.
When I get home...
- I put away the bike
- stow the shoes and glasses
- strip and head to the shower
... head into the house.
So there I was...
... buck naked.
Helmet on my head.
Normally, this would merit a head shake.
Another silly idea.
Here me out.
Step into the shower post ride and pop out...
... helmet and body, fresh as can be.
===
Do you think it has anything to do with penning in Date Night on the RaceDay Calendar?
Right now, the miracle working deal includes...
- the Calendar
- the Annual Plan Masterclass
- plus, one month of the Be True & Rip Alliance
... a magical way to rule the year.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/giant-raceday-calendar-2025-bundle
===
166.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (10-5:50am)
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HOW TO 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!
===
Right now, the Giant calendar includes...
- the Calendar
- the Annual Plan Masterclass
- plus, one month of the Be True & Rip Alliance
... a magical way to bring on the year.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/giant-raceday-calendar-2025-bundle
===
166.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep (9:45-6:30am)
PullUps, PushUps
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
LUCK OR HARD WORK?
Jun 29, 2022 TODD BROWN
AT THE END OF THE RACE, we've answered one question. But, not the other. Which is the one we really want to know. Not who...
... but how?
Who won is always good to know, more so if it's us!
Which leaves us really wanting to know How?
If it was luck...
- competitors making big mistakes
- flatting just after the finish line
- genes
- etc
Or hard work...
- more time
- better discipline
- relentless racing
How is what we want to know...
... but, that is also a false god.
There's only one thing we can control, that really matters...
... how hard we work.
Aren't we lucky!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
Just don't forget your changing poncho. Because, even though you're looking great...
... we still don't want to see all of ya.
Use this promo code to save 20% through the 4th -> HARDWORK
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
---
163.
7.7 hrs
Body Water 60.8%
1 Rounds of Strength Circuit
20 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
YOU ARE WORTHY, YOU ARE DEVINE, YOU ARE...
Jun 28, 2022 TODD BROWN
MY DAY WAS BOOKENDED BY RIPPING, and I've just got to tell you about it. Because when things like this happen they gotta be shared...
... ya just never know who needs to hear it.
At early o'clock my nephew had me huffin' up what has to be the greatest trail network of any city this side of the Wasatch. Draper UT took their ball and stick money...
... and poured into miles and miles of eversosweet single track.
The kind that is easy to climb if you want to go easy, and a burner if you wanna burn...
... the lungs we searing.
Which was totally worth it because whoever is building these trails is extra genius...
... flowy, bermy and fastfastfast.
There is no way I could have predicted I'd be able to shred like this at this age. But here I am, an ol' grampa...
... hitting the berms so hard my tires were compressing to the rims.
But, then again who could have predicted 40 years ago that the great Carlos Santana would be headlining an outdoor concert playing old standards...
... and ripping the collabs with current artists.
At SeventyFreakinFive!!
It was incredible.
The best line he said all night, talking to the audience was...
... You are worthy, you are divine, you are badass!
Don't ever forget it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets
A great way to remember, of course, is the RaceDay Wallet™...
... maybe a custom one, to remind you of your goals
These are fun.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets
---
163.1
7.2 hrs
Body Water 61%
3 Rounds of Strength Circuit
10 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
ARE YOU DOING ENOUGH?
Jun 28, 2022 TODD BROWN
MY FIRST ROAD RIDE WAS 6 MILES. The next day, 12. 6 weeks later, 125, sunrise to sunset. That turned out to be my longest ride for nearly 3 decades. There's something to be said for the adage...
... Piles of Miles.
Why is that?
What is magical about doing a lot?
TRADITIONS.
Jun 27, 2022 TODD BROWN
TRADITIONS ARE LIKE CEMENT. Some make a lot of sense and bring outsized honor, like the Yellow Jersey at the Tour. Others, not so much...
... so be careful.
Strong traditions bring us together, give us a common language, keep us going when it's tough, provide consistency when we're getting pulled at all ends...
... can be the foundation for healthy, productive living.
The group ride that meets at the corner.
That one race a year we all train for.
The "training camp" we love.
They take effort to start, but they keep going if done right. New people will join, the baton will get tossed, and...
... everyone enjoys an elevated experience.
Some of the best ones are more personal, like 3 from today:
- Climb the incredible Alpine Loop in Utah
- Ride with a local friend/customer
- Get my bike tuned by the best
I hope you have, and/or are developing, some great ones, too.
Yeah, the stop at Sundance for a giant cookie and Coke is another.
Love this guy's vibe and professionalism... making him a new bag, poncho, supertech-t
Rocking these gloves and sock on the patriotic holidays is another.
For the moment, so is buy the gloves and the socks are free
---
163.3
7 hrs 81%
Body Water 61.1.%
3 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
THE SCARIEST THING I'VE LEARNED FROM STRAVA
Jun 26, 2022 TODD BROWN
LOOKING AT THE DATA FROM STRAVA, I'm sure of one thing. It's so clear, it's scary. So, I'm wondering if you've noticed it...
... and found it frightening?
Here's what I'm talking about.
Take a segment of 5 minutes or more. Check it out. Relive the last time you rode it, and you know for a fact...
... you could shave a second off of it.
Maybe more.
In no time, we can name 3 things we could do to get a new PR.
That's scary to a lot of people, me for sure,...
... to realize we are so far from our maxing out potential.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Maybe you're ready for my 10-Week RaceDay Ready Challenge
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
---
161.7
8.5 hrs 90%
Body Water 61.2.%
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit
10 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
ABOVE THE NOISE AND CONFUSION
Jun 25, 2022 TODD BROWN
IT DOESN'T TAKE LONG TO DETOX and the benefits are unmistakable. Every time I do it, I wonder why it's even a thing...
... shouldn't we always be clean?
It started last night.
After exploring some new single track around Grampa's cabin, we lit some logs, grilled some kabobs, eased back into the zero gravity chairs...
... the Milky Way whispering What's the hurry?
This morning, on a long, twisty single track climb above Brianhead, I found myself confronting the same call from nature...
... What's the hurry?
This is a challenging climb, just steep enough to burn, to want to dismount, to quit. A cold front was massing on the peaks to the west, dark purple skies..
... didn't help.
I was hoping the predicted rain would bring thunder and lightening and give me an excuse to pull the plug...
... to hurry back.
The forest dead silent...
... listening to me?
A spooked deer...
... watching me?
Bird song echoes...
... calling me?
I gave in.
Slowed down.
Snuggled in Mother Nature...
... continuing the 2 hour climb,gliding to the top of gusty, cold summit.
I knew why I was there.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
After a few big raindrops exploded at my feet, it was time to...
... grip it and rip it.
Right now, it's buy the amazing gloves and get the badass socks for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
Want to go faster on RaceDay? Click here.
---
162
8 hrs 72%
Body Water 601.%
0 Rounds of Strength Circuit
0 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling
THE ABC'S OF THE RACING PYRAMID
Jun 24, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE IS A HIDDEN BENEFIT TO RACING OFTEN. It ain't fitness, ain't knowing your competition, ain't skill improvement, ain't none of that. You'll see it...
... as soon as I say it.
At least you will if you race a lot. If you don't race a lot, it's invisible to you...
... you also see it, but you don't know what it is.
Those who race a lot are anxious, but not like those who don't.
Those who don't race a lot have all kinds of anxiety. They are at a huge disadvantage because their emotional energy is leaking, spouting out all over the place...
... and they haven't even crossed the start line.
Racers use a pyramid strategy to avoid all the above.
Think of the A race on top.
Two B races below.
Three C races at the base.
Got it?
I don't taper for my C races. They are just part of the year, with the added benefit of going through the raceday rituals. I have no stress, no need to accomplish X. These are a great place to try different tactics.
B races, I'll taper a bit for those. And I'll have definite tactics to implement and do all I can do to see if they work.
With the base of many C's and some B's I arrive at my A races...
... calm, a sense of serenity.
I've been here before, I know what to do, I'm anxious to execute my plan...
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... and just like every other race I pull on the best gloves and socks in the world.
I like the red, to match my helmet and pull the red accents of my race kit.
