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Todd’s Journal
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Get RaceDay Ready
WHAT I KNOW ABOUT GOAL SETTING
WRAPPING UP THE YEAR, is a lot like wrapping up Christmas presents. We have these memories and milestones...
... to look back on later.
Gifts to ourselves.
What if we knew what gifts we'd be wrapping up for ourselves next year?
Would we plan our 2026 calendar differently?
Change up our goals...
... if their accomplishment was a given?
Now that you've done that little thought experiment, I'll share this with you.
The biggest accomplishments in my past were never concerned with...
- little details
- strategies
- tactics
... only What.
From there it was just a matter of making it real.
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
510 Anti-Oxidant Score
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
180 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/84/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
HR TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
THERE'S NOTHING QUITE LIKE the joy of climbing with friends to a distant peak and poking through the clouds. Summiting is like having...
... the top of the world to ourselves.
All is calm.
Bombing down the mostly unfamiliar other side...
... not so calm.
Heaven forbid we'd let a gap open and get left behind.
Already on the edge of grip, I came into a sweeping lefthand turn...
... a negative radius, sloping downward.
I drifted all the way wide to the soft bulldozed berm.
Exiting, it was nothing but steep with ruts and rocks competing for my attention.
It wasn't looking good.
Somehow I managed to wiggle through the gauntlet.
My HR now sky high.
Only one thing to do, let out a huge...
... WOOOOHOOOOO!!!
Sheesh, my heart skipped a beat just reliving and writing this.
It.
Was.
Awesomeness.
Had I gone down,
I wouldn't have died.
But, it woulda been a bloody mess firshur.
Glad I kept my eyes open
and arms relaxed,
the tires held...
... just another reason to be grateful this time of year.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/96/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WHO KNEW WE WERE THAT BAD?
THE PROGRESS WE MAKE can be kind of embarrassing. We don't know it at the time. In fact, we're having so much fun those early pics and vids...
... can be kind of embarrassing.
There's hope.
Bad athletes,
can get good.
Good athletes,
can be great.
Great athletes...
... know the secret.
Keep doing it.
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/82/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
THE OTHER 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
A LOT OF US plan to do some superspecialsecret training when nobody is looking in the coming days. Some are going so far as to...
... do the outrageous.
A gift to ourselves.
Which reminds me of one my pals who each year would ride a century 12 days in a row.
That was his goto way to start the year with a bunch of base miles.
Of course, the family and friends all thought that was...
... akin to getting coal for Christmas.
Personally, my overarching diabolical (counter season or counter intuitive?) plan is to...
- play around on jumps and technical stuff
- catch up with friends
- have fun
... make the training count.
What are you planning for 12/25 thru 1/6
While you're thinking about that...
... I'm sharing this kit with you in the off chance you're looking so spoil yourself with something outrageously sexy...
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Or, 50% savings here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/84/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
IS IT TOO LATE TO GO PRO?
THE SALARIES of the tops pro seem fantastic. The lifestyle unbeatable. Who doesn't want to get...
... paid to train and travel the world?
Sign me up.
But...
... it's too late, you're too old, you lack talent, you don't have time, you're too young, your equipment sucks, your friends and family won't approve, you'll nevereverver freakin' make it...
... SILENCE!
Though we may not get paid,
our travel will be less exotic,
we can still focus on...
- a specified activity
- honing our craft
- doing our best
... it's never to late to be pro.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WE WON THE LOTTERY!
WE DON'T DREAM enough. At least most of us. When we do, and I'm not talkin' 'bout shut eye...
... we change our state.
Great things are suddenly possible.
I was reminded of this yesterday...
... my son was going to buy a lottery ticket.
He does this when it's over a billion.
I told him how much...
- it allows us to dream
- things we'd change
- do or never do
... I love and hate the lottery.
Name one thing you'd do?
I'd never get up to an alarm clock again?
Later, I reflected on my greatest day on the bike.
In 2022.
The insane Leadville goal of...
- a PR
- sub-8 hrs
- at age 60
... and how I did it.
The dream of sub-9 at sixty started years prior.
Always in the back of my mind.
But, there.
How it would feel to be in that kind of shape.
The closer the date got,
the more real it became.
Until I believed I could not only go sub-9,
but shatter my 6 previous efforts.
We can win our own lottery...
- crystal clear
- detailed
- belief
... if we'll just start dreaming.
===
166lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/91/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
IS IT THE SACRIFICE?
WHY DO SOME OF US stick with the endurance thing year after year after year and others check in for a season or two then check out...
... never to return?
There is something unseen happening.
I think I know what it is.
Sacrifice.
For better or worse...
- could be skipping a new car for a better bike
- an hour later out at night for an early run
- a quick swim instead of a tv binge
... we've sacrificed something.
That sacrifice produces the faith necessary to really go for it,
go for that insane physical goal we've set.
It gives us hope.
And, we love that...
... in everything we do.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/93/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
YOU'RE GONNA SAY THIS IS IT
THINGS AREN'T GOING to go according to plan. Everything is going to go south. Everything. And you're going to say this is it..
... This is how I end.
You can accept that,
or you can get to work.
That's all it is.
You just begin.
Solve one problem.
And then the next.
If you solve enough problems...
... you get to cross the finish line.
Adapted from the closing scene of The Martian.
It's a long movie,
about solving problems,
which is what we do the moment...
... we register for a race or commit snagging that elusive PR.
(highly recommend the movie)
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
8sh hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/95/-7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
IF WE'RE REALLY LUCKY, and we (you n me) are, we'll stumble into something that keeps us endlessly fascinated. No matter how much we do it, or how long we put it on pause...
... it is always, ALWAYS, a ton a fun.
How can we do it forever?
At a high level?
Before I tell ya the answer...
- age
- friends
- failure to progress
... we gotta accept the challenges.
1. If we aren't on point with our health choices, age may ravish us...
... and not the sexy kind.
2. As the playground circles the sun...
... many of our friends will hang it up (see #1.)
3. Failure to progress...
... leads to boredom.
Today, I hooked my sassy grin...
- rode with younger cats
- picked up a new trick
- pushed my limits
... up to the firehose of youth.
1. Lucked into shredding a lot of single track with Steve and Brian...
... the schedules aligned, the conversations vibrant.
2. Coming in hot to a corner, Steve locked up the rear wheel...
... Why did you do that? To vector the turn and change trajectory.
3. Brian, did you launch off that rock?...
... Yeah, came around the turn so fast I had to.
The real secret to the fountain of youth...
... making and keeping young friends.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE HIDDEN ADVANTAGE
WE'RE BUSY. We work. Raise families. Participate in communities. Do our duties...
... what's our hidden advantage?
Just that.
We know how to...
- schedule
- pacify
- lead
... and we have perspective.
Which is what sets us apart,
keeps us in the hunt...
... 'till we cross the finish line.
===
164 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
DARE OR DARE NOT
SOMEWHERE AROUND 8 YEARS OLD, we learn of daring. Someone gets dared. We don't even know what the word means and, yet...
... we do.
Because there is tone.
An unsaid judgment.
I dare you.
Our response...
- bold
- calm
- weak
... means everything.
Later in life, that cat in the mirror still dares us...
... if we are lucky.
What are you daring yourself to do in 2026?
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SHOW A FRIEND AROUND TOWN?
GETTING A LONG-DISTANCE FRIEND TO VISIT is mostly rare, for most of us. We post to Starva, talk up our locale...
... to the point of bragging.
Then, the friend shows up.
Suddenly, we're wondering...
- will they be impressed
- can they keep up
- will they crash
... how this is gonna go down>
There was a time when Surfergirl would take such visiting friends aside and whisper...
... Be careful, he's kinda crazy.
Couldn't blame her as more than a few returned bleeding,
one with a broken bone.
It wasn't on purpose.
- I'd just forget
- be in the zone
- having a blast
... thinking they were doing the same.
The local, me...
... could rip the trails blindfolded.
Everyone else was riding blind.
Anyway...
... Tim did great today.
(I knew he would, and didn't really back it down at all.)
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/91/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GOOD NEWS: THERE'S HOPE!
THIS TIME OF YEAR, the schedule gets crowded. The company parties, family get togethers, community events...
... we want to attend 'em all.
It eats into the training time.
And, that's good.
Just yesterdee, Surfergirl reminded me of our date to see Gentry.
Her favorite trio was in town for a Christmas concert.
Driving down, we wondered if we'd run into any friends,
walking in we saw my brother and sisterinlaw...
... seating, we were astonished.
We were exactly right behind them.
Couldn't have planned it better,
total surprise.
But, that's not the point.
We were carried away in the spirit of the night...
... all the world's nonsense, forgotten.
When we returned home, there was a package on the doorstep.
Incredible...
... a customer had hand made classic ornaments for each of our family members.
As a gift.
The real point is if we'll shut off the news, the pointless socials and get out to events and people we love we find...
... there's hope!
Hoping you'll find plenty of time to share your love for others in the coming weeks.
===
162.2 lbs/12.2%
7.5 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/86/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE BEST FREE ADVICE YOU NEVER PAID FOR
WE ALL GET ACHES AND PAINS. Mostly, we just blow 'em off knowing in a few days things will right themselves. At least that's the idea. But, we are organic...
... our equipment is not.
It won't self heal,
like our miraculous bodies.
No matter how much positive energy we send it...
... those creaks won't go away on their own.
We gotta respect and inspect 'em.
I mean really figure it out.
Lemme splain it.
I've had an annoying creak for a couple of weeks.
Finally, last Friday...
- removed cranks
- checked, cleaned bottom bracket
- found a broken bolt on the chain ring spider
... thought that'd solve everything.
Mostly, kinda.
However, last steep climbs at end of Saturday's ride indicated problem not resolved.
Took into the shop for professional treatment.
Ace mechanic gives me a call.
It's not good.
How bad.
Axle in hub is cracked.
Yikes.
Yeah, it coulda been bad.
How bad?
Well, if it broke while riding it would have destroyed the hub innards, and...
And, what?
... and possibly locked up the wheel.
Now, I dunno how things are where you live, but on that ride I'd just finisihed...
... I hit 35 mph over a rocky, gravel fire road.
Had that wheel locked up...
... I'd be dead, at best.
Consider this the best free advice you Never paid for...
- bike
- bones
- muscles
... Fix thy creaks!
===
162.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HAVE YOU HAD A CLASSY SMOKE, LATELY?
CELEBRATING AN EPIC EFFORT is, can be, a powerful factor in repeatability. You know, whether or not we ever do it again and...
... gain the associated benefits.
Old time movies we so classy.
In black and white.
Couple meets,
goes to dinner and dancing,
the very next scene we see...
... they are covered up, smoking in bed!!!
Here's how we do it most Saturdays.
Meet up at the corner,
hit it hard for 3-4 hours,
the next thing we know...
... we're at the country store.
Cokes, RedBulls, chips, even had Zingers yesterday...
... our version of smoking in bed.
===
Now, here's the diabolical brainwashing science...
- guaranteeing many repeat performances
... celebrating with lots of sugar and caffeine burns those good feelings in.
===
165.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
APPRECIATING A ROUGH START
FOR SOME GETTING STARTED is easy, for other it's hard. Even messy. So, what's better...
... an easy start or a tricky start?
Take today.
We'd climbed 4141', 13.4 miles.
The start, though steep, was pretty smooth.
The final 4.5 miles, were quite a bit rougher.
Lots of rocks.
I really suffered that last 2ish miles.
After a bit of a break,
it was time to plummet back down.
We pushed the pace pretty good those first 4 1/2 miles...
... over terrain I've flatted on many times.
I knew the next 9 miles were smoother, but...
... after the previous beating they seemed like a freeway.
We screamed down.
Surprisingly, I posted my 3rd fastest time ever.
(In case you're wondering if that was my 3rd time down, it was my 44th since 2012, per Starva)
This served as a good reminder...
... if we push through a rough start, we gain the skills to go much faster.
===
Further update on the Conti Dubitals...
- they roll reallyreallyreally fast
- corner dependably at high speed
- seem to be pretty darn puncture resistant
... I'm loving 'em.
Looking forward to playing with pressures,
I think I can run lower than the 16 and 17 I ran today.
(that was in the cold garage, before the heated up on the actual ride which would increase the pressure by a few pounds)
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/107/-18 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT ARE WE RIDING SATURDAY?
WE ALL HAVE A RHYTHM TO OUR TRAINING. We have a favorite rotation of workouts, training partners, intensity...
... just like the goto dinner schedule.
When all else fails, I know spaghetti and meat balls is a winner.
No matter what I have planned.
When it comes to Saturdays, the...
- crew
- pace
- route
... I have a few defaults.
If I've had two hard sessions during the week,
I'm leaning towards a longish sweetspot/tempo ride.
If the week only had one high intensity completed,
I'm gonna wring it out on Saturday.
This week's Wednesday Worlds was kinda hard, therefore...
... tomorrow I have a nasty 1ish hour uphill TT planned.
The younsters are gonna make me hurt.
Can't wait!
How do you do it?
===
165.6 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TACKY, TORQUEY TESTING... CONTI DUBNITALS
GETTING NEW EQUIPMENT is always fun. Usually, it is preceded by all kinds of Kool-Aid drinking. You know, the marketing team laying it on thick...
... and our friends laughing at our antiquated ways.
This week, I bit.
Finally jumped to wider tires.
From 2.2 RaceKing in back and 2.2 CrossKing in front to...
... 2.4 Dubnitals, front and rear.
My testing took place on our local single tracks...
... while doing low-cadence, torque climbing in Zone 2.
I'd rip down,
ponder performance on way back up.
Going from 2.2 to 2.4 doesn't appear to be much,
the tires are a bit lighter than the 2.2s
My initial...
- they go from edge to edge much quicker
- seem to roll very fast
- traction is great
... reactions.
I think they're gonna be a great upgrade,
will test on the smoking fast downhills, Saturday.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MUTUALLY ASSURED DESTRUCTION
IF IT TAKES A VILLAGE to raise a child, then, for us, it obviously takes a group to train us up proper. The right gaggle...
... has countless benefits.
Number 1 being speed.
Which is why I did the Wednesday Worlds today, and rolled right into...
... Pain Cave.
When we're on form,
this is an hour segment of riding just below detonation.
Today was much easier...
- the group was slowish
- BBB and I cruised Pain Cave
- catching up and discussing next year's goals
... we were 5 minutes off the PRs.
That will come down because we committed to some rather outlandish goals.
Which means, we'll be pressing the pace on the WW ride,
then duking it out on Pain Cave.
Leading to our mutually assured destruction the rest of the work day...
... and, what we hope will be a massively successful 2026 campaign.
===
If we do it correctly, we'll sprout wings.
Deal below.
Use promo code: VELOBONES
To save 20% on any t-shirt in the collection.
Expires on 12.5.25
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
===
165.4 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/95/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
420 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
OTB OR OTB?
WE HAVE ALL THESE CODE WORDS and acronyms in our culture. The deeper we get into it...
... the cryptic they become.
Here's the mechanic's favorite...
... I was just riding along.
His eye's roll and he scribbles on the notes...
... JRA.
I heard another from a shop owner who was barely hanging on and his "loyal" patrons were constantly asking for discounts and free stuff...
... he called them Freetards.
I've been guilty of both of those and quickly cleaned up my evil ways once I got the hint.
But, this one...
... it's been hard to stay away from.
OTB.
This one is a two-fer,
I can't get it out of my mind lately.
Off the back...
... which is where I seem to be finding myself a little more than my liking.
Over the bars...
... luckily, my recent wipeouts have been on solo rides.
===
165.8 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU CHOPPING WOOD?
WE ALL HAVE A FAVORITE MOVIE, book or story. One that inspires us to be more than we currently are, or return to a place we once dominated. These myths are important because...
... they can lead and guide us to a better future.
Truly powerful.
One of my all time favorites is Rocky IV.
Rocky, seeing his once enemy, the great Apollo Creed, who became his friend and mentor, get crushed by a Russian giant...
... decides he must do something completely different.
He must go...
- runs
- pulls a sled
- carries logs
- throws boulders
- chops down a tree
... to snowy and freezing Siberia.
Maybe it's winter,
maybe it's cold...
... maybe they only way to get nasty fit is chopping wood like Rocky.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
00 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
EARNING VS LEARNING
LIFE IS LIKE AN EPIC CARD GAME. We're dealt our genetic hand. As little children, we have no idea...
... we're just running around having fun.
Somewhere around the age of 8 or so we realize...
... we're not all created equal.
I can throw,
my aim is woeful.
I can run,
my friends are faster.
I can swim,
holding my breath is a struggle.
Most of us here, found we love to endure...
... persistence and suffering are out super powers.
We can't earn our way to a sub-4 minute mile, but...
... we can learn how to be faster and more efficient.
That's the journey we are on.
Learning how to be our best.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TRAINING BLOCKHEAD
FOR MANY OF US, this is the time to back things down. Pick up a sporty side hustle. Hit the weights...
... do something different.
Makes sense.
The next season is a long way off.
Just one problem.
Physics.
You can't shoot a cannon from a canoe.
Meaning, when the season does come around, we're going to need a good base from which to start launching our hard efforts.
So, whatawee 'posed ta do?
Personally, I'm gonna...
- have fun
- be more socisl
- challenge my skills
... while logging some solid base mile.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
6.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/107/-20 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU COMFY?
WE HEAR A LOT ABOUT comfort zones. How we want to avoid them because they hold us back, lead us to settling for...
... more than we can be.
Who wants that?
Things I think about after a less frightful drop down one of my all time favorite descents.
I held the KOM at one point,
still top 11.
Back than, I was really, really at ease on that screamer...
... in a state of flow, relaxed.
Comfy.
The good kind.
Yesterday, on the same segment, I was a hot mess.
Smiley on my rear wheel, showing his front wheel, asking...
... Are you riding cautious?
I wanted to say...
... Heck no, and Screw you!
Things were not flowing,
I was gripping.
Hard.
It was very uncomfortable because I haven't been on my MTB much the last year or so.
Practice leads to comfy,
comfy leads to flow,
flow leads to ripping.
Effortlessly.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/94/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THERE'S A LEGENDARY CLIMB
SOARING 5600' ABOVE SEA LEVEL, we have access to a legendary climb. A gravel fire road. It's the kind of challenge we can sink our teeth into, get a baseline for our fitness...
... set legit goals.
The mountain ain't movin'...
- 9 miles
- 3000'
- 6.3%
... but, we are.
The KOM is held by current world tour pro Kevin Vermaerke,
which he probably set in the NICA days.
53:10
The next 9 are local legends...
... the legit kind, not the goofy Starva thing.
There are two ways to view...
- I'm slow, and I suck
- I'm slow, and I can improve
- I'm slow, and I'm dawgawn grateful to be ripping with my pals
... today's traditional Thanksgiving effort.
One more takeaway.
When I set my PR, we lived much closer to the mountain and I'd ride it 3-4 times a month.
It was a goto.
And, it got me thinking...
... if I wanna slay like that again, I gotta do it more.
Maybe every week for the rest of 2025,
and chop 18 minutes off today's time?
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
84/90/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I NEVER LIFTED WEIGHTS UNTIL I GOT INTO THE NFL...
MOST OF US ARE PROBABLY HEADING OUT for the local turkey trot or some sort of holiday ride. It's tradition, followed by the traditional...
... Did you ride or run today?
Which deserves...
... Yes, and the sun also rose this morning.
Earning an...
... I bet your hungry!
Usually followed by a...
... I didn't know you could eat so much pie!
At some point someone will turn on "the game".
As full as we are,
as much as that lycra gonna be stressed tomorrow...
... we realize endurance training doesn't favor or create massive muscles.
Which brings me to one of my all time favorite athletes...
... the Great Hershel Walker.
Dude was devastating in college and NFL.
This quote must have been so humiliating to those left flattened on the field....
- 2000-3000 pushups/day
- 3000-5000 crunches/day
- hundreds of pullups/day
- hundreds of dips/day
- air squats and lunges thousands
- 20-50 yard sprints
... I never lifted weights until I got into the NFL.
Damn.
We may not be - ok, never will be - built like Hershel, but...
... kinda makes ya wonder how much stronger we could be.
Dedicating little time,
from home.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
20 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/82/0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STRATEGY VS THE DREAM
LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR yet? Maybe it's too early, I mean jeez it's not even Thanksgiving yet. But, almost...
... so, it might not be too soon.
There's no rule on that.
I was thinking about this on my ride yesterday.
What comes first...
... strategy or the dream.
Especially with all the InfooIncers on the socials.
You know which ones kill me....
... literally saw this one today...
... Download My 47 Points To Master Advertising Now!
hahahahahah
But, you get the idea.
We can get so hyped up on a new (to us) strategy...
- Single-legged box jumps while hula-hooping for explosive sprinting
- One million grams of carbohydrate from bonking to crushing
- Sleep like a grizzly and maul the group ride
... we start looking for a race to unleash.
I've done it,
still do it.
We can all be suckers,
the cons are as appealing as the conmen.
Anyway, what I concluded after zonetwoing my way around town was...
... The Field of Dream if we build it, they will come...
... is kinda right.
The players, errr strategies, don't show up until the field is built.
In other words, once we identify the...
- A race
- impossible PR
- unconquerable route
... then, and only then, will the strategies we need be apparent.
Let me say it differently.
We can quickly toss aside...
- techniques
- strategies
- hacks
... the worthless dross.
Because the really good stuff that works is easy to see...
... once we have our dream/goal/desire firm and clear in our minds.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/74/7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
NOT AS GOOD?
JOURNALISTS ARE SO MUCH SMARTER than us fans, they have incredible insights we just can't fathom. Why it's a wonder we even...
... bother seeing with our own eyes.
This is gold.
A journo says...
... MVdP is nowhere near as good as Tadej.
On the heels of saying...
... MVdP beat Tadej on the races he wanted to win.
He being MVdP,
and he being Tadej.
Wait,
what?
He's not as good,
but he beats him?
Oh, journo.
Here's the dill, and...
... it's a good lesson for us lowly amachuros.
On certain courses...
... certain riders are unbeatable.
The challenge is to find our course.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/12 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
MY VICE IS TERRIBLE, MY CULT IS WORSE
FEW OF US HAVE BEEN TO AN AA MEETING, but we've seen TV/movie version many times. Hi, I'm Todd and...
... I'm an endurance junkie.
Hi Todd.
When we come clean with the general population, Today I...
- swam 10,000 yards
- rode for 5 hours
- ran 20 miles
... they think we're crazy.
We're not.
The adrenaline rush of ...
- 60 miles an hour in nothing but lycra
- the swimmers blue mind
- the runner's high
... we need that hit.
Regularly.
This risks we take...
- sending it down the mountain
- running along into the cold, dark night
- impossibly holding our breath one more length
... would freakout any life insurance company.
These sensations of pushing well beyond normal, reasonable, safe...
... are often all that's keeping us stable.
In all sincerity, because the allure of the lottery and dulling our senses with substances is so very tempting and tragically treacherous...
... stay dangerous my friends.
The sane kind.
===
165.4 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/70/11 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HOW WE SOLVE PROBLEMS
SOME PROBLEMS ARE HARDER than others to solve. It can be frustrating when the answers just aren't coming. This is...
... how I solve my problems.
It's a question of time, right?
The truly unsolvable problems need marinating...
- clearly identify what needs to be solved
- set aside time
- get outside
... during a very lazy ride, run or swim.
The only goal is to solve the problem.
A stop for a pastry and drink is often required...
... I carry a journal and a pen to help me flush out ideas.
The best problems take require more...
- miles
- creativity
- "fuel" stops
... 3 or 4 or a lot more sessions.
Just today I was trying to figure out what to focus on...
- goals
- events
- milestones
... for next year.
Went for a ride,
had a brainstorm,
came home to the Giant calendar.
And they think we ride just for fun and fitness!
===
165 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/81/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BECAUSE IT'S BEAUTIFUL
WE ALL HAVE A WAY to perform. Whether it's vanquishing, showing off, sufferfesting, truly enjoying every moment, our individual efforts...
... leave a lasting impression.
On others,
on ourselves.
Is there a best way?
Right way?
Only way?
Let us not gaze into our own navel but...
- racers
- promoters
- business leaders
- matriarchs and patriarchs
- community and governments
... appreciate for better or worse.
It is what it is.
I was recently struck by a singer...
- unknown by most
- unwilling to submit to label demands
- who died without much fame or fortune at 33
... sold more than 10,000,000 records posthumously.
What?!... how? who?
The great Eve Cassidy sang as if every song was a gift to the listener,
with uncommon love and passion.
Nothing more.
May we all do our thing with such beauty.
===
Pull down her tracks on your music app... good wrenching vibes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4C1_oNzhU7U
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/65/16 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ON THE GAS
A LITTLE KNOWN SECRET to not falling over is going faster. It's counterintuitive. But, it's the first thing we taught the kids when they started riding motos in the desert...
... speed is our friend.
Then why did I suffer so badly last weekend in a desert-bound gravel race?
You didn't have a motor Dingdong!
No, it's more than that...
... and I've thought about it a lot this week.
The 92-mile race
- low gradient climbs and descents
- long, long straight roads
- mostly flat
... provided very little coasting.
We had to stay on the gas.
It's not like the terrain here,
most of my ride profiles look like a lumberjack's saw blade.
Anyway, I'm thinking about that this week because I'm starting to do sweetspot training...
... 90% of FTP, without coasting.
I've got to stay on the gas (the pedals).
It's hard to do when we have so many punchy climbs and lots of turns.
But, I'm a committed fool when it comes to this stuff.
===
By the way, you might be one of the horde who loved this jersey...
... which means you'll probably love the kit.
If you wanna rock this awesomeness click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
There's an insane offer, so don't forget to click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/67/14 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
>
TAKE TWO, AND CALL ME IN THE MORNING
GETTING A COLD is annoying. Can't train like we want to, can't sleep well, hard to be productive. If we get near our lover fingers are raised in an X...
... so, what do we do?
To speed it up.
There are my goto...
- Zicam at first hint
- Pollo Loco tortilla soup
- Insanely hot and long showers
... rider's tales.
Then there's what I did today...
... which could massively backfire, tomorrow.
I woke up,
it was cold.
I had a cold,
and hemmed and hawed.
I consulted my alter ego Dr. Goforit, who said...
- raise your body temperature
- the nose will start to flow
- blow that gunk out
... Put on a kit and get on two wheels.
Torture.
I've had mixed success over the years.
I'll either be on my way to pneumonia...
... or good as new tomorrow.
===
165 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE GODLY CONNECTION IS STRONG IN THIS ONE
BEING OUTSIDE and unplugged is more than just an escape from "the real world". Most people in "modern society" rarely experience what that is like. We do because...
... that's where we thrive.
And, we're moving fast.
Even if we're practicing our craft daily,
and the whether is good,
we could use more.
Not less.
I experienced a snippet of much more on our road trip.
We took time to visit the land my greatgreatgrandfather homesteaded 100 years ago.
No one else was there but us.
Access is via a gravel road,
10 miles from a 2-lane highway.
No cell service.
The only inputs,
each other and nature.
The peace and solitude remarkable.
Over night, the temps dipped low enough to freeze the rain puddles from the prior evening.
We were cozy,
the van has a heater.
Still, when we rose to stretch and visit this hallowed land filled with childhood and parenthood memories...