We have lots and lots of colors
Right now, it's buy the amazing gloves and get the badass socks for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
161.5
5.75hrs 72%
Body Water 601.%
4 Rounds of Strength Circuit
0 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling
ZONING OUT IN NUMERO DOS
Jun 23, 2022 TODD BROWN
ZONE 2 TRAINING HAS BECOME ESSENTIAL TO ME. There is nothing better to build a huge cardio engine...
... but that is only the half of it.
Nearly all of my zone 2 training is alone.
Like most, my schedule can get hectic, and it is a challenge to meet others for a session more than once or twice a week...
... so, it's just me.
Not only am I riding in solitude, but the majority of the rides are off-road, in nature. Or, off the highway on a bike path.
Here is where I tap into the superpower of zone 2...
... and maybe you do the same.
I noticed it long ago, when a certain infamous champion dominated cycling's collective consciousness. As I rode along, I imagined I was him. My posture changed, my cadence changed, my thoughts were elevated to those of a champion.
Years later, I realize zone 2 can be a meditative workout.
Far from the distractions of life, I am with my thoughts. Sometimes, for sure, I am envisioning a great outcome on the bike. Reviewing what I'll do in preparation, and how I will perform at a given time...
..., but, that's not all.
I take this time to imagine all areas of life having the outcomes I desire. My marriage, our kids and grandkids. Our long-term physical and spiritual health. The people I serve. And, most definitely, where PEDALindustries is headed.
That is how I do zone 2 training...
... how about you?
When I'm out for a really, really, really long zone 2 sesh, I like to have a little lotion for my bits and pieces...
... and this is my favorite.
Lasts longer and requires less than other brands.
Use promo code: ZTWO
---
163.5
7.6 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 24 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
IT ONLY TOOK ME 10 YEARS
Jun 22, 2022 TODD BROWN
WHEN THE PROMOTER OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL MID-WEEK MTB RACE came over to say Hi last night he jumped on my lap. Then, noticing I had the Race Leader jersey...
... Did you win the series?
Yep.
I'm the same age as you were when you began coming out here.
No way!
Yeah, it was then that you started to get back into racing.
He's got a good memory.
So do I...
... years of getting whacked by the fastest cats in the county.
Malcom Gladwell famously said it takes 10,000 hours to be great at something. Others have said 10 years...
... I'd have to agree, at this point.
But, what is interesting to me is along the way, through all the learning, struggling and juggling, it doesn't seem like much progress is being made. Here a little there a little, 'till one day we wake up...
... hardly recognizable to our previous self.
To outsiders it seems like overnight,
so all of the sudden,
outta nowhere.
But, those who travel the lonely road to explore their potential know different...
... they know what it took.
The victories are nice, the journey getting there is better...
... whether or not a podium is climbed.
PRs > KOMs
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Until I write the book, I'll keep encouraging you to take my 10-Week Challenge...
... it only took me 10 years to figure it out.
What are you waiting for?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-ready-how-and-what
Sparky Sprocket made my night... came over to introduce himself and thank me for writing The Way of The RACER because it inspired him to come out and race, and do a triathlon... nothing better than that : )
160.7
6.25hrs 78% (always hard to sleep after an evening race)
Body Water 60.%
4 Rounds of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
MY MONEY IS ON THE VAMPIRE
Jun 21, 2022 TODD BROWN
I DON'T KNOW IF HE'LL WIN THE TOUR DE FRANCE FOR SURE, but I'm pretty confident he'll do better than his lauded teammate. I mean, he smoked him last year...
... so why not back him for the overall win?
He climbs like he has wings, and he looks like a vampire.
He's awfully young, you say?
I say... Whotheheck cares, he's got vampire strength!!
... and, his team is going all in on climbing, leaving Dennis and bringing Kuss.
Plus, everyone's gonna have to watch the Slovenians.
All, he has to do is act like No One Of Consequence, and be patient...
... like a heartless, bloodsucking vampire.
Who are you backing for the win?
Tadej is the obvious choice, but gimme your best 2nd choice.
---
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Speaking of the obvious choice...
... have you added these superlight and airy gloves to your wardrobe for the Fourth?
You are going to be properly patriotic that day aren't you?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
161.d
8 hrs 87%
Body Water 60.8%
1 Round of Strength Circuit
30 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
NO ONE OF CONSEQUENCE
Jun 20, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO MAKE YOURSELF KNOWN at a race amongst strangers. Some go The Hulk route, dancing and prancing menacingly loudly during the warm up and on the start line...
... I prefer the tact used by Dread Pirate Roberts.
In fact, I even had my favorite line from the pirate printed on my special one-off kit a few years ago...
... No One Of Consequence.
That's exactly what you want the competition thinking when they look over at you.
If you are friendly, humble, meek,
If you point things out and ignore the Hulks,
If you pull through at the correct pace vs gapping everyone,
If you ham it up on the hard efforts with your tongue hanging out...
... competitors will automatically take you off the predator list.
Then, you move in for the kill.
---
The thing about the Dread Pirate Roberts was he had all kinds of skills and tricks...
... if you're up for a challenge to learn some of mine Click here.
---
163.9 (Fatter's Day)
7 hrs 81%
Body Water 60.9%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
NO POWER METER NEEDED
Jun 19, 2022 TODD BROWN
YOU DON'T NEED A POWER METER. You don't need a coach. It's June, the days are long, kids out of school...
... and something great is on your calendar.
Everything is getting easier.
Right?
No.
Not really..
Actually, not one bit.
It only seems easier because you have developed a super power...
... persistence.
A power meter can be helpful,
a good coach transformative,
as long as you persist...
... in carving your own personal greatness.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Isn't it great to live in a country where you can do that?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
162.3
9.5 hrs 88%
Body Water 60.8%
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps +0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
L' GO MY LEGO
Jun 18, 2022 TODD BROWN
HE DIDN'T MEAN ANYTHING BY IT. Was just trying to be nice, helpful. I've done the same thing, and met the same response...
... Get your hand off my back!
It happened while the group was charging up an 8 minuteish climb, culminating with The Wall. And it's a wall.
But this was a bit earlier, when the speeds were still in the high teens...
... and I was quickly moving backwards.
I didn't want the help, not because it's kinda humiliating (yeah, I'm proud that way) but because it's the end of a big building block week. Lots of miles, lots of lifting...
... the legs are heavy and I wanted to enjoy all the pain.
Not be ripped off from a push,
by a guy,
on an
ebike!
That's part of the big week experience, big heavy, big pain...
... big push through it.
Sounds like I'm having a baby.
But, that's kinda what a big build period is...
... giving birth to a shiny new you.
Each week is a like a lego piece, a block to build on. Another one next week, then the real racing starts on 7/4...
... can't wait!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Speaking of 7/4...
... you know what gloves and socks I'll be rocking at the Firecracker 50!
You are going to be properly patriotic that day aren't you?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
162.8
7 hrs 73%
Body Water 61%
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps +0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
NOTHING LAST FOREVER
Jun 17, 2022 TODD BROWN
NOTHING LAST FOREVER. Why is that so hard to remember, especially when racing. Not the tallwind blowing us up the road, not the highhigh climb pounding us into submission...
... it all will change.
I was going over race strategies with a friend today who was mentally rehearsing his planned training ride tomorrow. He's prepping for Leadville.
I'm gonna charge every hill as hard as I can.
You shouldn't do that.
But, I want to.
Yeah, you and every other sparklypuppy with fresh legs on raceday. You do that and you'll be blown to pieces on the second half of the race.
.... hmmm....
Not hmmm, you want to be humming because that freshness is gonna fade into superstaleawfulness.
What should I do?
The first thing we should do is remember nothing lasts forever.
Not the pleasures,
nor the pains,
of racing.
We need to embrace the pain and grind through it...
... and embrace the pleasure and make it last.
These are superpowers only those on the edge of personal paramount performance learn to harness.
---
You know what else doesn't last forever? Riding buddies. The great Chris is moving away in a few weeks, today was our last ride together...
... cherish your friends, they will eventually move on too.
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
162.3
7.8 hrs 88%
Body Water 61%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
AIMLESS MAN MAKES DISCOVERY!
Jun 16, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE IS NOTHING LIKE RIDING with no particular place to go. While aimlessness is looked down upon in general...
... on a bike, it's the best.
Like today.
My only objective was to find the roughest trails around so i could further refine my suspension set up. The goal is to max out the travel once on every ride...
... that's the full party mode.
Best tracking through corners,
smoothest ride,
max speeds.
So, when I came across a sign for a new2me trail that read Everything's Getting Worse...
... I couldn't resist.
It's newish,
quite skinny,
carved into a steep hillside,
with very tight switch backs,
culminating in controlled skid through a slot canyon...
... perfect.
Aimlessness wins the day, yet again.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
You know who wasn't aimless? Benjamin Franklyn, maybe the best autobiography I ever read.
Just another reason to rock the red, white and blue next month...
... are you ready?
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
160.7
7.75 hrs 83%
Body Water 60%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
THE 3 Ps OF REAL ATHLETES
Jun 15, 2022 TODD BROWN
I'D BE LYING IF I DIDN'T TELL YOU I LOVE ATHLETES MORE than non-athletes. We are kin. I get you, no matter your sport...
... I just do.
But, something has changed these past few years.
It's not the same.
I still enjoy watching pro athletes perform, but not nearly as much as I have enjoyed probing...
... the very edges of personal potential with my comrades.
Out here, on the edges, time is precious.
More precious.
Limited.
Cutting the fluff, time spent watching (anything but our closest family and friends), has been instrumental...
... to learning what is possible and what works.
That's why I love the real athletes, why I connect with them at the dinner party, why we bond while waiting in line...
... we are on the same path to paramount personal potential.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
Isn't it wonderful to be free to pursue this path...
... and the positivity that spills into everything else we do?!
I cherish their vision and bravery, and look forward each year to feel the spirit of the 4th.
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
Want to go faster? Click here.
160.2
7 hrs 78%
Body Water 60.2%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
COMPELLING STORIES.
Jun 14, 2022 TODD BROWN
SOME PEOPLE ARE SO COMPELLING. My friend Alex, after making tens of millions gives away all his secrets for free. My friend Mike, on a deep and expansive personal spiritual journey, shares everything he's discovering...
... and then there's ThinkMTB Dave.
He fell in love with mountain biking later in life, while running a crazy enterprise.
Just like that, the entire company got free kits and entries into all the local races...
... he could see the benefits of healthy recreation.
Now Dave is rounding up all the local mountain bike clubs so we have a unified voice in government and stewardship over the lands.
What is compelling about these three friends is their zeal to improve the lives of as many people as possible because...
... they feel compelled.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
It reminds me of a group of people in the late 1700s till the mid 1800s-ish.
Who felt compelled.
I cherish their vision and bravery, and look forward each year to feel the spirit of the 4th.
Buy the gloves and socks... socks are free at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
162
7.3 hrs 75%
Body Water 59.8%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
POWER TO WAIT
Jun 13, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO IMPORTANT POWER RATIOS. The ever popular power to weight, and the less well known power to surface area...
... the both take time to develop.
Let's cover power to surface area first.
The more upright you are, the more shift you have flapping around in the wind...
... the more surface area you have ssssslooooooowwwwiiinng youuuuuu dooooooooowwwwwnnnnn.
You've got to reduce that, while increasing your power by:
- getting a proper bike fit to maximize your power and position
- getting aero apparel
- getting an aero helmet
- shaving that forest on your legs you were so pubecently proud of
- testing positions by timing yourself freewheeling a local hill
... and that's just the surface, and only regarding your body in terms of aero.
As for power to weight, thou must weigh thyself daily.
- first thing in the morning
- after you potty, trim your nails and strip
It is the only way to get a grasp on your diet and how it effects your weight. It's immediate feedback...
... you'll either smile or have a little chat with yourself about how you can and will! do better.
And, don't be spouting off about how light you are after you just finished a hundy and didn't drink or eat enough...
... that's cheatin' yourself.
Reduce your surface area,
reduce your weight...
... you are instantly faster.
Well, not instantly. It takes time, so get after it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-ready/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
Want a kickyourbutt challenge?
Do what I do.
I know it works.
This is exactly what I do.
And, you can upgrade for a whopping $7 and I'll send you a Customizer you can use to create the workouts for the next 10 weeks...
... all you have to do is enter how much you can ride and how many pushups you can do, the Customizer will do the rest.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-ready/products/raceday-ready™-10-week-challenge
---
163.3
7.5 hrs 80%
Body Water 60.3%
Pull Ups + Power PushUps + Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
IT'S BETTER TO KNOW HOW IT ENDS
Jun 12, 2022 TODD BROWN
MY BETTER HALF BUSTED ME. Perfectly angled on the couch, feet up, reclined, eyes half open...
... The Daufine drama unfolding.
Another bike race is on?
Uh, yeah.
And you're just gonna lie there and watch it?
There was a lot I could say at this point.
Such as the rule of if standing, sit
if sitting, lie down,
if lying, sleep.
I sure as shift wasn't gonna tell her I already knew who won!...
... though she probably suspected as much.
It's true.
While it's nice to be surprised and on the edge of our saddles...
... I prefer to know how it ends in advance.
Then, I can watch exactly what the winner did to get it done. For me, that is more interesting...
... because that's how I like to race.
If it's actually an A race, that rare beast that comes along once or twice a year, I've often visualized every single thing that's going to happen...
... from Monday of the week before until crossing the finish line.
I have found that makes all the difference, and the sooner I start that process the better.
It's why I created the RaceDay Calendar. That giant year-at-a-glance tool I use to plan the year's races, vacation, and work.
It's why I love the Reminder Wallet, printed with my A race goal.
It's how I developed the RaceDay Bag™.
Everything we do at PEDAL Industries is about supporting your vision for RaceDay.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-body-mind-soul™-10-week-challenge
It's why I'm sharing the RaceDay Ready Body, Mind, Soul Challenge™...
It's the general plan I've used and perfected over the years.
Are you ready for the challenge?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-body-mind-soul™-10-week-challenge
---
163.4
8.2 hrs 100%
Body Water 60.5%
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
THE SHORTCUTS CAN BE GOOD
Jun 11, 2022 TODD BROWN
HAVING PREVIOUSLY LAID OUT A GREAT XC COURSE, I was looking forward to ripping it up this morning. It took me just over 2:20 the first time in Zone 2...
... how much faster could I go unmuzzled today?
20 minutes faster. But, there's one small problem.
In my haste to get back early, I'd skipped downloading the route and exactly where to go and wound up deviating off course.
That's why I hate shortcuts...
... we don't realize the true win.
It doesn't matter if we cut the
- course
- gym time
- ride time
- maintenance
- sleep
- diet
- intervals
- ...
... cut any of it and we rob ourselves of ultimate victory. Either by not completing the goal, or missing the goal be not being completely ready.
Here's the good news, we can do it again...
... and do it right.
By repeating the course many times we'll get faster through as we memorize the course and experiment with set up, pacing, nutrition, etc.
Memorizing and experimenting are paramount for personal greatness...
... there's no shortcut for that.
Actually, there is one way to compress the time needed for mastery...
... hire a coach.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-body-mind-soul™-10-week-challenge
I'm not a coach.
But, I have prepared a pathway anybody can follow with my RaceDay Body, Mind Soul™ 10 Week Challenge...
... and for most, it's gonna be a helluva shortcut.
It's the general plan I've used and perfected over the years.
Are you ready for the challenge?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-body-mind-soul™-10-week-challenge
---
162.3
7.2 hrs 83%
Body Water 60.8%
0 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?
Jun 10, 2022 TODD BROWN
AFTER BOMBING A LONG, ROCKY HILLSIDE TRAIL ABOUT 18" WIDE we came to a stop. What a charge! I'd had so much fun...
... my friend was panting and pale.
That cliff was so steep!
I guess.
Did you see that jagged boulder?
Maybe.
What about that crazy cactus?
I think so.
Same trail, entirely different experience.
But why?
Simple.
Vision.
I'd focused on where I wanted to go, he'd focused on where he didn't want to go.
There's a lesson there.
I hope you see it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-ready/products/raceday-ready-checklists
Did you see the 3 checklists I made for you?
- The RaceDay Bag™ is a checklist with it's labeled pockets.
- The RaceDay Bike Checklist™ starts counting down a week or so out.
- The RaceDay Body, Mind Soul™ is my daily checklist.