... we were shocked by the reality of nature.
Not in a negative way,
one that makes you feel alive,
connected to more than a paycheck and bills.
To God.
To acquire the land...
- the extreme temps at 7000'
- the distance by horse or wagon to town
- the loneliness during the months no one came to visit
... E. M. Whiting had to stay on it and not leave, for two years.
How else could he make such a sacrifice if not feeling a closeness to his creator?
I feel it when I'm...
- there
- in the surf
- on our local trails
... and love it.
Need it.
And so...
- walk
- hike
- ride
- run
- surf
- swim
- camp
... we keep inviting and encouraging our friends to join us.
Outside.
===
164.2 lbs/12.6%
9ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MIRROR, MIRROR, ON THE...
DISNEY CREATED AN EMPIRE animating fairytales. Because the appeal is so strong, with little to no cultural barriers we have to ask ourselves not just why, but...
... which is our favorite.
Then, why?
Personally, Cinderella is my top choice.
Not just the story arc,
the snappy dances,
or catchy songs.
There's an orphan in all of us.
Often we don't see who we really are,
out talents lying dormant.
Could be naysayers,
could be something else.
It's nice that Price Charming is a price,
it's charming that he sees Cinderella as she really is.
The point isn't...
- Where's my prince charming?
- Who will save the day for me?
- Why am I not picked?
... to wallow in our sorrows.
The point is for whom are we Prince Charming?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
9ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/67/16 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT’S IN OUR DNA
TOO FEW OF US know our family history. Some barely know cousins. Great-grandparents? Forget about it. It’s just not a thing. And, yet…
… what could be more important?
To know their stories,
is to know ourselves.
Which is why we drove hours out of our way after the bike race.
Here in eastern Arizona, to soak of our roots.
Surfergirl’s great-grandfather helped settle Snowflake,
my great-great grandfather helped settle Saint Johns.
They are neighboring towns,
about 20 miles apart.
And the communities were quite friendly with each other.
You’d think we grew up out here,
and that’s how we met and married.
Not so.
I was born and raised in SoCal,
she was raised in Hawaii.
Maybe somethings are meant to be.
But, that’s not really the point.
This is hard country,
the high desert.
To carve a life and community out of nothing took strength, smarts, and massive cooperation…
… the same qualities it takes to complete very challenging endurance events.
Who is an ancestor that inspires you?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/87/-0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I WANNA PUT A DENT IN THAT GIRL
IN THE HEAT OF BATTLE we can say and do the craziest things. You know things we might not normally say or do. And, at the time...
... they sound/seem totally normal.
Like today.
I had the awesome opportunity to flat 15 minutes into the 92 mile race...
... suddenly I'm swearing like a sailor.
It wasn't horrific,
still, glad no one was around.
Spent the next 50 miles basically riding by myself.
Doing my best.
Jumping from group to group.
I roll up on one of the female leaders,
bridge across to another badass Barbie.
And, I hear her say the funniest thing...
... I wanna put a dent in that girl.
Speaking of the other racer.
I visualize a halloween scene,
hatchet stuck in the helmet.
Hahaha.
Then the crass, neanderthal in me thinks...
... that sounds like something I'd like to do on date night.
Not the hatchet...
... if you know what I mean.
These crazy thoughts are birthed in our very depleted states, as we...
... do our best to stay upright and moving forward.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY WOULD ANYBODY GO TO DOUGLASS, AZ?
RACING VENUES ARE HARD TO COME BY, especially in big cities. Almost impossible. The result is the bigger the race, the more likely we are to travel...
... someplace we've never been.
Would never go.
Here I am,
two hours south of Tucson,
on the Mexican border, in Douglass, AZ.
This gravel race has the same vibe as my first Leadville,
back in '99.
Small town,
somewhat forgotten.
Which makes it a perfect place to stage a gravel race...
... surrounded my endless gravel roads.
I decided to sponsor the race for three reasons...
- Mike, the promoter, is hella nice and persistent.
- He's a huge fan of our products
- I'm a huge fan of gravel races
... which are the only reasons to sponsor anything.
Passion and admiration for what each other are doing.
Funny story.
I have actually been here before.
Back in the 80's.
I was doing missionary work in Mexico and our visas needed to be renewed. Five us youngsters piled in a van and hit to Agua Prieto, MX. The plan was to walk across to Douglass, wait five minutes and walk back with new visas.
We were greeted with...
... No, no gringo. No se puede asi. (Not so fast whitey, you can't do it like that.)
So we...
- spent the night in Motel 6
- chomped Pizza Hut
- watched ESPN
... forgot all our Spanish.
And crossed back the next day.
I'm guessing Borderlands gravel will be slightly more challenging.
Good night now.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/64/18 (fitness/fatigue/form) ... somebody is tapered!
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HURRY UP
IN OUR EFFORTS TO GET FASTER, we often think of the many benefits. Mainly health, youthfulness. And truth is...
... we are better than most, not as good as some.
Who's better?
By that, do you mean...
... how could anybody be better???
We are aerobic machines, and that is a key to longevity.
Mostly.
Here are...
- Sprints
- Weights
... the missing ingredients.
I know, I know...
- sprinting sucks
- weights can be dangerous
- and, for the weenies in the back, who wants to gain weight?
... what you're thinking.
According to research, when we lift weights not only do our bones get denser but there are intra-muscular gains to be made that we cannot get any other way.
You know what else is weird, most people in our culture never sprint again after their early twenties.
So, here's the main takeaway from all scientific facts do 'em and...
... move faster, age slower.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/71/13 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GIVERS
THERE ARE THOSE WHO VOLUNTEER selflessly and those who volunteer selfishly. Both are admirable. In fact, when I was a race promoter it blew my mind that...
... people just reach out and offer their assistance.
Just giving where there's an obvious need.
I ran into a selfish one tonight.
The sun had set,
my headlight was on.
I was making my way cautiously because the ruts on this particular trail are bad and...
... there's an enormous sinkhole that might kill ya.
As a get there...
... did I say it was pitch dark?...
... a man is standing with a shovel in one hand and a trowel in the other.
Creepy?
Scary?
Nope, I knew what he was up to.
Not burying bodies...
... prepping the trail so when it rains this weekend the ruts will fill in.
I stopped.
Introduced myself.
Thanked him profusely.
No need, I just moved here and can't believe how lucky we are to have these trails right here. Just wanna make 'em perfect for my kids and me to ride on.
To which I could only say...
... Bro, you gotta let me make you a custom RaceDay Bag.
Is there a better gift?
===
165.8 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I THINK I VOIDED THE WARRANTY
LIVING IN THE ACTION SPORTS MECCA of the world, I'm surrounded and influenced by all manner of creative, ingenious athletes. We all feed off each other. My friend Kody...
... started making super aero computer mounts.
3D printed gloriousness.
My new MTB was in need.
I reached out.
Got a mount for Roval bars?
Yes.
Cool, I'll get one.
We haven't tested for lights yet.
He thought I was asking for my road bike.
So yeah...
- the road mount is super aero
- looks freakin' awesome
- supports a light
... survived and thrived on first MTB ride.
Did my evil test void the warranty?
I dunno.
But, this is...
- come up product ideas
- make it
- test it
... what we do around here.
Here's a ink to his site: https://nanoworx.shop
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/85/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DO YOU KNOW YOUR GOLDILOCKS NUMBER?
WE ARE ALL SEARCHING for that magic number of hours to maximize our training. You know, the Goldilocks amount. Not too little. Not too much...
... the perfect amount of work.
I know where it is.
You do to.
Look back over the year.
Find the week that didn't wreck you, the...
- hours
- distance
- intensity
... I can do this every week.
Bonus/verification if you had any...
- Segments
- PWR
- HR
... PRs the following week(s)?
That's your Goldilocks number.
Mine's about...
- saddle time
- bit of strength work
- some sort of other fun
... 13 hours/week.
What's yours?
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU GET 1 WISH
2026 WILL BE HERE soon enough. Many of us are already planning work, vacations, family time...
... and, yes, races.
You get 1 wish.
Here it is...
- lay out your Giant RaceDay Calendar
- scour the interwebs for races
- pick one, and do it
... no limitations.
Imagine it...
- Anywhere on this giant blue marble.
- Any time of the year
- Dream equipment
- Fantastic lodging
- Clear schedule
... and ask yourself.
If not this year...
... when?
'Cause here's the deal, if we only did one race next year...
... we could probably make it happen.
It's just a mental game, play it out, and let me know...
... where, when and why.
Me personally, my top choices...
- Gravel Burn, South Africa
- Oregon Trail
- Rebecca's Private Idaho
... are gravel stage races.
Gravel Burn looks insane.
===
You do have a Giant RaceDay Calendar, right?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
===
164.4 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/91/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE REBEL ALLIANCE IS GROWING
EVERY NOW AND THEN a new format or race or course or piece of equipment comes along with promises to change everything. Except hardly anything changes...
... until something sparks.
How does that work?
Like this.
About 10 years ago, I purchased my first gravel bike.
My friends, like me, were roadies and mountain bikers.
A gravel bike seemed like the worst of both worlds.
I got it,
understood where they were coming from.
Except, I was having so dang much fun...
... I didn't care.
I just kept riding gravel,
inviting my friends,
enduring their
mockery.
It wasn't overnight,
more like overdecade.
The last two Saturdays, most telling.
Eight days ago, an absolute shredder on a mountain bike shows up on a spanking new gravel bike.
30 minutes in, he's grinning and shouting...
... This looks so wrong, but gadang it's fun!
Today, another pal shows up for his first group gravel ride.
He's gifted off road, we spent years riding motos in the desert...
... We're going 30+ miles an hour, I can't believe how much ground we can cover!
Does that mean you should be riding gravel, too?
Maybe.
But, really, it's just a lesson in how things that are worthwhile spread.
Then again...
... What did the gravel bike say to the road bike?
I am your father.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
90/105/-15 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FAMOUS COACHES ARE GETTING FIRED RIGHT AND LEFT
IN PRO SPORTS, or high level amateur, there is always a spot light on the coaches. At some point, blame or credit lands...
... squarely on their shoulders.
Should it?
I do love to follow college football...
- the emotional swings
- the athleticism
- the stadiums
... so much energy and unpredictablity.
Who would have thought so many megamilliondollar...
... coaches would be punted this year.
Mid-season.
The great Seth Godin wrote The Gap.
The idea behind the book is when we find ourselves unable to close the gap to our goal...
... the sooner we decide to quit and move on, the better.
It might be a pro gambling tactic as well...
... but, the only gambling I do is putting my heart, soul and cash into this business.
Anyway, would you have/have you had the guts...
... to change directions, and how quickly would you do it?
===
163.6 lbs/12.4%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CHOOSE WORTHY ADVERSARIES
WHAT IS IT ABOUT LOVING UNDERDOGS? It's so uniquely American. Is it our origin story, the DNA of our culture...
... to cheer for the fighter with no chance?
Honestly.
Who can't feel a bit of their own soul being crushed with every blow the awesome Apollo Creed delivers to a...
... bloodied, bruised, crushed Rocky Balboa?
We've all been in that arena.
Had the bell ring.
Still standing.
Somehow.
We humans thrive against overwhelming adversaries...
- inspiration
- desperation
- exasperation
... oozing with confidence and power.
When our all is required,
we discover who we really are.
As the great Kierkegaard said...
... What doesn't kill me makes me stronger.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/88/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MY TOP 5 SPEED HACKS
FOR MOST OF US, going faster, getting better, has less to do with a fancy new gizmo or the latest training fad. We know that...
... but, what are doing about it?
Like the Mastercard ad says...
... some things are priceless.
Here are five...
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Strength
- Maintenance
- Consistency
... anybody can do.
These are my hacks.
Sleep.
Figure out when we want to wake up. Get in bed 8 hours prior to that. Stay there until it's time. Eventually, our bodies get the hang of it, and boom... we're sleep doping.
Nutrition.
Eat clean. No packaged foods. If we can't identify the ingredients, we don't consume it.
Strength.
Do the basics, at home. We don't have time to drive to the gym. No need to do all the sets at once, break 'em up throughout the day. Hardly any equipment is needed: pull up bar, a few dumbbells (adjustables for the win).
Maintenance.
New equipment is so nice because it is all tight and precise. Flawless maintenance will keep that new equipment performance for years, and we'll always be race ready.
Consistency.
If we always train at the same time magic happens. Those around us learn and appreciate our commitment. We get it done. Always.
A final word.
I was never the best athlete. Not among my friends, and certainly not at school or among the general population.
I was never picked first, couldn't aim or hit anything regularity.
I wasn't the bravest or most daringist.
I did have one thing going for me...
... I freakin' loved being outside and being challenged by nature.
Today, I'm probably better than almost all my contemporaries.
That's not a flex, it's just happens.
They quit.
Which brings us to the top two hacks of all time...
... commitment and passion.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU'VE LOST THAT AWESOME FEELING... GET IT BACK!
THERE'S A CERTAIN SOMETHING we feel during the early days of picking up our passion. It's tangible. We can taste it. We love it...
... that's how we got here.
I'd lost it.
Over the last couple of years, drunk with stupid stats from Training Peaks and Starva...
- more time
- more miles
- more climbing
... I found myself wallowing in fatigue.
Don't get me wrong.
I'd line up, or roll out with the pals, and, though I might be quick to drift back...
... the ability to endure for hours was ridiculous.
Something snapped.
Or, lightning struck.
I dunno.
But, a few weeks ago, I woke up and said...
Screw it!
I'm cutting down the long slogs...
... and bringing back sprint days.
2-3 hours became 90 minutes.
With 10-15 VO2 max efforts,
lasting 10 seconds to 5 minutes.
I'm super fortunate to live close to trails with a lot of straight up and straight down...
... I let the terrain dictate how long the sprint lasts.
Then, focus on my DH skills...
... coasting, staying off the brakes, carving and carrying speed.
The upshot, after 90 minutes and 10+ solid efforts?
I feel amazing,
not pooped.
Sprinting engages all our muscles and focus...
... a total mind, body soul work out.
Soul?
Yeah, trust me.
Do 'em right, and you'll see stars and feel God's presence could be imminent.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU CAN'T GROW A BEARD OVERNIGHT
WE WANNA BE FASTER. Right now. Not this season, not this month, not this week, not today. Right now...
... 300 meters from the finish line.
Houston, we have a problem.
Go ahead.
We forgot to add fuel to the return booster.
Sucks to be you.
Yeah.
We can't grow a beard overnight.
A good one, for some of us...
... can take months.
If we wanna be fast in the final sprint,
if we wanna negative split the course...
... we gotta put in the work before we need the result.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CULTURE WARS
THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF TRAINING groups. Both extend invitations...
... the similarities stop there.
One culture assures...
- everyone is ready to start together
- there are plenty of stops
- nobody gets left behind
... fairness and concern.
The other demands...
- leaving on time
- no stopping
- no waiting
... rugged individuals.
The group we...
- join
- create
- help grow
... depends on the result we are looking for.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
180 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SIMPLY BELIEVE
Feb 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I FINALLY GOT AROUND TO FINISHING PHILTHETHRILL GAIMON'S BOOK, Pro Cycling On $10 A DAY. He concludes with two valuable lessons.
First, keep the workouts simple.
Phil's hardest training block ever was two weeks with Tom Danielson on Mount Lemon in Tucson. I've ridden that climb myself... think of a long, long, long very steady climb. Day one, 3 sets of 20 minute intervals... followed by 5 hours of easy riding. Day two, 3 sets of 45 minute intervals. Day three, rest or long and easy. Then start over.
Second, you've got to believe in yourself.
This was painfully drilled into Phil's selfjustifyingbrain by Jonathan Vaughters, before Vaughters signed him to ride for Garmin. Phil had lost crucial seconds and wound up losing GC, was bummed about it. Rather than being consoling, Vaughters wisely rubbed acid in that wound remind Phil to believe in himself.
... normally I've got a bunch of pithypontification about right now, but not today...
Keep it simple.
Believe in yourself.
Here's a simple secret you may not know -> larger water bottles are more aero than small bottles... because they fill in the gap better and reduce wind turbulence.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
I believe you should take advantage of this promo code prior to 2/26/2020
SAVE15
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack
Yes, they still ship free if you use the code.
---
165.2 lbs
rest
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3126596854
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
IT'S ONLY A FLESH WOUND
Feb 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I COULDN'T HEAR THE SKIN GRINDING OFF, the rain too heavy. I couldn't see the damage, the shadows too dark. I couldn't feel the gash, the cold too stiff. But, in my shivering hustle off the mountain I overcooked a corner... my lower leg grinding across the decomposed granite hillside.
That wasn't the plan.
We'd missed perfection by about 30 minutes.
Up until that Makita grinder moment, we'd cheated mamanature. We'd slept in, done our dadly duties. While the morning rain fell on our favorite dusty trail.
When we started, it was purrrrrfect... super tacky, traction o'plenty. 6 miles to the top, 2200', all single track... purrrrrfect single track.
We climbed it once, decently fast, under an hour.
Ripped down.
Climbed it again.
It seemed like a good idea at the time. But, when we got to the top the clouds came in and the temperature dropped.
Even with the incomparable KOM jacket, I was cold. A beanie and leg warmers woulda helped... oh, and a light!
But... but... we'll ALWAYS remember today. It will stand out. One of those, Remember that time moments. Unforgettable.
So maybe it did go according to plan?
... come to think of it, if I'd worn the leg warmers they'd be a little worse of but my leg better off...
I'd say 20% better off... so use this promocode TODDSPOORLEG to save 20% on these leg warmers/skin savers
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-leg-warmers
Use TODDSPOORLEG at check out
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-leg-warmers
In the cloud, time to hustle down.
---
164.4 lbs
50 pull ups
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3123719136
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
WANNA GET LUCKY?
Feb 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SURE, IT'S A HECKUVALOT EASIER 30, 40, 50 RIDERS BACK. It's 30% easier! And that's the problem in a lot of cases.
Wanna get "lucky"?...
... get your buns up front.
Don't come whining to me with silliness like...
... you were lucky to make the break
... you were lucky you missed the pile up
... you were lucky in that sprint
Sheesh... I remember the one and only time I did Tour de Tucson. There were about 7000 people lined up.
Gun goes off.
I'm redlined instantly.
We are flying through town.
All kinda chaos.
But, I'm upfront and I can see. And I'm safe.
Unfortunately, when things settled down a bit I drifted back and a break of 20 went away. Full gas. I'm thinking, not a big deal. 90 miles to go. Then, I see the longest train I've ever seen in my life chugging along...
... and those guys are all in, ALL IN!
Like a scripted scene from a Bond movie they squeeze across the tracks, the gates come down, we screech to a halt.
They were never to be seen again.
If you need more luck in your life ya really oughta check this out...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
... but don't you dare click on that link if ain't in need.
---
165.4 lbs
yoga
7.2 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3119578048
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
SOMETIMES, WHEN YOU ARE A RACER...
Feb 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IN THE IMMORTAL WORDS OF NACHO LIBRE... Sometimes when you are a man, you wear stretchy pants.
I was reminded of that today as I headed out for a quick sunset blast... Sometimes when you are a racer, you ride two-a-day.
Why 2, today?
Because CH texted... Gonna rain Saturday, 80% chance.
Why 2, other days?
Because why not?
Because fun.
Because...
... did you know every time you work out you get a shot of Human Growth Hormone? I read it somewhere.
So, when you see yer peers and they say something like...
Damndude, you're looking good...
or... Damngirl, look at you...
How do you do it?
... two-a-day.
It takes a lot of energy to fuel all that riding, and I like a variety of options like this
https://pedalindustries.com/products/honey-stinger-pack
Save big with promo code TwoADay.
Ships free in USA.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/honey-stinger-pack
---
168.2 lbs
Yoga
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3118086373
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
IT'S JUST MONEY
Feb 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE THINGS I AIM TO DO is get the very best value for any purchase. So, when I saw some cat advertising an amazing wallet for cycling I had to check it out...
... the hyperbolic promises were too great.
There it was, $50. It was beautiful, all leather. Very elegant. Perfect for anything except actually cycling.
It reminded me of my first bibs, Blackbottoms. The chamois was actually leather, and so were my bits and pieces after that first summer.
Being a poorcollegekid, I could scant afford 1 bib.
I'd ride, wash, hang dry, repeat 3-4 times a week.
By summer's end they were sanctified - very holy.
Where was I?...
Oh yeah, wallets and the most humble cycling wallet of all times.
- Made of actual bike parts
- Impossibly durable
- Military grade thread
- So grippy it will never fall out of your jersey
Delivered to your door for 20 bones
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wallets
... or less if you use promo code SAVE10,
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wallets
(I have 10 cards and cash in mine)
Customizable?
Of course... makes a great conversation piece, reminder of what's important, and a supergift for your sponsors.
If you don't have one in your team store, let me know and we'll get it added.
---
166.8 lbs
LegsShoulders
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3115341348
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
DIS COMFORT FOOD
Feb 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
COMFORT FOOD... is there a bigger lie?
After nearly a week with family celebrating the life of a loved one, I'm a bigfatpig... and it's my owndarnfault.
Comfort food was abundant, mass quantities everywhere.
When I woke up this morning, finally back home, I waddled to the scale. Ugh! 5lbs in 5 days.
It got me thinking about the old miserylovescompany thing... and is there anything more miserable than climbing with blubberstuffed bibs?
Of course, some would like company in such moments...
... but, not me...
... heck no...
... leave me alone, with my own thoughts of whattheheckwasIdoing?
I'm sure there's some sort of championshipthinking of paying the price today for victory tomorrow, you know a valuable life lesson summed up in a few choice words... but, let's just be honest... it ain't comfort food, it's...
DisComfort Food
Rant concluded.
The good news is, there's nowhere but down from here.. and if you're down with that then you're probably also down with joining the PEDALposse.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
---
167,6 lbs
0/0
6 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3111153557
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
COMMANDMENTS FOR SPEED
Feb 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE 10 RACER COMMANDMENTS
- Thou shalt ride thy bike as much as thou canst whilst placing thy family and thy social life first, and whilst thou kickist butt at work.
- Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s KOM, but thou shalt chase thine own PRs.
- Thou shalt eat whole foods whenever possible.
- Thou shalt sleep 8+ hours.
- Thou shalt be strong, doing pushups, pullups and such to failure.
- Thy bike shall be clean, thy drivetrain free of drag, thy tires properly pumped.
- Thy wheels, above all other parts, shall be the best thou canst pay cash for.
- Thy jersey and bibs shalt make thee feel fast.
- Thou shalt train with faster riders than thee whenever possible, and thou shalt train at the front of thy congregation.
- Thou shalt have a day of rest, no riding. If standing sit, if sitting lie, if lying prop thy feet up, if they feet are propped close thine eyes and dream of winning.
Eleven... I could go on and on pronouncing from on high, if ya want more go here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
---
(still travelin')
unknown lbs
nada
7ish hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3109428288
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
JUST ONE GOOD DAY
Feb 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M VISITING THE PLACE WHERE IT ALL STARTED FOR ME. Provo, UT. Sure, I'd ridden my Schwinn LeTour around town as a kid, and I'd won the 6th Grade Motocross on my Stingray- which we'd call a Super-D today, but it wasn't until 1985 that I won a legit bike race.
It wasn't even legit, really.
The university ski coach had set up a cycling program centered on crit racing in the giant stadium parking lot.
It was here that I got my most valuable bike handling lession: never let go over the brakes and always keep pedaling.
What he was teaching us was how to keep our speed up and be smooth in a pack vs the typical beginner who stops pedaling and yanks on the brakes at the slightest concern.
Each weekday crit I got a little closer to the win. The throwdown of the C's spint was intoxicating, and I wanted more. On about the fourth or fifth try it worked...
... the passionate, mediocre surfer
... the weak link on a terrible tennis team
... the obscenely late bloomer with his first whiskers at age 21
... got a V.
And, as PhilTheThrill Gaimon says... it just takes one good day to start thinking.
I promptly spent my summer's hard earned cash on a Cannondale touring bike that some yokel in a struggling bike shop conned me into buying because "more gears = more options for speed".
It didn't matter.
That bike took all the punishment I could could give it, and was stable as hell at speed. I'm talking I-80 from Park City to Salt Lake drafting a semi at 60 mph with a t-shirt, cut offs, and a sweet pair of Vuarnets.
I was hooked.
For life.
Speaking of hooked, after skiing and hiking in the mountains the last few days I'm reminding how hooked I am on layers for keeping warm. It's the best way to go, which I confirmed catching up with my pals that live up here.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
Starting with the KOM jacket... and if you use code KOMLAYER...
... and add any other layer product you'll save 50% of the 2nd product.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
Code KOMLAYER will be applied on checkout, remember to add the 2nd item first.
---
unknow
nada
8.3 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3106753719
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
GIANT ADVICE
Feb 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
A REAL GIANT TAUGHT ME A VALUABLE LESSON. It's not enough to be the biggest and the strongest. That's not a guarantee of winning.
This was laid out in the classic movie The Princess Bride.
Fezzik played by Andre The Giant - 7' tall, 500 lbs.
vs
Westley - a normalsized Man In Black.
Fezzik: I just figured why you give me so much trouble.
[squashed against a rock]
... do you think?
Fezzik : Well, I haven't fought one person for so long. I've been specialized in groups, battling gangs for local charities, that kind of thing.
Westley : Why should that make such a
[squashed painfully]
... difference?
Fezzik : You use different moves when you're fighting half a dozen people, than when you only have to be worried about one
[falls unconscious]
It's impossible to learn to learn to win a group sprint by yourself...
It's hard to ride single track with someone much slower...
No one can figure out how to draft riding alone...
... as the giant said, You use different moves.
I remember the first time a saw my friend in real cycling shorts. Lycra. Not just any short, they were red.
Outrageous I thought.
And held up by suspenders!
Now I wouldn't dream of heading out for a ride with anything but a supremely designed bib like this:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/black-19-team-pro-bib
100% Italian fabric. An anatomical chamois with multidensity foam. Printed, but and sewn in our own California factory.
---
164.2 lbs
nada
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3103441547
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
MY SCREWYOU FUND
Feb 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT A SCREWYOU FUND IS... welllllllll junior, it’s enough cash to go at least 6 months without a check. And, it equals confidence.
There are other types of screwyou funds.
When - waywayway back when - I was single, I strove to have a number of options... ya know, just in case things went off the rails at a socially inconvenient time. (Easy there, it’s a figure of speech. Not literal)
We, you and me, we have fitness screwyou funds...
... and I'm making a withdrawal.
No riding the next five or six days.
Starting this morning... skied for the first time in a coupla decades, you know a board for each foot vs a snowboard - which I've done less and less.
My nubby bikerlegs vs my college girl's dancerskierlegs...
... it was pretty even until around 330pm. We'd been going straight through, old school on nothing but Snickers bars.
Finally...
Dad, I'm tired.
I feel great.
Last run?
Up to you.
Truly a wonderful DaddyDaughter Valentine's Day. Such fun to catch up with her on life. I'm feeling quite blessed to enjoy a day like today.
... and that’s how to use the fitness screwyou fund.
Of course, sometimes you want to unleash your screwyou fitness in the heat of battle and might be looking for a little inspiration.