You can download them here, for free:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-ready/products/raceday-ready-checklists
---
162
7.5 hrs 80%
Body Water 60.4%
0 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
WHEN TO WAKE UP, PROFESSIONAL ADVICE
Jun 09, 2022 TODD BROWN
A FEW YEARS AGO, I was having lunch with the great Joe Friel. I'd paid to fly him out and have him speak to a select group...
... and I learned a lot.
Probably more than anyone, because I had him to myself.
How much sleep should we get Joe?
As much as you need.
How much do I need?
Well, let me make it simple for ya.
Ok.
I don't use an alarm clock, I get up when I'm done sleeping.
Dang. Simple. Advice.
But, what about raceday? Then we do need to set an alarm, we do need to be up and going through our routine.
Here's how I do it:
- Saturday is my mock raceday.
- Friday I go through the motions of prepping bike and gear.
- Friday night I experiment with different foods.
- Saturday I wake up at the same time I'll be waking up on raceday.
- Test out what I'm planning to eat on raceday.
- Start riding when I plan to start riding on raceday.
The rest of the week, I'm mostly following Joe's advice.
If anything...
... we need an alarm for when to hit the hay.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-ready/products/raceday-ready-checklists
I have 3 checklists:
- The RaceDay Bag™ is a checklist with it's labeled pockets.
- The RaceDay Bike Checklist™ starts counting down a week or so out.
- The RaceDay Body, Mind Soul™ is my daily checklist.
You can download them here, for free:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-ready/products/raceday-ready-checklists
---
160.8
7 hrs 78%
Body Water 60.3%
0 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
PLEASE DON'T LET THIS BE YOU.
Jun 08, 2022 TODD BROWN
WE'VE ALL DONE IT. Maybe not you smartypants. But, we have been mid-ride, or worse mid-race...
... and shift happens (or doesn't).
Unbelievably, I received 2 shocking race reports in the last 24 hours...
... freakin' rookies didn't charge their batteries.
One of them was racing Unbound and had miles and miles to go.
I can't let this happen to you.
So, here's my solution.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-checklists
A checklist for your Bike...
... yeah, you're gonna love it.
Heck, I got so inspired I created one for your Body too!
It's free...
... for now.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-checklists
---
162.2
5.75 hrs 78%
Body Water 60.4%
0 Pull Ups + 40 Power PushUps + 40 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE WHITE JERSEY IS A BOOBY PRIZE??
Jun 07, 2022 TODD BROWN
AFTER FURTHER THOUGHT, maybe I'm not such a fan of the White Jersey awarded to the best young rider. I suspect it represents the old heirachy...
... and the kids have figured it out.
Tired of banging on the door when they saw there power numbers were just as good as the established pros, they have been bursting through for a few years now...
... making road racing much more exciting.
Much, much, more.
Retrospectively, it looks like the White Jersey was given to placate the youngsters with talent...
... telling them to wait their turn.
They ain't having none of it.
Freakin' kids are awesome!
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
They are ready.
Are you?
- The beautiful PEDAL R kit, made from imported Italian fabrics. So good you'll thank me after the first ride.
- A customized for you 10-week RaceDay Ready Plan
- 20% savings on everything we make and sell.
- Early access to our famous and challenging rides.
- Entry into our RaceDay Ready Strava Club where you can ask Todd anything.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
---
162.2
7.25 hrs 85%
Body Water 60.6%
0 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
BETTER TO WON AND LOST THAT NOT WON AT ALL
Jun 06, 2022 TODD BROWN
I COULDN'T BELIEVE MY EYES. There he was front and center on the VeloNews home page. Young Kevin, who used to ride with us. Except he's a man now, pulling a paycheck...
... racing bikes in Europe.
He's extremely disappointed because he lost today.
And, I love that.
He was in the winning break at the Dauphine, narrowly missing the victory...
... which is gonna sting for a bit.
But, he won...
- by being in the winning break
- by taking the White jersey
- by racing pro in Europe
He lost a chance to win his first pro race, but it's just a matter of time because...
... he's put himself in a position to win.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
You can't win if you you're not in a winning position.
- The beautiful PEDAL R kit, made from imported Italian fabrics. So good you'll thank me after the first ride.
- A customized for you 10-week RaceDay Ready Plan
- 20% savings on everything we make and sell.
- Early access to our famous and challenging rides.
- Entry into our RaceDay Ready Strava Club where you can ask Todd anything.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
---
162
7.5 hrs 87%
Body Water 60.4%
0 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE SCIENCE BEHIND CHEAT DAYS
Jun 05, 2022 TODD BROWN
IN HIS BREAKTHROUGH WORK, The Four Hour Body, the great Tim Ferriss reveals his support for the idea of Cheat Days...
... where you ditch the regimen.
I loved it.
It backed up everything I loved about my Sunday rituals. No bike, lots of rest and lots of treats...
... a time to return from the mountain, so to speak.
While it is nice to mow down a pint of ice cream or half a pie, I have also found there are two terrible consequences:
- Any cravings I may have conquered the preceding 6 days are reactivated, not satiated. Almost worse than before.
- The 6 days of progress are followed not by 1 day of regression, but 3-4 days to get things back to where they were.
Cheat days are awesome, if you're into continuing to struggle with cravings and stunting your progress...
... otherwise you're just cheating yourself.
BTW, you can eat whatever you want on a big ride... the pic above is 4 hours and 6000' in.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
Need someone to hold you accountable?
A plan?
- The beautiful PEDAL R kit, made from imported Italian fabrics. So good you'll thank me after the first ride.
- A customized for you 10-week RaceDay Ready Plan
- 20% savings on everything we make and sell.
- Early access to our famous and challenging rides.
- Entry into our RaceDay Ready Strava Club where you can ask Todd anything.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
---
161.8
7 hrs 78%
Body Water 60.4%
0 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
40 minutes reading + Journaling
HOW GOOD IS YOUR WHEELSUCKERY?
Jun 04, 2022 TODD BROWN
AT SOME POINT ON TODAY'S RIDE things got goofy. It was the final 20 minute leg pulleroffer. Quads barking, kids hangry...
... not much left.
I like this ride for it's jumpiness.
But, it can wear even the fittest timber down to swirling sawdust.
Pulls get skipped, wheelsuckery abounds, tempertrantrumitis flares...
... which always cracks me up.
But, apparently it isn't funny to the great gravel gawds of Unbound who are actually on record that sitting on ain't part of the gravel racing ethos...
... because only the strongest should win.
Really?
Since when are tactics not part of racing?
Tactics can be a strength.
A superpower.
On a training ride, unhitching the unwilling should be practiced mercilessly...
... because in a race, it's gotta be done.
Conversely, training rides are a perfect place to master latching to faster riders and conserving till you're fingers are bleeding...
... because in a race, it might have to be done.
Which brings me back to today's comic relief...
... don't get mad, get off the front.
That eventually transpired today.
Touché.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
Being not the most talented, I've had to learn to be crafty...
... which is what I'm teaching this cat.
- The beautiful PEDAL R kit, made from imported Italian fabrics. So good you'll thank me after the first ride.
- A customized for you 10-week RaceDay Ready Plan
- 20% savings on everything we make and sell.
- Early access to our famous and challenging rides.
- Entry into our RaceDay Ready Strava Club where you can ask Todd anything.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
---
160.7
5.5 hrs 52% (yes I suffered because of this)
Body Water 60.4%
0 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
NO TRAINING, REQUIRED
Jun 03, 2022 TODD BROWN
I'M GONNA MAKE IT REAL SIMPLE FOR YA. You're doing too much. Probably way too much...
... let's fix that.
Here's a filter you can use:
If it ain't Hellyeah!, it's no.
For examples...
Would you like some cake?
No.
Would you like to stay out late partying?
No.
Would you like to go for a killer ride tomorrow?
Hellyeah!
What merits a Hellyeah! depends on who you want to be and what you want to accomplish.
What merits a No is everything else.
It's simple.
Not easy.
Train it.
No...
... and it'll be a big Hellyeah! on RaceDay!
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
Like Leif.
He's training for a big Hellyeah! at Leadville this summer. Watch the video.
- The beautiful PEDAL R kit, made from imported Italian fabrics. So good you'll thank me after the first ride.
- A customized for you 10-week RaceDay Ready Plan
- 20% savings on everything we make and sell.
- Early access to our famous and challenging rides.