Personally, I always feel a little more ready to battle on the bike when I don these camo socks
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-socks/products/camo-sock-sublimated
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-socks/products/camo-sock-sublimated
$15.99 and they'll be on your doorstep in a couple of days.
---
unknown lbs
nada
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3099831660
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
PAYSHUNCE
Feb 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT’S CALLED PAYSHUNCE FOR A REASON
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT, WAIT, WAIT... the overhead view of a Peter Sagan sprint is always my favorite.
Man can he wait.
The barreling peloton screams into the final Kms and he’s miles back.
Payshunt.
One time, some cat put together a bunch of different on onbike camera views of a Sagan sprint. Switching from front view to back view and back as he roared...
... accelerating as the rest were detonating...
... which is why he’s payd the big bucks.
Payshunce is a superpower.
Use it, or lose.
Even going after a PR, which can require the greatest payshunce of all. Because the right PR will demand our very best.
In case you need a daily reminder
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prsrule
And if you use promo code PRSRULE, it's in your hands for a paltry 18 bones.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prsrule
I believe in you!
---
164.2 lbs
nada
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3096630631
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
A WINNING FORMULA
Feb 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IF IT'S TO BE, it's up to ______.
If it's really up to me, then I better take it for reals.
That's why every year I put the big hairy audacious goals (BHAG) out there, to inspire me to carve the time I need to be ready on the big day. Things like PRing Leadville last year, or going to Nationals this year.
Really big.
Impossible.
The result is even on the days I don't wanna, the cold days, the booked solid days, the dark days, the rain days... I get out and ride.
Yes, of course part of the plan is to be a badass on the given day and slay my BHAG... but...
... the bigger part of the plan...
... the sneaky part...
... is the daily result: a healthier, happier, immensely more productive me.
It's a simple system, and it yields undeniable results.
We get really granular on the system with the PEDALposse, where we share what's working and what's not.
Join us!
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
Join us before the price goes up in March.
How much? I dunno... but, can't be giving it away fo' evah.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
_____
164.4 lbs
legs n shoulders
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3094056015 <- snagged a KOM back - not that it matters. Right?
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
JUMP RIGHT IN
Feb 11, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE PLACES PEOPLE REALLY SUFFER ON A ROAD RIDE is when the group accelerates time after time.
I was reminded of this on today's ride... and the exercise I do at home to prep for days like today.
It was hellawindy.
30mph gusts.
Hella.
To make matters worse, it was the first week back splitting our little legripper into an A and a B ride. Leaving just a handful of us to slice the wind together on the A loop.
Our rotation started smooth enough, but after about 15 minutes of really drilling it things started to fall apart. The discrepancies in power between riders became evident, as stronger riders pulled hard and long and weaker riders clogged the front often unable to even pull through for a millisecond.
So, I have this little routine I do a few times a week. It may or may not be helpful at all... but, it's kinda hard which is always good for building confidence.
It's simple.
Requires no tools.
And, probably doable in your own home.
Remember, I am not a doctor nor any kind of certified anything. Do not do this if you are timid, unsure or a total klutz... though, if you think you'll fall please take video and post for the entertainment value.
Are ya ready?
Stand flatfooted at the bottom of a set of stairs and jump up 3 at a time.
Probably best to start at 2 at a time... and I've had limited success jumping 4 at a time. Repeat until failure (can't do more).
That's it.
Please, please, please be careful... and remember you're on your own.
Advice given.
Here's another piece of advice... not for you, hopefully. But, something you might want to share with a friend.
You should probably get a RaceDay Bag™.
Why?
Because you're always wondering where your gear is.
No I'm not.
Then, why are you asking to borrow my extra glasses?
I guess that could be advice for you too... friends don't let friends show up unprepared - especially if they don't want to loan their stuff.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-bags
Remind them to use promo code SAVE10.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-bags
---
165.4 lbs
push ups.
6.8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3091073638
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
DON'T BELIEVE ME
Feb 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S NOT THAT I'M A GUINEA PIG. I'm not. Once I find something that works, I stick with it.
It's not that I'm unwilling to change, I test things all the time.
What am I then?... a dude has cracked the code on a lot of what it takes to go fast on a bike.
I could force a bunch of my results down your throat, like the fact I've been a national champion twice.
But where's the fun in that?
What's fun for me is when a cat like DH asks a question like this...
What kind of electrolytes do you use/ sell?
And I reply...
Here’s what I use: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/electrolytes
I was in a hurry and should have added more... DH, I hope you're reading:
For all racing/hard training I strive for 300 calories per hour.
Road/Gravel, I like 2 scoops of GQ6 in my bottles, and another 100 calories via Honey Stinger Waffles or Chews.
MTB, I get all my calories through the bottle if it's a short XC race... the flavor can be a bit strong, but the racing is so intense I find it impossible to eat. A epic event like Leadville I'll eat more like the roadie above.
For adventures, I go with 1-1.5 scoops per bottle and eat as much as I feel like.
For recover rides, pretty much just water.
The other product on that link Salt Stick chews... and my hot tip for taking those is something I'll be sharing with the PEDALposse...
... check it out: https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
We're just launching the PEDALposse, I should let you know the price is going up soon.
_____
163.8 lbs
50 pull ups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3089585174
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
NO SUCH THING AS BAD TRAINING?
Feb 09, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S ONLY 1 KIND OF BAD TRAINING DAY...
It's not fell and got a booboo,
Not rode too hard,
Nor rode too easy,
Not gotta a flat,
Not had to cut 'er short,
Not no one else could go,
Not got stuck in the rain,
Not lost Zwifting,
Nor any kind of weatherforced trainertime,
Not resting, if that was your plan...
... the only way, is to not train.
Today I rested, according to plan, and took a walk along the beach.
It also rained, and I loved that. The sinisterside of me relished the thought of the locals who'd planned a big day staying off the bike.
I hope that wasn't you... but, if it was maybe you just needed an extraawesome windandwater resistant KOM jacket?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/komglove
If that's the case, and you're the patient type, then I'd like to make you one of these awesome jackets.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/komglove
And we'll throw in a pair of these gloves for free when you use this promo code: KOMGLOVE.
Go here:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/komglove
Use this:
KOMGLOVE
Who loves ya?
---
163.8 lbs
Stretching
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3086679887
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
GOT THAT RIGHT
Feb 08, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S 650AM, SUB-40 DEGREES, FOGGY AND WET... I'm smartly outfitted in what some might consider pajamas. I'm also late. Going full gas. Railing the turns. Jumping curbs. Shortcutting through ShoreCliffsElementary.
If I don't catch the crew at 705, I'm... How do you say in this country?... Ehscrewed!... chasing 20+ miles, just to catch the even faster group.
So started the first 70 miles of my ride... of which I felt absolutely fantastic.
I'd woken up with pleeennnnnty of time. PLENTY!. 530AM. But, I was so groggy I completely lost track.
There was one thing I did right. I got that darn PR Lotion on, and thick. No, this is not a commercial for that magical potion... but, it is a tiny lesson for me to check the source.
Last night I was skimming YouTube and noticed I had a few notifications. One was from Tony and it was a nasty review on my review of said lotion. It really bugged me, because I have shared the product with so many people and all results are 2thumbsup. I tossed and turned all night, which is probably why I woke so early. Then I had this genius idea...
... is he even a customer of ours?
No.
I'll leave it at that.
Anyway, that first 70 was pretty magical. I felt really good.
There's a longcut on the ride called Old Mojeska. It's a real kick in the teeth, coming after a lot of climbing. Few do it, though I sell the hell out of it any time I do the ride. It's very, very steep.
It's smack in the middle of a 17.25 miles stretch with 2000' of climbing, called RR-Old Moj-Silverado.
I knew I was going good, and I'd done my best to surf the fast guys to the longcut. Most of them went straight to regroup at the big oak tree. I turned right with 2 bravecourageous souls. We hit it as best we could, dropped down the other side... little Rayan, can't weigh more than 110 lbs, struggled to keep up on the decent. We came around the corner, saw the resting group taking a smoke break... and I dieseled on.
They eventually caught me, and we worked hard to finish the last big climb of the ride.
I PR'd it!
But I don't want you think this is a commercial for PR Lotion... because there's a tiny lesson for you my friend.
All that climbing?... I felt strong and connected.
So get if you haven't already drop and give me 20!... seriously, do your push ups and pull ups.
Because even if you do succumb to my Jedi marketing tricks and in a moment of weakness purchase PR Lotion...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prs-rule
... you're still going to be a weakling riding around looking like a T-Rex... and we can't have that can we?!
Friends don't let friends ride weak.
Usually I insert some sort of promo code to go along with blatant sales pitch... but this wasn't blatant, it was just me telling it like it is.
You know what though? I really like telling it like it is... if you buy the lotion this t-shirt will ship free - you just need to purchase them both and apply this code: PRsRULE
We do a lot that tellingitlikeitis stuff here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
Oh, I forgot to tell you how long and lonely the last 35 miles were of the ride...
They weren't!... because I fueled up, in remembrance of our Hawaiian Nana.
---
165 lbs
Just stretching today
6 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3083723694
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
I NEEDED A DAY LIKE TODAY
Feb 07, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MY SWEET, SWEET MOTHER-IN-LAW passed away last night. It was overdue, but we will still miss her uplifting spirit.
I rode alone, mistyeyed and laughingtomyself... all the emotions, reflecting on her influence in our family's lives. These are the rides we all need from time to time, and they're best solo...
... stopping along the way.
---
Good things happened all day long, credit to her.
Scott called to say he'd received 2 bags... one should have gone to Alvin... which was great because Alvin called to say he couldn't track his order. They live nearishby each other.
Nancy and Neal joined the PEDALposse.
Two new teams took the time to email me and let me know how lovely it is to work with designer Rocky.
... and Shane reminded me that he and Abbey and friends are coming over tonight to watch Abbey dominate on Ellen's Game of Games - it's finally airing.
As I wind down the day, I'm feeling very blessed to have known a great lady... her gravelvoiced husband parted long ago and I'm reminded of Johnny Cash's rendition of In My Life.
---
... a while back, she told us a new story...
I used to sunbathe in the nude on top of our house.
No!
Yes, I was always worried Momma would catch me.
Such a Wild Child!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
If you're feeling a little wild, this is a pretty good place to start
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
If you've never heard this version Johnny recorded it just after June passed... it's an old Beatles song.
164.4 lbs
180 push ups
6 sleepless hours
https://www.strava.com/activities/3079938325
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
HACKS FOR HACKS
Feb 06, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HATE DOING THE DISHES, and I hate doing pull ups. Taken individually, they go straight to the back of the procrastination line.
So, how did I do 50 pull ups today?
Before I get there, let me share a few of the countless benefits to doing pull ups.
Posture.
Yep, you my deskboundstaringatglass friend will experience better posture doing pull ups. I'm not sure if it's the actual pull ups or just the confidence one gets by being a badass pullupper.
Another...
Climbing powerfully on the bike.
No more sitting back down in defeat after 2 pedal strokes - especially effective when combined with push ups.
More...
Sprinting speedily.
Grab those bars and feel a bigbrawnyconnection as you unleash your mighty fury.
Back to my hack...
1. Have a pull up at home, mine is upstairs jammed between a bathroom door.
2. Do as many as you can.
3. Unload some dishes.
Repeat until dishes are done and body is smoked.
Here's my breakdown - switching between palms out and palms in.
9-7-5-5-4-4-3-4-2-3-2-2-1 50
All that may sound silly,
or maybe you're just so dedicated already,
possibly you're in love with the T-rex look of many cyclists...
... but if any of that resonates, you really ought to check out the PEDALposse.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
But, before you click over there...
My friend BC shot me a text: What's the posse all about?
Honestly, I'm not sure.
Should I join?
No.
Now why wouldn't a want a longtime, raploving pal like BC to join? For the simple reason he's not sure. If you're not sure, don't even hover over the link...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
... might accidentally click it, but if you're sure you're down for something different then join us.
---
163.8 lbs
50 pull ups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3078456037
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
CONFI-DENSE.
Feb 05, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A CERTAIN MISPLACED CONFIDENCE one can get with a high level of fitness. I'm unsure as to whether it's healthy or not... I mean it is healthy, well healthy related... I guess it's just ego.
Before you go spiritualbuddhamystic on me... just admit it... you feel it too.
For instance, I remember - distinctly remember - when all the ladies were fawning over my massivefootballstar friend thinking to myself... Yeah, he's cool and has big manly muscles but ladies I can drop him any time I want on a bike.
Or, the time I compared myself to myself to Mike Tyson... Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth/I unleash my sprint.
One of my favorites was the time young Miles joined us on the Saturday Hour of Power... he was quite sure he'd stick it to us and I was thinking... you're sizing us up based on age and you're about to get a lesson in cardiokungfu bikestyle.
Confidence is one of Miles great traits.
I remember how confident he was that within no time he'd pay me back on the bike - which he did, and I loved. Better, I remember how confident he was that he'd overcome his visual challenges and turn them into a plus thereby pursuing his dream as part of the US Navy.
It's the kind of confidence that only comes with miles on a bike, or time spent on any endeavor.
The more dense the training, the more dense the the results...ConfiDense.
Of course another definition of dense is stupid, and yes I know it's stupid to compare myself to others... I still do it more than I care to admit.
Want more confidense?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
You don't even have to wear this shirt to gain confidense... just having it your drawer and seeing it is magical.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
---
163.8 lbs
arms/shoulders/legs
8 hours sleep
no time to ride
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
WE NEVER DETOUR
Feb 04, 2020
by TODD BROWN
PART OF THE SECRET SAUCE OF A STANDING GROUP RIDE is always riding the same course. We never detour, never wait and always start on time.
But, not today.
Our detour wasn't to escape the wind, we'd have slept in if we wanted to escape it... and let the record show, a wholelotta the gang slept in... those that were up for the challenge know that sometimes it's hellawindy in a race and a good thing to practice...