- Entry into our RaceDay Ready Strava Club where you can ask Todd anything.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
---
161
7.5 hrs
Body Water 60.4%
0 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
PLANNING 101
Jun 02, 2022 TODD BROWN
SOMEONE ACTUALLY ASKED ME HOW TO PREPARE FOR A RACE. That happens all the time, and I am generally free with the advice. Not this time...
... the race is next weekend!!!
What should I do to prepare for Giro Di San Diego next weekend, 100 miles 8000'?
Pray.
I mean, what can you do 10 days out?
Not much.
If it's an A race, your prep should have begun months ago and you'll be tapering the next 10 days.
If it's a B, you'll probably just train through it on your way to the A race.
Things you should do:
- Get a RaceDay Calendar™ and commit!
- Get my 10 week RaceDay Ready plan (give me 10 weeks and I'll get you ready)
- Get your bike prepped, I have a checklist for you.
- Get your travel plan in place, even if it's a short drive, figured out
In other words, get your shift together...
... you paid good money to line up, get your money's worth!
Don't believe me? Watch this.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
Want a sample of the program Leif is on?
Just get this kit.
- The beautiful PEDAL R kit, made from imported Italian fabrics. So good you'll thank me after the first ride.
- A customized for you 10-week RaceDay Ready Plan
- 20% savings on everything we make and sell.
- Early access to our famous and challenging rides.
- Entry into our RaceDay Ready Strava Club where you can ask Todd anything.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
---
161
7 hrs
Body Water 61%
0 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
HOT IN HERRE
Jun 02, 2022 TODD BROWN
TWENTY DAYS TILL THE SUMMER SOLSTICE, and it's already starting to heat up around here. Should you be lucky enough to ride midday in the sweletering goodness...
... it's like a twofer.
- You are riding while the rest of us are grinding
- Good stuff happens in the heat.
Whether or not you're riding in the heat of the day to try and acclimate before some hideously hot event, here's the science:
- Blood plasma will increase. More plasma means better cooling, better nutrient distribution, protection against dehydration.
- Resting heart temp will be lower.
- You'll sweat earlier and more vs waiting until you're too hot which keeps you cooler.
- Left ventricle of heart strengthens, pumping more blood faster.
- Cellular adaptation, on the individual level to better withstand heat stress.
Yeah, this is what I tell myself when I'm caught out in the furnace...
... alone.
It's my self talk ain't sciency, it's like this:
All those fools in the air conditioned enclaves...
... and I am working!
HOW TO STAY FOREVER YOUNG
May 31, 2022 TODD BROWN
SOME OF YOU HAVE FIGURED OUT WHERE THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH IS, not just healthy and badassly on the bike. And, it warms my heart almost daily...
... to see your vitality.
If you haven't figured it out yet, it's right there hiding in the picture above.
See all those racers sprinting for the line?
They're kids.
In Europe.
And, that young man on the far left is from around these parts. His dad has ridden with him and coached him since he was a wheel high. His high school put together a NICA MTB team. Then he was recruited to race with Roy's LUX development team...
... yep, all kinds of oldsters have been around Luke's development.
If there is one piece of advice I can give you who are searching for the fountain of youth...
... it's with the youth.
Get around them.
Sponsor them.
Mentor them.
The blessings are undeniable in the countenances of those who donate their time and resources to the youth...
... they are younger and more vital than their peers.
It's undeniable.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lux
We donate bags to all the kids on the team.
If you'd like to support the team, use PROMO code: TEAMLUX
You'll save 10% and the team will earn 10%.
Or, if you'd like to donate directly or become sponsor: luxcycling@gmail.com
Stay young my friends.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lux
---
160.9
7.2 hrs 97%
Body Water 60%
0 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
TOP 2 HIDDEN BENEFITS OF ZONE 2
May 30, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE IS A HUGE BUZZ ON POLARIZED TRAINING, as there should because it's backed up by science. What isn't backed up by science...
... is hidden.
We need to be intentional about the obvious hidden benefits.
First, do your Zone 2 with your friends. Because it's a conversational pace, having a friend(s) a long will allow you to connect in ways we used to before the invasion of our digital gods.
Second, because we spend (should spend!) so much time in Zone 2 it can get monotonous unless we spice it up with efficiency challenges like:
- cornering
- braking
- jumping
- drafting
- eating
- drinking
- form
- pedal stroke
- aerodynamics
- etc
These are cornerstones of superior athletic accomplishments...
... camaraderie and efficiency.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-wallets0
That's where the money is.
Speaking of money, there is nothing better to being on a ride or simply remember who cool this sport is than this nifty wallet made from innertube.
Check it out: https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-wallets
---
162.2
6.2 hrs
Body Water 61.1%
0 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
WHAT ABOUT JAI?
May 29, 2022 TODD BROWN
JAI HINDLEY WON THE GIRO TODAY. Nobody was watching him the first week, some watched him the second week...
... what a scene this week!
How could a race 3 weeks long
come down to the last 3 miles
with 3 seconds between
the top contenders?
If you missed the whole thing, go back and watch the final big climb on Saturday. There is no better drama than months of prep and weeks of racing come down to this...
... one man was significantly better than the rest.
Man?
Honestly, looks like a boy.
Better than rest?
You'd never know it looking at him, there's sense of ego or I'm better than you, he looks like a kid who's just having a good time.
It's been a long, long time since I've seen such amateur joy at the pro level...
... maybe the first time.
Maybe that's what happens when nobody believes you've got it in you?
Maybe it's a result of enjoying the experience vs stressing to perform?
Maybe Jai knew what no one else did...
... he was ready to have the ride of his life?
Are you?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
Well, be sure to change in style before and after your grand day.
These changing ponchos are awesome for changing before and after, and wiping down your body and bike after.
Use promo code: PONCHO
to save 20%.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos
---
162.9
8.25 hrs
Body Water 61.1%
0 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
IF IT AIN'T FIXED, BREAK IT
May 28, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE ENDLESS FASCINATION THAT IS PERSONAL PERFORMANCE has led me in a new direction. Today was evidence it's working. I've previously dabbled and tinkered, but...
... I had to break the molds to get the results.
Yes, plural.
Molds I've broken this year.
Suspension. I've pretty much shied from messing with suspension over the years. This year, I had the suspension refreshed and revalaved for my specific weight. Then I took the time to test it and dial it in the past few weeks, adjusting sag and rebound well outside of the recommended factory settings...
... I've never had a more dialed in rig.
Weight training. Like most sheeple, I commenced lifting weights each "offseason", quickly blowing it off. This year I committed to lifting every single day...
... I've never felt stronger.
Polarized training. About a year ago, I started experitmenting with polarized training. I had good success, accomplishing last summer's major objective: Silver Corral at Leadville for '22. This year, fulling embracing the concept...
... I've never felt fresher.
There are more broken molds laying around here, stay tuned.
In the meantime, what was so successful about today's ride?
A darn respectable time on our local big climb, all in low zone 3 and after just over 2 hours and 3000' of climbing getting over there. Then I spun around and ripped the downhill which was majorly socked in and difficult to see, getting a PR on the entire up/down segment... look at that fork for reference.
I also stuck to my nutrition plan and consumed: 6 bottles of doubleserving Skratch, 3 Paleo bars, 1 Clif bar, 1 Mexican Coke, a portion of Zack's Stinger waffle. And I felt great all day.
Oh, and a slewful of PRs on a number of DH sections. That is really good news, because it's taken me a while to get comfortable on the MTB after so much gravel riding.
Doing the math: I climbed as much today, 12,000' as the looming upcoming race. I did it on a 20 mile shorter course, in 6:48. That leaves me 1:12 to cover that 20 flat miles, which would be about 17mph...
... it's gonna be really, really close to my 8 hr goal.
Might have to find a few more molds to break.
If y'all are looking to break some molds of yer own, there's nothun bettah than a giant RaceDay Calendar to motivate ya.
It takes gigongous cajones to take a Sharpie and write yer goals so everyone can see.
One place to see the entire year's events.
- Weeks are set up Monday- Sunday, because the weekends matter to us.
- Large area on top for top annual objectives
- Weekends and Holidays are highlighted as well as the time changes
- Plenty of space at the to bottom for detailing your vision for the year.
How HUGE?
27.5" Wide X 48" Tall.
What's it made out of?