... and the rest of us, me especially, were there to say farewell to one of our ride's OGs, Backpack Kevin.
Most of the current generation don't even know him.
Don't know he was one of the truly elite local MTB racers in the 90's.
Don't know he used to join us on his work commute, with a loaded back pack and ride us off his wheel.
Don't know his kindness and always happy outlook.
Jim brought a cake, I brought a TMWC tshirt, the rest of the guys brought their love...
... and that's what I cherish about this little social ride, the love.
If you want to share the spirit of this ride, check out this year's kit
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/our-sample-team-store
If you have a ride of your own and want to appropriate this design, we're down for that too...
For a few days, you can save 20% with this code TEAMTMWCCODE
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/our-sample-team-store
---
164.8
173 Push Ups
6.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/3071370443
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
SUPERBOWLED
Feb 03, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S NO WAY I COULD WATCH THE SUPERBOWL without chips 'n Surfergirl's guac. And things would have been ok if I'd stopped there. Even better if I hadn't prepped my gord with giant apple fritter to get things started. But I Suiperbowled myself all dawgawn day... topping it off with bowls of ChicBoomPop with every KC touchdown, such was the state of my handtomoutheyesonscreen coordination.
How much did I pack on?
The better question is how quick can I pack it off?
Before I get to that... I checked in with Littlepants on her progress with the Whole30 diet.
How's that working?
I quit.
Really, why?
I read a book that dieting isn't a healthy relationship to food.
So now what?
Now I listen to my body.
No help from my college kid.
So... let me be completely honest - I'm always honest with ya, just feels extra honest to say that - the only reason I know that poundage and more is coming off is because I just looked at the calendar...
... and in 7 weeks, it's on!
... 7 weeks is all it takes.
... 7 dedicated weeks
... focused on beating my nemesis!
Now, before ya go say... But, Diesel you said PRs were better than KOMs!...
... I hear ya, and that's true, but for me, and possibly for you, it's a lot more juicy packing my own can of whoopass to beat a guy I know I have almost no chance of beating...
... in fact, it would be a complete miracle if I was within a mile, a mountain bike mile - which is a lot longer than a gravel mile and hellalonger than a road mile - of this cat, such is his godgiventalent and monklikededication...
... so I began this morning, with decent ride on my MTB... because it's time to go all in training the position... and I followed up tonight with pull ups till failure, which I'm doing between paragraphs here... and I'll keep doing it until that deadly day when I shall spring on said unsuspectingnemesis my viciousnastyhomemade can of whoopass..
... sure I could listen to my body like a sweet college kid,
or I can look at the calendar like the ragingdiesel I plan to be...
- here ends another episode of Crazytalk with TheOldDiesel
In honor of such crazytalk, I'm gonna be wearing this tshirt all the time
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
You know the drill, for a mere twenty bones you too can rock crazytalk
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
---
167
50 pull ups
7.75 hrs restless, tossnturn, atetoomuch sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3068563492
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
LONE.
Feb 02, 2020
by TODD BROWN
A FEW CARS AHEAD A LONE RIDER WAIT FOR THE GREEN. USACyclng redwhiteandblue jersey, USACycling black shorts.
Is it a real racer?
Can't tell, looks like an oldish bike and wheels.
Sure looks lean.
Might be a real one.
The rider shot out Supermanlike, leaving now doubt. We eased by a lane over, too far to yell...
... Hey Andrew!
Yep, 98% sure that was Andrew Vollmer. Known him since he was a stringbean under a giant helmet racing NICA.
I'd heard he and his friend Kevin Vermaerke were in town training. Closing in on 20, they're both working hard to make it.
Fitting that this week I'd finally gotten around to starting PhilTheThrill Gaimon's book, Pro Cycling On $10 A Day.
If you've ever wondered what kind of life these young pros are living, I highly recommend the book. Phil is a great story teller... sharing tidbits of truth and wisdom mixed with background info on many riders you may have heard of.
... I tried to write that paragraph above for about 10 minutes... let me try one more time... it's a helluva entertaining book for bike racing nuts like myself.
Which brings me back to young Andrew, training alone... Phil asks the question in his book, What is it about bike racing and loner weirdos?... my answer, maybe that's part of the superpower all racers have... being okay enough with ourselves to enjoy being alone?
Maybe we enjoy the peace?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child/products/peace-speed-jersey-short-sleeve
I know I enjoy the peace I find logging solo, soulful miles... if you're the same you might enjoy them more clad in this jersey or it's wild child fraternal twin.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child/products/peace-speed-jersey-short-sleeve
Just for this week, we'll say buy the Peace or Wild Child Jersey, get the socks free use promo code: WILDPEACE
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child/products/wild-child-sublimated-sock
---
165.2
0
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3067040915
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
'IM N 'IS BIKE ARE MOUNTAINBRED
Feb 01, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOMEWHERE ALONG THE TRAIL MY SOULBROTHER PETE AND I misappropriated a line from The Man From Snow River. There's a scene where the young buckaroo cowboy shows up the villains, and the allknowing wise old man says...
'Im n 'is 'orse are mountainbred.
Any time we raced, any time we rode on the edge of oblivion, we'd pump up with our best 'strailyun accents
'Im n 'is bike are mountainbred.
But, it was true.
We were mountainbred.
It was all we rode.
At the time, I didn't even own a road bike. And it showed.
Everything was second nature.... jumping, skidding, turning, no-braking, ridiculous speed... it was easy, flowy and relaxed...
... and the climbing, oh lordy, the climbing was effortless.
But that was then, and today was... painful.
The first mile or 2 of our 9mile3000foot time trial climb was discouraging. The position felt off. The power, limited. It was just a grind. Not fun. It had been too long.
... what am I thinking proclaiming that this is going to be a mountain bike year?...
But, a funny thing happened on the way to the top... as Chris and I climbed and chatted about "life"...
... I started to feel better, I settled in, found my groove, and got a glimpse of that mountainbredness.
... the last 2 miles were exquisitely awful, perfectly terrible... a sensational sensation, confirming this very real fact...
... there is betterness with specialization, maybe not greatness, but clearly to get a lot better it takes a lot more focus.
The great Eddy Merckx encouraged piles of miles, to that I add -> on the bike you'll be racing... only then will it all become second nature, only then will I once again be mountainbred.
---
One thing I've always loved from my original MTB days is a superlite fullfinger glove... you know the kind you can wear even on a hot day, the kind that are so thin you forget your wearing a glove at all...
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves
I know we shouldcould and onedaymight increase the price on these by 50%, but until then you can get 'em delivered for less than 20 bones.
Crazy, I know.
---
164.8
0
6.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3063107998/segments/75976170969
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
I QUIVER
Jan 31, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I COULD BARELY HOLD MY PHONE. My arm was quivering. My chest was too.
What was wrong?
Should I be concerned?
... no.
I was holding the phone at just the right angle to activate the muscles I'd thrashed an hour earlier doing push ups to failure.
160 of 'em, in this order:
36-21-17-12-12-9-8-7-7-6-5-4-5-5-5-4-3–160
... all because Jeff Kabush said you'll never win a mountain bike race if you can't do 50 push ups in a row.
I'm getting closer, because Jeff inspired me...
You know what else is inspsiring?
Riding on a well organized team... if you're on a team, and you need a new canopy or just a new top... the pro canopy special is going, reply to this and we'll get cracking.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/canopies-flags
---
165.2
160 pushups
7.25 hrs sleep
no time to ride : (
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
PEAK. PERFORMANCE.
Jan 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
RECENTLY I WAS TALKING WITH MY BUDDY WHO IS AN UP AND COMER IN HIS FIELD OF WORK.
How do you do it, perform so well?
I get a lot of rest, plenty exercise, and purposefully relax my brain.
And...
And that's how I can be at my peak at for the few truly important hours of work...
Ah... peak performance, not constant performance.
Yes... exactly!
Makes sense.
Can't always be hammering on the bike. Everyday can't be all out. Not all rides, should be races.
One thing I do on my non-peak days to improve my speed is give my drivetrain a some love with these 2 products: Wend to clean, Smoove to lube.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-care
Takes just a couple of minutes, and makes a world of difference. You'll easily gain 300 watts/kilo... well, maybe not that much... but when you hear that chain spin, you'll be confident in your ability to be a silent assassin.
If you're ready to kill it on the next ride, click here...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-care
... they won't ship free, for a mere 30 bones, forever...
... and remember, Peak performance, not constant performance.
---
165.2
46 pull ups
7.25 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3058132343
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
THE WHEELIE THAT KEEPS ON GIVING
Jan 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
EVERY 20 YEARS OR SO I'M REMINDED of my first real commitment to flying through the air on two wheels.
There a I was, an immortal 9yearold in the back yard. Tossed the shovel, ready to test my foot-high jump.
Got up to speed,
Got airborne,
Yanked hard on the bars.
Too hard.
Smacked my mouth.
Busted my lip and my new front tooth.
My uncle, the dentist, glued on a replacement for what I'd cracked off. It looked terrible, but I didn't care.
At 14, the parents upgraded me. New dentist shaved what remained and slid over a poorly matched cap. I didn't care.
Couple of decades later a better matched cap, which finally gave out a few months ago.
Got my new, cap this week.
Sometimes I wonder if I'd not knocked that chunk of tooth off...
or if I'd not crashed my BMX bike, ripping the skin to my knee cap...
or if I hadn't spent my afternoons delivering 50 lbs of magazines by bike...
If hadn't had those hardships and traumas, would I have appreciated all the highs those two-wheelers delivered...
... would I still be hooked?
It's hard to know, just like it's hard to know why people join the PEDALposse...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
... maybe you ought to check it out?
---
163.8
Shoulders/Legs
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3054022297
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
THAT TIME I STARED DOWN A MOUNTAIN LION
Jan 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
JUST OVER 16 YEARS AGO HALF OF OUR NATIONAL FOREST BURNED DOWN. The result was a doubling overnight of the mountain lion population in livable habitat.
Lions roamed the local golf course, peering at playing children.
I continued to do long rides alone in the local mountains. Sure I'd see a big cat or two, but always from behind... they are generally very shy.
One November afternoon, I was racing the sun back to civilization. While dismounting to wiggle through a fence line, I noticed a coyote up ahead. Thought nothing of it. It was about 1/4 mile ahead on the only fire road leading home.
Coming around a bend I could see it loping down the trail and around another turn.
Still didn't bother me.
At the bottom of a little climb I thought I might have seen it.
Closer.
Wierd, 'must not know I'm here.
Getting near the top, I passed the first single track and though it was a fun one I wanted to go another half mile to the better, faster trail.
I hit the brakes.
The "coyote" turned sideways, perpendicular to me.
Fifteen feet away, it seemed to cover the width of the road. Small head on end, big paws underneath, powerful haunches poised to pounce, and the longlonglong tail.
Eyeballs to eyeballs...
... LION.
In a split second I did everything they tell ya not to do.
Turned my bike around,
back to that single track,
up short, steep hill in the big ring,
skidding at the top to make the turn
flying over every rock and rut to safety.
Then I took a breath and thanked God.
A few months later I had an even more bizarre and tragic encounter. I'll tell ya that another day...
... rest assured I went back to that corner and hit that short hill many, many times and never, ever had the need to brake at the top to make the turn.
Maybe if I'd been wearing these camo socks he wouldn't have seen me...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/camo-sock-sublimated
https://pedalindustries.com/products/camo-sock-sublimated
Of course, that's plain sillytalk... but this promo code isn't SOCKSTODAY. Use it while supplies last.
---
164
200 push ups
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3051122304
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
THUMBSUCKERS!
Jan 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M PROBABLY MANGLING THIS QUOTE, but I like the idea enough that I just gotta share it. And it starts with shares. Specifically, Warren Buffet's advice against thumb-sucking when it comes to buying shares. It goes like this...
If you are fully capable of doing X, do it... don't be a thumb-sucker!
Which I take to mean... if I've got good health, and I don't maximize it in this incredible moment in human history, in this free country... well, I'd be a thumb-sucker.
I reckon that's why I like to have at least one A race a year. Something to really focus on for 6-8 weeks prior, and also keep me motivated to have great overall health the balance of the year.
... as time flies by, I want to fly with it - fast as I can,
so I rise with the sun,
every day,
and say,
Let's go.
Sometimes that means driving to a beautiful climb, and when I do that I bust out the world famous changing poncho
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
There's no better way to change in public... and there's no better time than right now to order with this promo code: CHANGEINSTYLE
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
---
163.4ish
38 pull ups
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3048224741
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
THE ONE TIME IT PAID TO READ THE BIBLE
Jan 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MOST RACES HAVE A RACE BIBLE. Most racers skim it, figuring beentheredonethat. Traveling home today I was reminded of the one time it really paid to read the race bible - it was only a paragraph or two.
I wondered if I could find the old crit course. It had only been a hundred or so years since I'd raced it.
It was in Goleta off a road with a funny name.
Glenn Annie Road... That must be it.
Yep.
Found it easy.
The site of my favorite road victory.
All because I understood the format and my breakaway companion did not.
Win And Out
What that meant was the first person across the line won, then everybody else did another lap racing for 2nd, and so on down 5 places.
The three of us drove up, Surfergirl with new baby Trev came to watch. I was pretty sure this was going to be one of my last serious races, and I really wanted to win so I'd have the points to upgrade to Cat 2.
We met up with Andy and Lisa and baby Jasmine... and I'm pretty sure Andy did his own upgrading in a different race.
Fun times.
Back to the winning... these were the days of 100 strong fields and lots and lots spectators. LeMond was winning TdFs, 7-11 pro team was the American powerhouse, and bike racing on the road was the big thing.
Enough drama for ya?...