We are using the same durable fabric we use in our RaceDay Bags™. This will create an enduring record of what you planned and accomplished each year.
Best racing investment you'll make all year.
---
162
6 hrs
Body Water 59.9%
0 Pull Ups +0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
TRUING OUR WHEELS
May 27, 2022 TODD BROWN
STRAIGHT AND NARROW IS THE WAY which leads to life. That line is preceded by Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction. And is followed by...
... few there be that find it.
What does that have to do with racing, Diesel?
What doesn't have to do with racing?
I ain't here to be preached at.
I ain't here to preach.
Why the scripture, then?
Racing isn't the end, it's part of being a well-rounded superstar.
The race is to be a well-rounded. social, mental, physical, and spiritual. Physical is just one thing we are after. By focusing equally on all four of these components...
... we will be true.
True wheels are faster, stronger, essential to ripping.
Be a ripper.
Be true.
---
Sometimes I'm overwhelmed by the goodness in our community. Those of you who take time to say hi and give an encouraging word to me and to the rest of us really do make a difference...
... that's the social side of well-rounded.
Here's some more goodness from friend Amber, Olympian and 2X World Champion...
https://nebenpx4.com/product/when-shmack-happens/
I just finished it, and gotta say I gotta little tearyeyed when it was over. We are all facing hidden battles all the time, this is a story of perseverance and patience. Truly inspiring.
Get the book here: https://nebenpx4.com/product/when-shmack-happens/
She'll wearing our superlight race gloves and socks at Unbound next weekend... along with a gorgeous kit we made for her.
They come in a rainbow of colors...
... nothing better than matching gloves and socks.
And, there's an unbelievable offer, just click the link.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
161
7 hrs - 78%
Body Water 59.9%
0 Pull Ups +10 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
ON THE WEIGH
May 26, 2022 TODD BROWN
SINCE IT'S ALL A NUMBERS GAME, it make sense to figure out what the numbers are. There are power to weight numbers, hours, miles, laps...
... and then there's water.
Not just how much we're drinking per hour, but how much is in our body.
I was reminded of this by Dr. V, our local health wizard.
You should post your water numbers on the blog.
What are those?
The percent of your body that's water.
How would I know that?
Get a proper scale.
Ok.
I'm usually X% and always jealous of you know who, he consistently checks in at 66%.
Ordered it.
So, what have I learned in the past week or so of weighing?
I have a lot of improvements to be made. My hydration could be better by 8-10%. My body fat registers at the highest end for athletes.
Seeing the actual numbers takes the guesswork out and gives us something we can measure...
... what gets measured gets managed.
Saturday I'll be doing an epic training ride. Can't wait to compare the morning weigh in to the post ride weigh in. I'm going to be super diligent on my 1 bottle/hour rule, more if the heat is excessive.
I can manage some improvement.
Can you?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light
Measuring sheds light on our situation, so might as well blow out these lights.
There are a few Medium Front lights and a few more Small Rear lights. They provide nearly 360• of visibility, and they're super light weight.
This promo code will expire on Saturday, or when we run out of the lights.
Code is MEASURE
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light
---
160
7.27 hrs (still not sure about this app)
Body Water 59.7%
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!
May 25, 2022 TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE SECRETS TO GOING FAST DOWNHILL is not thinking about it. Huh? Turning my focus to MTB racing...
... I've had to think about this.
The fastest among us aren't thinking,
analyzing,
fretting.
But, how do we get in the zone?
We have to think about it, for a bit.
In my case, after months and miles of graveling on the gravel bike I retarded my Road and MTB descending skills.
For example, on gravel bike I ride a lot of difficult trails en route to gravel, everything is slower.
No suspension + skinny tires + high pressure = slow.
Slow because it's so much rougher. Every rock and root is magnified...
... the largest effect has been on my vision.
I'm not looking far enough ahead when on the fast and fierce MTB bike which smoothes everything out. Consequently, I'm having way to many Oh $#!2! moments.
That thought solidified - look as far ahead as possible - takes effort. It's breaking a bad habit.
Once a bad habit is broken, we no longer think about it.
We are in the zone.
Going fast(er).
Confidently.
There are a slew of other things to think about when ripping off road. This is a great place to start: https://youtu.be/8y6ocZHpLoE.
Think about it.
Work on it.
Rip it...
... without even thinking about it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Ever heard the term...
... Grip it and rip it!
If I wasn't constantly being stopped by the locals wearing these gloves and socks, I wouldn't be so passionate about them.
They come in a rainbow of colors...
... nothing better than matching gloves and socks.
And, there's an unbelievable offer, just click the link.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
161.2
6.39 hrs (still not sure about this app)
Body Water 60%
0 Pull Ups +3 0 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
WHEN IT ALL COMES TOGETHER
May 24, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE'S JUST NOTHING QUITE AS SATISFYING AS WHEN IT ALL COMES TOGETHER. Probably because it's so rare...
... it's Pavlovian.
Consequently, we keep coming back to the races.
Like tonight.
It all clicked for me.
I remembered the race was only 2 laps, lots of good sleep prior (contrary to what the app is saying), bike set up was spot on, work was extremely smooth and productive, arrived plenty early...
.... had a really good race.
It's kind of a numbers game:
- 7-8 hrs of sleep
- 161.3 lbs - down 3 from last week
- Tire pressure lower - 19 rear, 17 front
- Suspension, maxed out my sag to 30% and slowed the rebound way down
- lots of sales always energizes me
- arrived 2 hours early
- 1 application of PR Lotion
- 1 water bottle, 2 scoops of Skratch
- leisurely 40 minutes recon of lap
- 3 trips to the bathroom
- 1 honey stinger gel 10 minutes before start
- start line with 4 minutes to spare
- 1st into the very early off camber 170˚ loose and dusty turn
- 1st onto the hill
- 1st onto long single track descent
- 1st into the melee merge with the beginners/intermediates
- Est Power Ave 231, Max 1035
- Ave Speed 14, Max 33.5
- Ave HR 171, Max 179
- 11 miles
- 2 laps
- 1st
The good news is no one racer has yet to dominate. It's been a jumble every week...
... which means lots of fun ahead.
The bad news...
... I'm not sure where I can improve.
Thank Dog for Pavlov.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
Speaking of Pavlov, a good marketer (like me) knows it's good when things sell out, and we're gonna sell out of the special offer...
... free personalization.
The bags are never on sale, but how about this...
... use promo code ADDNAME and we'll personalize your bag for free.
** Code must be used by 5/31, available to the first 50 (11 left) bags only ***
This is a special link to a hidden collection of our stock designs with the option for personalization.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
---
161.3
7.23 hrs (still not sure about this app)
0 Pull Ups +20 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
THE SHORTEST POSSIBLE RACE
May 23, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE SHORTEST RACE POSSIBLE turns out to be the best race possible. While all the money is behind the Tour de France, Unbound, Leadville, nobody starts there...
... they start small.
A Strava segment, a city limit sign, a group ride, a local weekday race. This is wherewe are born...
... and grow from there.
Social bonds are formed, knowledge is gained, skills improve, talents are discovered...
... focus leads to fascination.
George reminded me of this on Saturday's group ride.
Todd, I feel faster than ever.
You do?
Yes, I'm not, of course, because I'm way past my prime.
Tell me more.
I feel more confident, closer than ever to my potential.
That's wonderful George!
The race to be great is a long one, a personal one, the best one...
... it starts with the shortest race possible.
It's up to us to continually encourage our friends, and Yes! our competitors, to join the endless fascination to be our best. They might be hesitant, that's where we remind them...
... if you want to know something, you have to do something.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
Just like if you want to know the joy of giving the best gift ever, with the recipients name printed on the bag...
The bags are never on sale, but how about this...
... use promo code ADDNAME and we'll personalize your bag for free.
** Code must be used by 5/31, available to the first 50 (11 left) bags only ***
This is a special link to a hidden collection of our stock designs with the option for personalization.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
---
163.8
6.8 hrs (still not sure about this app)
0 Pull Ups +20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
65 minutes reading + Journaling
LET THIS SINK IN
May 22, 2022 TODD BROWN
EVERYTHING MATTERS WHEN YOU'RE LOOKING FOR MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE. Every little thing. It all adds up...
... to combine for a great day.
Here's one you might never have considered.
For years, I would head out to the garage the night before the ride and make sure everything was ready to go. That's a good practice...