Table set.
So there we were, flying around this loop with a number of bends and only one 90 degree turn. A .7 mile loop - I measured it today.
It was easy to get out of site if you could get away.
It was also easy to get shuffled to the back, and the train was so long it nearly stretched the entire straightaway.
There were lots of preems (prizes for first racer on a random lap) to keep the pace high.
I was watching the lap counter, prepping to be in the right spot for the first sprint... the one for 1st.
With 2 laps to go, they gave out a $50 preem and this kid just goes for it... and I roll the dice.
I bank on the field not chasing because they'll want to save it for the sprint, and I put all my money on the other kid wanting the fifty bones.
Honestly, I'm not sure if I've ever ridden faster or smarter in my life... we worked really hard together and as we came around the bend to sprint for the money...
... I faked like I had nothing left and let him pull long and hard for his prize...
... he was gassed, done...
... I looked back, could see I had about 10 seconds and pinned it...
... to this day I remember looking at my Polar (a brand long gone)...
... 207 beats a minute... I felt nothing, no pain, I wasn't even breathing... it was amazing...
... my favorite win, ever, all because I took the time to read the bible...
Now, before you get all preachy on my and say Diesel you should always read the Bible... just know I haven't raced without a thorough reading in a long time.
Which is easy, because I love reading and learning and sharing...
One of the places where we share what we learn is at the PEDALposse, and if you're into that sorta thing ya oughta check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
A few more pics - Andy hasn't changed... and come to think of it, my hair is back to that style just dyed grayish
lots of easy bends... it was such a great course. fast and safe.
---
164ish (guess)
no work out
8.2 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3046482524
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
HONEST OFFICER, I HAD NO IDEA...
Jan 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WHEN YOU LOOK DOWN AND YOUR COMPUTER INDICATES 170 bpm, and you're feeling no pain... it can mean a couple of things:
If you're barely moving, you're probably sick... go home, straight to bed, take your helmet off.
If you're really ripping, you're probably on a good day... try and keep your emotions in check, especially if it's early in the race. Things can, and probably will, change.
Or...
... before we get to that, let me just cut to the chase.
There is one race around here that is tailormade for me... just enough climbing to hurt the pure sprinters, a longfalseflatdecent to discourage the pure climbers, and a 2 minute power climb to the finish.
The last 3 years, it's be an A race for me and I've had magical days, but this year's plan is for MTB and I almost skipped it.
I'm glad I didn't.
A slew of really good racers aged up, and we had a good-sized group of 40 or so. There was lots of probing and attacking. I covered a few, until I started to feel some cramping coming on.
About 20 of us came into the final 2 minute climb, and I managed to get my self into perfect position on the wheel of last years' winner who was on the wheel of the best climber around. 1-2-3.
We ripped up the bottom, shed everybody and hit the flat before the final rise. It's all big ring, and fast.
At this point my cramps hit hard and my legs seized up.
150 meters to go.
1st and 2nd were gone.
Ya know the feeling when there's nothing in the legs and you're just begging them to turn over. Pleading. On hands and knees... and they just don't want to go
I looked back... the guys were coming hard... I looked down... the legs were cramping hard... I looked back... they're closer... I looked up... the line was farther away... I sputtered across the line.
3rd.
So yeah, the 170 no pain... I no idea I'd be on a fine day..
Once the delirium was gone, I pulled up Strava... had to know, were we fast?
The data show we hit the bottom just as hard as last year, 1:14... but this year I had nothing for the sprint.
The difference, the prep.
But, the only reason I got up that first section so darn fast and was still able to hang on for a podium...
... I believe...
... in my heart of hearts...
... was PR Lotion... I really do believe that.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/amp-pr-lotion
Have you tried it yet?
If not, please do... it's a game changer. We ship it for free, and just for the next few days, you can use this code AMPSAVE10. Trust me on this.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/amp-pr-lotion
Go get some.
---
164 (guess)
no work out
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3043071623
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
LIFE JAMMED INTO 44 MILES.
Jan 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'VE BEEN THINKING HOW RACING IS A SNAPSHOT OF LIFE. Probably because tomorrow is the first race of the year and I'll be on this emotional rollercoaster....
I'm so happy to be here.
I feel great.
There's my friends.
That cat looks dangerous.
Ugh, they're going so fast.
Damn, this hurts.
What was I thinking?
I could quit right now.
Phew, I survived that.
Big hill ahead!
Ouch, ouch, ouch.
I wanna quit.
Nice downhill.
Wow, near miss there
Yes, a tailwind.
I hope this never ends...
I feel great.
There's my friends.
That cat looks dangerous.
Ugh, they're going so fast.
Damn, this hurts.
What was I thinking?
I could quit right now.
Phew, I survived that.
Big hill ahead!
Ouch, ouch, ouch.
I wanna quit.
Nice downhill.
Wow, near miss there
Yes, a tailwind.
I hope this never ends...
Maybe that's why I like racing so much... it's one reincarnation after another, each with a chance of doing a little better...
...kinda like chasing PRs, which inmybiased opinion is way cooler than a KOM.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prsrule
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prsrule
If you're into superduper soft t-shirts, designed to fit athletes who know the PR code, well you might want to use promo code PRsRULE and t-shirt delivered to you for $18.
That's right... get this incredible warrior t-shirt delivered for $18 with promo code PRsRULE... code expires 1/28/2020.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prsrule
---
163.2
no work out
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3039164791
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
A QUICKIE
Jan 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
QUICKIES... we do custom bags for a team called Getting It In Cyclists. I like that, because sometimes I'm squeezed for time but I still get the ride in.
Like today.
I knew I had a bunch a stuff to do, and I knew I wanted to loosen up the legs before the first race of the year on Saturday.
Laid out my stuff last night.
Feet never touched the floor, right into the socks.
Slipped on the clothes, slipped out the door.
Back in 90 min.
Outta the shower before Freddie could cry the final line...
'Cause we are the champions
... and champions figure out a way to get it in.
Speaking of getting in... a lot of my pals got into Leadville via the lottery this week. Which reminded me I need to finish my book...
How To Win The Leadville Trail 100 MTB Race
The book covers the many secrets I've squirreled away after 6 successful BigBeltBuckle finishes.
It's the kind of read the Posse will get just for being part of the Posse.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
_____
163
100 pushups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3036739174
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
OPP (other people's power) Pt. 2
Jan 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE COROLLARY TO YESTERDAY'S MESSAGE, using OPP (Other People's Power) to coast across the finish line first, is UFP.
Attention wheelsuckers...
Racing using OPP takes great patience because early on we're all high as kites on adrenaline, caffeine, and a whopping emotional load of manifeelgreat.
It's an art to hold back your inner Kraken.
For this reason, you must calm yourself and do all you can to look like idontgotit.
Got that?
That's racing... and just one idea on how to win. It is not wheelsucking. I mean it is, but it's purposeful.
Now the corollary, UFP and where to get it.
UFP is Up Front Power...
... and you get it by getting your buns to the front of the group...
... often.
... until it burns.
... and you wanna quit.
... then, you'll have UFP, which is what you're going to need to lead across the finish line when it truly counts.
Train up front,
Race smart.
If you're into racing smart, ya really ought to check this out
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
_____
164.8 lbs
Legs/Shoulders
7 hours sleep
no ride
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
OPP (OTHER PEOPLE'S POWER)
Jan 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WE ALL KNOW THE POWER OF O.P.M., other people's money. Some of us know about Other People's Power. Fewer know how to harness its magic.
On Saturday, I'll be racing. Most likely a road race, though the call of the dirt is strong....
My mobile mechanic stopped by last week. It had been a while. Before he got started, I could see this catatethebird smile... he couldn't contain himself...
I took you advice.
Uh... which advice?
About LoToJa?
Yeah, which part?
(I've given this kid so much advice... mainly because he listens.)
About not working.
Oh yeah... the old, Only lead across the finish line trick... and?
I won.
You won!
Yep.
This advice works exceptionally well at LoToJa - a 200 mile race across 3 states to Jackson Hole WY. It works because:
1. There are a lot of people who are all geeked up and can't control themselves, and they are more than willing lead for miles and miles.
2. See #1.
There's just no reason to get in their way.
You'd be a fool to steal their glory.
Let 'em have it...
... and for heck's sake, be the last one to lead (ie: win the darn thing!)
It's not the only way to win a race, but it's definitely a handy skill to have should the situation present itself. Just takes a fair amount of patience and fakery.
... I wonder if I'll be able to use it Saturday...
One thing I can use Saturday is my Wild Child Socks
https://pedalindustries.com/products/wild-child-sublimated-sock
If you're feeling wild, you might want to ship them to yourself for free with promo code: THEOLDDIESELFREESHIPPING... just do me a favor and only get the socks, well, unless you want something else to ship for free...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/wild-child-sublimated-sock
---
164.2
31 pull ups
6.75 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3031102395
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
BY NOW MOST PEOPLE HAVE GIVEN UP
Jan 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I JUST FINISHED THIS VERY USEFUL BOOK, it was agitating and illuminating right up to the end... when it went against everything I know about behavior. I'm not a doctor, but I to play one at PEDALindustries from time to time.
Book: Willpower is a super power.
Diesel: Willpower is useless, environment is the super power.
... we're heading into late January and most people have already been derailed from the New Year's resolutions...
Maybe if they had a few structures in place to support their goals they'd have a chance.
For example, and this is just me, if my goal is to be fast on my bike here are a few things that matter:
Weight.
If there's ice-cream within 100 yards, I'm eating it. Therefore, no ice-cream in the house.
Intensity.
By now most of you know I'm not a dosomeintervals guy, I'm a ridewithpeoplewhoarefaster guy... that's why I do our Tuesday morning "social" ride, because they beat the heck out of me every week... a beating I could never self-administer.
Rest.
I rest every Sunday, and I've been doing it for decades... consequently, training is not on my calendar and none of my pals even try to invite me.
Willpower is useless.
No one can babysit a cup cake without eventually devouring it.
Toss the cupcakes.
I'm guessing that's partly why y'all read the daily Diesel, because it reinforces your cycling environment.
One question I have is, are you ready to up your environment? If you are, click here...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
---
163.6
100 pushups
9.25 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3028216552
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
TIME. TO GO.
Jan 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MY CODER CALLED ME AT 8AM ON A WEEKDAY.
What's up?
You on a ride?
Yep.
You're so lucky.
No, I'm not.
Of course, that's false and true. I'm incredibly fortunate. Unbelievably.
He knows that.
I know that.
What was my coder doing calling me at 8am... all excited?
His time saving code was working beautifully.
I haven't yet finished Dan Kennedy's No BS Time Management, but the biggest take away so far... put a clock on every wall, don't let time slip by.
Which is profound to me.
Every single ride my bike computer is showing me my moving time...
... and that's all I care about. 20 miles with a headwind take a lot longer than 20 with no wind.
When I look at my weekly stats I'm looking at hours not miles.... most weeks I'm going for 10 hrs, but this week I wanted to get a little more in before I taper back next week prepping for Saturday's race.
When I plan my week, I carve out blocks of time... and riding is always blocked out.
Healthy Diesel = Lucky Diesel.
Back to that time saving code... we've automated much of the process to add personalization to RaceDay Bags. You can check it out on our stock designs here:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-raceday-bags/products/patriotic-raceday-bag
We'll be rolling out to all the team bags this week. If we haven't gotten to your team yet and you're ready to order please email help@pedalindustries.com.
Speaking or rolling out... be seen with 330 degrees of retinasearing illumination.
These lights sell out all the time, but we have a few left - I'm sure they'll be gone within a few hours of launching this.
... if you click the link you can see how much I car about your safety.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-mid-cobber-wrap-around-taillight
---
165.2
Rest day
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3022885991
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
RE-AL-ITTY CHECK
Jan 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A NICE BIKE LANE, with a road next to it.
This is a perfect morning for a long ride.
That rider is going to chat me up, and it'll be good.
Samples of my default filter... and not just with a helmet atop my dome. It's my reality, and it's nearly always correct... like today, nearly.
Up early, in the van, and hitting Swami's Long... a true leg ripper.
Made a new friend riding along the coast. Brad. He's stationed on Pendleton, and sporting a very expensive Trek Madone. Must be a higher up, I figure. Yep. Which means when he says The base has some sweet gravel roads I'll take you on, it will happen.
Things were going to plan.
It was a nice morning, chilly. But, sunny. And I was comfy and aero with the KOM jacket.
I knew it would be a longish ride, 80 or so miles. And it would be fast. And... I was counting on it being hard, with a very high potential of me getting left behind at some point.
Not multiple points.
That wasn't the reality I was looking for.
But there I was, dangling off the back as we roared into Elfin Forest... the back of the second group, ugh.
Not a good sign, as two more giant challenges lay waiting.
The big boys went left, to go "Long". Yes, yes, definitely signed up for this.
Lake Wolford's 2 mile climb should take me 10 minutes... not over 11, with me riding solo. Ugh X 2.
The final regroup at the store introduced me to Dave. He moved down from Toronto because his wife couldn't do another winter. 30 lbs later, he's a player on this ride, even though it was his first time.
I warned him... Dave, the next section is twisty, punchy, and very pretty. Pay attention. I warned myself too... Get it together Diesel, 30 miles to go... with a headwind the last 6. Buckle down!
Somehow, it was almost easy.
Made it no problem, putting in my fair share of pulls.
Perhaps we took it easy?
Not so, data shows we were flying.
Did that pep talk change my reality?
... something to think about.
Something else to think about would be, should I ride with a taillight at all times?
Answer, YES!
Which one?
Well, this is the one I love... 330 degrees of retinasearing power.
They're sold out all the time, but I got my hands on 10 for y'all..