... but, it could have been a little bit better.
How?
Well, the garage at night is perpetually cold. Which means the chain is cold, as well as the chain lube. Which means, when you apply the lube to the chain it doesn't penetrate as well as it could if it was warmed up a bit.
But, who wants to take a blow dryer to their chain and risk damaging any carbon parts?
The solution:
- Let the lube and the chain warm up in the afternoon sun.
- Clean the chain and the pulleys
- Lube it with the good stuff.
- Work it in.
- Let sit.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
These are the little secrets we come up with prepping for race day...
... you're not keeping this secret are you?
The fact that you can get one of these in stock designs personalized, for free.
The bags are never on sale, but how about this...
... use promo code ADDNAME and we'll personalize your bag for free.
** Code must be used by 5/31, available to the first 50 (18 left) bags only ***
This is a special link to a hidden collection of our stock designs with the option for personalization.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
---
163.8
7.7 hrs (still not sure about this app)
0 Pull Ups +0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
DAY RIPPER
May 21, 2022 TODD BROWN
THE LOW CLOUDS EVENTUALLY BROKE FORTH. Not rain, but not fog. Somewhere in between. Enough to dirty the lens, not enough to soak the socks...
... no better weather for ripping!
Woke up groggy, took forever to get out the door, and really didn't have much of a plan other than trying to find the local speedsters on the CV ride. Of course, right about the time I wanted to catch them I really had to pee, tucked in behind some bushes...
... I could hear the gaggle of geese freewheeling by.
Perfect.
Chasing, which is what I was hoping for.
I wanted to be pushed hard today. It's the last week of a 3-week build, and I wanted to go really deep.
Mission accomplished, highest fitness I've ever seen on Strava.
Things are percolating right along for a summer of racing.
Part of seeing that peak fitness has been my commitment to polarized training. A lot of zone 2, plus 2 hard days a week. The 2 hard days can be back to back or bookend the zone 2 work, it doesn't seem to matter. All that matters is that I don't go hard more than 2x a week. I'm hiding this in a long paragraph so the skimmers don't see it. It's just for you.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
This might be for you, too...
... or someone you know.
The bags are never on sale, but how about this...
... use promo code ADDNAME and we'll personalize your bag for free.
** Code must be used by 5/31, available to the first 50 (25 left) bags only ***
This is a special link to a hidden collection of our stock designs with the option for personalization.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
---
163.8
6.37 hrs (still not sure about this app)
0 Pull Ups +0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
SMALL DISCIPLINE
May 20, 2022 TODD BROWN
DINNER AT 8 they yelled as they drove by. These weren't strangers, they know me well and they know i'm really focused on 1 goal this summer...
... I could feel a hangriness comin' on.
It's just a small thing, pushing back the dinner hour by an hour.
But, I'd been doing small things all day.
- Small chainring for 90 minutes
- Small weight sessions for breaks.
- Small portions for breakfast and lunch.
I could feel a greatbighuge step backwards coming on.
At 6pm, they looked at me and said Dad, you look like you need a few Brookside DarkChocolate Acai and Blueberry flavors...
... not even the berries, just the favors!
Ok, just a few.
They're good aren't they?
Kinda.
Want a few more?
Sure.
Feeling better?
No, hand me the bag!
Okay, small lie there.
But, you get the idea small things can give us big results when applied consistently...
... on the scale, too, if we don't demonstrate some small restraint.
Small note on my personal life: The daughter and soninlaw are visiting for a month and want to make sure y'all know how strong and smart and fit they are.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
Which is a nice lead in to Father's Day coming up, how many of you have been dropping hints? How many of you have a father that would love this lifechanging bag?
The bags are never on sale, but how about this...
... use promo code ADDNAME and we'll personalize your bag for free.
** Code must be used by 5/31, available to the first 50 bags only ***
This is a special link to a hidden collection of our stock designs with the option for personalization.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
---
162.4
6.36 hrs (I don't know about this app, pretty sure it was closer to 7.5)
0 Pull Ups +20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
80 minutes reading + Journaling
3 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO BE FASTER
May 19, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE ARE A LOT THINGS YOU CAN DO TO BE FASTER ON RACEDAY. Some of them are obvious...
... these aren't.
- Clear your calendar. You gotta work, we all do. If it's an afternoon midweeker, clear the afternoon - start earlier, work longer the next day, etc. If it's on a weekend, clear out Friday afternoon. The emotional energy of work needs to be saved for the race.
- Sleep dope. Get an exceptional night of sleep the night before the night before and a really good night of sleep the night before.
- Eat hearty. Afternoon midweekers need a big late lunch. Epic weekenders require a ton of food the day before. You aren't a wrestler or boxer, you don't need to cut weight the day before. Load up.
- Bonus... this ties in with #1, get there early. Real early. Cut the stress out of rushing, waiting at registration, hustling to warm up etc... this should be a zenlike moment, a warrior slowly preparing for battle.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
Of course, it all starts with the RaceDay Bag™...
... because you can't race proper if you aren't geared proper.
With Father's Day coming up, how many of you have been dropping hints? How many of you have a father that would love this lifechanging bag?
The bags are never on sale, but how about this...
... use promo code ADDNAME and we'll personalize your bag for free.
** Code must be used by 5/31, available to the first 50 bags only ***
This is a special link to a hidden collection of our stock designs with the option for personalization.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags
---
161.8
7.2 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
WHAT IS YOUR STANDARD?
May 18, 2022 TODD BROWN
IN MY CULTURE we talk about having high standards all the time. Even judging each other based on our choice to keep the standards high...
... or let 'em drift low.
The benefit of high standards, of course, is everything is much easier.
I was reminded of this on my ride today when I saw the above sign.
No horses
No rollerblades
No e-bikes
No kooks
Enjoy
The builders of this brandnewsupersecret singletrack definitely have some standards they expect to be honored.
In this light, standards are a lot like commandments. They can be used as guideposts and ways to measure our commitment and progress.
For example, if our standard is to satisfy hunger a Big Mac and fries will do. If our standard is to eat like world-class athletes we would look down on that choice and...
... opt for something inline with our standards.
Eating like an Olympian makes going fast on a bicycle a lot easier than eating like Michael Moore.
During the final miles of the ride, the sun was setting and a father and son sped by on their e-bikes. The dad yelled...
... Sorry, I know we're cheating.
I smiled, gave him a thumbs up.
We have different standards, that's all.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/changing-ponchos
Some people have modesty as a standard, and you know what they say...
... modest is hottest!
The changing poncho promo code is active again, it's PONCHO.
It'll expire Friday at midnight, save you 20%.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/changing-ponchos
---
162.9
5.8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
May 17, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE WE WERE, blitzing the same course as last week. Really getting after it, I was right behind two world champions, Brian Lopes (MTB DH) and Jeff Ward (Supercross)...
... little ol' me hanging on tight.
Then, I blew 3/4s of the way up the only climb.
Not blowblow, but uncoupled form the dynamic duo.
All I could do was watch them bridge up to the younger group of Experts that started infront of us.
That was my plan!
Well, that didn't work.
What did work was
- taking 50 seconds off last week's time,
- arriving early for a nice leisurely warmup,
- racing with no computer (tracking it on the Apple watch)
- feeling good after Saturday's 100 miles heat stroking adventure
- pounding a bottle of Amp Recovery Mix
- the bike was flawless
- saying hi to so many friends I haven't seen since last season
- delivering the canopy top to my friends at Linked Cycling (gotta do some work out there),
- setting my canopy between La Habra Cyclery (who gives RaceDay Bags™ to their VIP customers)
- and Crank Bros (who's pedals and wheels I love)
What can I do to improve next week?
- My diet was awful over the weekend, I can improve that and come in a bit lighter
- Better sleep Monday night, it was good not great.
- Positioning, I gave up spots too easy and had to close gaps the first half of the first lap... gotta be meaner, LOL
- run the Wahoo mounted, I generally like to race these short races on feel but giving up 3rd place to Robb hurt - kudos to him for brilliantly riding his 2nd lap faster than his first
- The website had a pretty major meltdown today and was stressing me out all afternoon - still is - that'll be fixed by then.
I call this Review and Repeat, which is covered in the 5th chapter of my book.
Will, a race promoter back East, purchased 3 books Sunday and shipped them to 3 different people.
That makes me happy.
Have you read it?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
---
164.9
7.2 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
SATISFACTION GAURANTEED.
May 16, 2022 TODD BROWN
THERE IS SOMETHING ASTONISHINGLY SATISFYING IN MY GARAGE. A nice rack, some decent tools...
... and I bike to work on.
It doesn't matter what level of mechanicry you have reached.
If you can fix, do it yourself.
If you have a hunch, see it through.
If you can kinda handle it, attempt it for sure.
It doesn't take much in terms of tools to be able to do the basics:
- Change a tire
- Add sealant
- Fix a flat
- Adjust your brakes
- Tighten your headset
- etc
Just tonight I noticed a slight wobble in my front disc after giving the wheel a spin. Zing, zing, zing as it spun around.
I used to have a really cool tool for bending a disc back into shape, but I accidentally sold it.
What to do...
What could I use to grab hold of it that didn't have sharp edges or grooves...
... a crescent wrench!
Just like that, I straightened it out.
The level of satisfaction is instantaneous...
... the level of confidence will last a life time.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Hang on to your goals this week, make 'em happen.
Use some gloves if it helps.
I like these.
Lots of colors to chose from, and...
This month is buy the gloves and socks, and the socks are automatically free at check out.
No code needed!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
166
8.4 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
2DAY'S MASTERCLASS
May 15, 2022 TODD BROWN
TWO OF THE LAST THREE DAYS OF THE GIRO showed a level of mastery few attain. There is no hack that we can employ...
... this takes years.
As noted by the great Sun Tzu...
... Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.
On Friday and on Sunday, the winner of the stage was distanced. Gapped. The announcers let us know things weren't looking good at all.
How very wrong they were.
Koen and Jai, rode right up to their very limit. Rather than going beyond a sustainable pace chasing the leaders they held strong to what they knew they could do...
... kept clawing their way back.
To victory!
There are 2 ways to acquire this skill:
- Intervals
- Racing
That's it.
Just riding around ain't gonna do it. Your limits won't be exposed.
And, as Uncle Harry says...
... A racer's gotta know their limitations.
Do you know yours?
You must know.
No guessing.
Imperative.
Most people don't, because it hurts reallyreally bad.
Most people race first, then seek to win.
It's Monday, what are you going to win this week?
- Ride
- Race
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Hydration
- Maintenance
- so many ways!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Hang on to your goals this week, make 'em happen.
Use some gloves if it helps.
I like these.
Lots of colors to chose from, and...
This month is buy the gloves and socks, and the socks are automatically free at check out.
No code needed!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
163.8
8.4 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps +0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
OF COURSE WE'LL DO IT AGAIN
May 14, 2022 TODD BROWN
WE FAILED TODAY. The plan was to ride from the surf in Dana Point to Summit of Big Bear. 135 mile, 16,000 of vert. That wasn't the problem...
... 99 degrees with a slight tailwind was devastating.
No relief.
I've wanted to do this ride for decades but never really figured out a good route, or which bike, or who'd be willing to attempt it.
Then, gravel became a thing and I'll just pause right here...
... the route is epic.
Lots of gravel, a stealth 40ish mile bike trail to skirt you mercifully through urban sprawl, hidden roads through gorgeous neighborhoods...
... and some singletrack to keep it real.
The beautiful bouquet of enthusiasm for adventure began to wilt around mile 70. Convection-style heat, blacktop...
... scorched and dry and dead land.
I made a major blunder in Loma Linda. We should have stopped for cool liquids but I was certain we were only a few miles from our rendezvous. It was infernal...
... so hot, I'd forgotten we rode to the start and added a good 6 miles.
These miles turned out to be all uphill.
Starting with a slick and dusty hiking trail and connecting to a supersmooth tarmac climb though custom custom dreamhomes...
... it should have been a wonderful climb.
We pulled in, ruined, to find the van waiting and willing.
Frozen Oreo icecreams, cokes, chips, got us resuscitated us. After a lengthy stop, we got after it just in time to hit another wonderful climb...
... at 2pm.
Couldn't be hotter.
I could tell we wouldn't all make it. There was no point in one soldering on for hours.
We made the call.
Surfergirl performed a perfect rescue, showering us with icecold treats. We began the long journey back home.
You'd thing we'd be quiet.
Ashamed.
Not our style, and our ladies know us oh so well, as evidenced by this message
Why do it again?
- It's an absolutely incredible route
- Insane Zone 2 training, ave HR 129
- It's on the Calendar..
... therefore, it must be completed.
We're targeting late Fall, to avoid the insane heat that scorches the I.E
Sunrises at 7, and sets at 6.
We'll roll at 5 with lights to assist.
We have all the stops figured out, it will be supported.
Yeah, we've thought it through.
Here's what we were able to accomplish: https://www.strava.com/activities/7143784639
How about you?
Are you gonna make it to the most grand challenge of the year?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
You'll need to put it on your calendar.
Did you know we can make these with your team graphics and pre-populate with your team's A events?
Or, just get this one shipped right away.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
164
4.39 hrs (just too dang excited)
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps +0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling
COWBOY STRONG
May 13, 2022 TODD BROWN
HAVE YOU EVER SHAKEN A COWBOY'S HAND? I'm not talking about one of them weekend line dancers, I'm talking an honest to gosh working cowboy. Like my cousin...
... it's like shaking hands with a telephone pole.
They are hard, strong and immovable.
It can be intimidating for most of us, because we instantly realize we are so pathetically weak.
But, real cowboys, for the most part, are skinny and lean...
... and they don't go to the gym.
I was reminded of this by my friend Jim, who was originally Don's friend Jim Fromthegym. He was complaining about gaining weight since he started lifting weights.
How do the cowboys do it?
Strong, yet sinewy.
They are constantly lifting and working physically throughout the day, which is what I've been preaching...
... to my apparently deaf choir.
Yes, lift weights...
... but, lift like a cowboy vs a musclebeachboy.
How?
Simple.
Heavy weights.
Low reps.
Daily...
... by daily, I mean throughout the day.
Get up, do a set.
Get some work down, do a set.
Don't drive to the gym.
Don't get sweaty.
Don't pump up.
Just be cowboy strong.
Which reminds me of how to handle your bike like a cowboy, maybe I'll share that some other day.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
The point is to be RaceDay Ready™.
Which is what the R stands for.
This PEDALindustries R kit comes with magical properties:
- 20% Savings on everything all the time
- Access to the RaceDay Ready™ Strava Group where you can ask me anything.
- Plus, the beta version of my RaceDay Ready™ 10 Week Program
- and more.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022
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164.2
8.2 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps +5 Heavy Squats
25 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
WHAT GETS MEASURED
May 12, 2022 TODD BROWN
AFTER THE RACE TUESDAY EVE, I commented to Bob that I think having a remarkable night of sleep was the magic trick I needed. He whipped out his phone...
... it turns out I've been lying to ya, for years.
Not on purpose, pure ignorance mixed with a little hope that I was doing it right. This convo cleared that up.
I've been measuring my sleep on my watch.
I got one of those.
With this app, AutoSleep.
I'll get it.
Well, I got it.
Measured the last two nights. It's ugly. Truly.
Currently I have 27% of Sleep Debt. That's because I slept terrible Tuesday, 5:10. And, rotten Wednesday, 6:25.
In my head, I was guessing I wound up in bed at 1130 and got up at 6. But, the app is counting sleeping not lying.
That's the bad news.
The good news is we all know what gets measured gets managed.
That's why we upload to Starva, why I weigh myself daily, report in how much reading and writing and recovery.
Tracking our stats ultimately leads us to tracking down and stomping our competition, PRs, etc...
... if you're into that.
I am.
There are lots of ways to track sleep. I'm using Apple Watch and app, there's Oura ring, Whoop.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-wallets
The app treats sleep like a bank account. I like that.
Do you like this?
It's the perfect size whether you're out for an all day ride, or just want something sleek and light to slip into your pocket.
There are 2 slots for cards and cash, one shows the top of cards, the other is deeper.
Made in USA, from inner tube rubber.
Did I mention it's the perfect size?
Or, that we can make 'em with your team logo?
Such a great gift!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-wallets
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163.1
6.25 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps +10 Heavy Squats
25 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
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