...and if you click the link you can see how badly I want you to be seen.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-mid-cobber-wrap-around-taillight
---
163.6
23 pull ups
6.5 hrs sleep (no bueno)
https://www.strava.com/activities/3022885991
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
OBSESSION: THE EASY WAY
Jan 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S ONLY ONE THING I LOVE MORE THAN PERFECT RIDING WEATHER, and that's rotten riding weather. Because I know the rest of the world is warm and snuggly, while I'm out.
Obsession makes it so easy.
There's no decision.
Time is set aside.
Gear up.
Ride.
No motivation needed.
Yes, I heard the rain as I slept. Yes, the roads were wet. Yes, it was extra cold and dark. Hell yes, I geared up and got out... for the most part I had the roads and paths to myself.
Totally worth it.
Speaking of worth it, if you're into the kind of things we're into then...
... check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
---
163.6
85 push ups
7.3 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3019460450
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
FAILURE TO FAILURE
Jan 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'VE BEEN SLACKING LATELY... not goingtofailure-ing nearly enough.
At my home gym today, I just kinda wallowed along. Did the exercises until I was slightly uncomfortable.... couple of these, and a few of those.
I thought about my daily 20 pull up/60 push up thing and it occurred to me it was time to change it up.
Time to gotofailure.
For hecksake, the racing season starts next Saturday and I haven't ridden hard for months.
Sooooooo, whatdoesitallmean?
It means, Tuesdays and Saturdays are back on!
No more hiding in the back.
Get to the front.
Gotofailure.
Why not everyday?
Not productive.
What about my pull ups/push ups everyday?
Pull ups till failure Monday. Push ups till failure Tuesday. Leg stuff Wednesday. Pull ups till failure or surf Thursday. Push ups till failure Friday. If I can still walk after an epic ride, more leg stuff Saturday. Sundays? Rest.
What is failure? Well, it sure isn't one set and done. It means going till failure, resting and doing 40% of my previous set, till I can't do more.
On the bike failure? Riding up front like a boss. Attacking often. Getting dropped and chasing back on.
You know what Tom Watson, founder of IBM, said?
You want more success, fail more often.
One failure you don't ever want to have is showing up at the race or ride without all you gear, which is exactly why I created the RaceDay Bag.
This text from my buddy Scott cracked me up... straight from his team meeting.
I actually tested and created the PRO RaceDay bag for his triathlon team... but, he's been focused on kids for a few years and hadn't seen it.
And, I've been focused on creating something new. So, if you're into new things...
... check this out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse
---
164.4
Gym
7 hrs sleep
no ride today
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
THE ADVENTURE OF NEW
Jan 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
YESTERDAY I EYED A NEW TRAIL, connecting to a road I recently discovered. Figured it would lead to awesomeland... this morning I found out, and the whole time I was thinking how much I hate my friend B---.
Man I hate B---.
Diesel, do you really hate B---?
No, I detest him.
Really?
Can't stand his guts.
Why, if he's your friend?
Because he is always pushing me, showing me new ways to do things, and letting me suffer through it, laughing while I'm drowning, totally calling me out.
And that makes you hate him.
Hell yes it does.
But, he's your friend.
Yes, he's a real friend.
The first part of the trail was really, really, really steep.
Really, if it wasn't tacky this morning I doubt I would have cleaned it.
At the top, I oriented myself and went off to find a slew of new roads and paths... kinda like a good friend - pics below.
Mostly, I ride alone.
For the sanity, me thinks.
Nearly always I'm sneaking up on some runner or hiker or walker. I used to give a polite Hi There. But, I didn't always work. Then I'd do my loud whistle, which usually scared the heck out of 'em. Now, I just love my little bell.
You can get one for as little as $19 and change, shipped free.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-oi-bike-bell
If you're looking for some style and a classy way to pass, get one. Comes in lots of colors.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-oi-bike-bell
---
165
0/0
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3013759418
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
THEY HAD IT COMING
Jan 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
AS I RULE, I NEVER EVER "WIN" THE TUESDAY MORNING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS. This is directly due to the fact the guys and gals are a bunch of bloodsuckinggoodfornothingscoundrels! While I am a complete gentleman.
Ergo, my "attack" today had not a snowball's chance in hell.
Except... it was freezing.
Literally.
32 degrees.
You know what happens to a bunch of weatherwimpy Californians when it's cold?
The move slow.
Then slow down.
So there we were... freezin' our hands and feet off, barely moving up the steady climb, 5 miles from the finish line.
And I'm thinking Dawgawnit if we don't pick it up we might die out here.
Off I go, knowing those bloodsuckinggoodfornothingscoundrels would soon jump across, rest on my wheel, then leave me for frozen.
But, the gap kept growing.
Soon they were outta sight.
They were either feeling sorry for me as it had been forfreakingever since I won the day or they were too cold to care or I just had game today.
No matter what, there was a simple fact: at some point, they'd start charging.
And another simple fact: I wasn't waiting.
Beat 'em by 38.3 seconds.
I feel so bad.
To make it up to the guys who missed out today, I'm extending for a few more days the promo code cut off to order the kit we designed for our ride.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
Here's the code: TEAMTMWCCODE
It saves you 20% and expires soon.
Oh... almost forgot one last secret to crushing their hopes this morning... my legs were lathered up in PR Lotion... so let's do this:
Buy AMP PR lotion and save 30% on Brisker gloves. USE PROMO CODE BRISKPR.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pr-brisker
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pr-brisker
---
165.4
0/0
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3010925285
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
IS IT OKAY TO SAY THIS?
Jan 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT FEELS WRONG TO SAY... but, we have a bunch of badass ladies in the posse. It's true. And it's not just because they are fast and fierce... they have their own style, and I LOVE IT!
A thousand years ago, I'd look at the pro women times and figure that's about how fast I'd cover the same distance.
Surfergirl likes to remind me of the time I learned that wasn't exactly true... we were at the Napa World Cup and reigning champ Paula Pezzo rode by. At that point, I'd been riding the course at a leisurely pace with Surfergirl and girlfriends. When Paoula rode by I said...
Uh, I'm gonna speed up and see what course looks like at my pace.
Sure...
Yeah, you know gotta practice my moves...
Whatever...
So yeah, in fanboydork mode I started following those shiny gold bibs. I was totally on the limit as she gracefully slipped out of view.
Yeah, the course is pretty tricky, hard to find a good line...
Not as hard as the floor is going to be tonight
Anyway, today one of the ladies asked...
How come no Ladies version of the PRs Over KOMs t?
Cause I'm a self-centered idiot.
No you're not.
I know... I'm totally awesome, but I just don't think sometimes. So here ya go!
Love it! Thanks Diesel.
No prob, thanks for speaking up.
Ladies, this is the same getsofterthemoreyouwash cotton and the same cantfeeltheprint inks. You're going to love it
PRs are better than KOMs. Any fool can grab a KOM, but only a master can grab a PR... and only a master knows if the public PR is legit.
Use promo code PRsOverKOMs
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
This t-shirt is going into production Monday, shipping around the 27th.
Remember to use promo code PRsOverKOMs and t-shirt delivered to you for $18.
That's right... get this incredibly soft warrior t-shirt delivered for $18 with promo code PRsOverKOMs... code expires 1/17/2020.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/prs-over-koms-t-shirt
---
166 (uh, oh)
20 pull ups/60 push ups
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3009458098
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
DO YOU FEEL IN CHARGE?
Jan 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WHEN WE LIVED AT THE BASE OF SADDLEBACK, I'd roll out early and do the 35 mile loop by myself. The summit is 5600' higher than home. It was not uncommon to go hours without seeing a soul.
Completely confident.
No cell service.
Alone.
It didn't seem like a big deal...
... perhaps it should have, two competent adult men have been killed in the area in recent years.
One by a cougar.
One by a storm.
At the time, I always went with a prettygoodsize pack: 100oz of fluid, plenty of bars, tubes, tools, spokes, space blanket, rattle snake bite kit, whistle, windbreaker, beanie, warm gloves, zip ties, duct tape, very sharp knife, matches... and a kitchen sink for good measure.
I could, and still can, do nearly any trailside repair. It's not nearly as necessary now, the equipment is so much better.
There's a certain confidence knowing you can take care of yourself. You know it. Those around you know it, too. You're in the pictures, where others only see them posted later... wondering why they weren't invited.
I wish I had our new KOM jacket back then. It's much lighter and packs up much smaller and fits snug vs the old parachutestyle windbreaker.
When it dips into the 30's the KOM jacket is the ideal outer protection to wear over a base layer, jersey and arm warmers.
Which means I have to make you this hot offer... buy either the black or the hi-viz yellow KOM jacket and add arm warmers to you order.
Use promo code KOMLAYER to get the arm warmers free.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
Click here:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
Add the jacket and warmers to your order.
Use promo code KOMLAYER and the warmers are free.
PS... watch the neat trick I teach in the video, you'll see it when you click on one of the jackets... you'll thank me later for this one.
---
165.2
0 pull ups/0 push ups
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3006513114
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
NORMALPEOPLE SATURDAY?
Jan 11, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S 11:21AM ON A BEAUTIFUL SATURDAY. I should be just about done with an epic getoutandride morning.
I'm not.
Are you sick?
Nope?
What gives?
Me. I give. I surrendered to the busyness god and chose to have a normalpeople Saturday.
You?
Yeah. I know, felt like I needed it. Slept in. Hung out with Surfergirl. Did some writing. Heading over for some overdue housekeeping at our interplanetaryheadquarters.
Nah... c'mon, you gotta be pulling my leg...
Nope. True story. But the best part... the best part is I'll soon be rolling out in 65 degree weather vs the 40 degrees at 7am. Satisfied?
Totally.
I felt suprisingly stale when I finally got out for a ride. For sure I had made the right decision.
Eventually the legs came around and starting firing... managed to snag a few PRs - no wind or peloton assist.
PRs are better than KOMs. Any fool can grab a KOM, but only a master can grab a PR... and only a master knows if the public PR is legit.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/prs-over-koms-t-shirt
https://pedalindustries.com/products/prs-over-koms-t-shirt
This t-shirt is going into production Monday, shipping around the 27th.
If you're into superduper soft t-shirts, designed to fit athletes who know the PR code, well you might want to use promo code PRsOverKOMs and t-shirt delivered to you for $18.
That's right... get this incredibly soft warrior t-shirt delivered for $18 with promo code PRsOverKOMs... code expires 1/14/2020.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/prs-over-koms-t-shirt
---
Dear Old Diesel,
I just finished I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.
Random reflections… amazing writer, incredible story, I don’t think things have changed that much – just different, which bothers me
I kind of feel powerless – I’m not sure what I should do differently
Again, Thanks for recommending, JG
Dear JG,
I don’t want to overthink this response... so, I’m going from my gut... knowing nothing about your personal life...
... stop watching the news and go make a new friend – color don’t matter. Everybody needs a friend. Be the change you want to see.
Love ya man!, T.O.D.
---
164.6
0 pull ups/0 push ups
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3003148253
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
THE UNI'S
Jan 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
YES, I HAVE A UNICYCLE and I can most certainly ride circles around you. Not figuratively my fellow member of the PEDALposse, literally... in a fun, playful way.
That's what unicycles are good for.
They are not good for actually getting anywhere, though I did ride it backpack-laden to high school for a year... it was more fun and cheaper than driving.
But the uni's I want to chat about are the other uni's... I'm betting you have at least 2.
I do.
My work uni: cycling-themed t-shirt and flipflops.
My riding uni: caressing and perfectlyfitting fabrics drenched in a sexy design... feel fast, ride fast is a real thing!
My rarelyworn uni, aka dressupchurchfuneral uni: black slacks, black tie, black flipflops, white shirt.
For many, my work uni is a play uni... I get that, but we are having a lot of fun over here and our work uni is... howdoyousay... apropos?
Most people don't care about t-shirts.
For them it doesn't matter that the cotton gets softer and softer the more you wash it. They don't care that we've developed special inks that you can't feel on the t-shirt. It's not a big deal if the fabric is cut for an athletic fit. And, they certainly don't wear t-shirts secret with warrior codes.
But that's what this t-shirt is... a secret warrior code: PRs are better than KOMs. Any fool can grab a KOM, but only a master can grab a PR... and only a master knows if the public PR is legit.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/prs-over-koms-t-shirt
https://pedalindustries.com/products/prs-over-koms-t-shirt
This t-shirt is going into production Monday, shipping around the 27th.
If you're into superduper soft t-shirts, designed to fit athletes who know the PR code, well you might want to use promo code PRsOverKOMs and t-shirt delivered to you for $18.
That's right... get this incredibly warrior t-shirt delivered for $18 with promo code PRsOverKOMs... code expires 1/14/2020.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/prs-over-koms-t-shirt
---
165.2
20 pull ups/60 push ups
7;5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2998898355
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
MY BATTLE AT THE BAR
Jan 09, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THAT DAMN BAR. It's been owning me for about 6 weeks...
You're too weak!
You don't have time!
Haven't you had enough?
Well, NO MAS!
A new Diesel is in town... I strode up, grabbed it by the grips and rattled off... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,, 6,,, 7,,,, ugh!
Beaten, but undaunted, I dropped and rattled off 21 push ups... I always do 3 times as many push ups as pull ups.
My daily number is 20 pull ups/60 push ups. To date I can't do them in a row... but, I could do a lot more before... oh how it pains me to say this... before quitting.
The shame of it all.
Quitting.
Maybe it was just pausing?... nah... that sounds even weaker than quitting... Oh, look at the little baby he paused...
Anyway... why do I do them? First, Geoff Kabush said if you can't do 50 push ups, you'll never win a mountain bike race. Second, pull ups are really good for building outofthesaddle sprinting and climbing strength.
---
Which reminds me, some of the strongest riders I know get the pleasure of dropping me every Tuesday morning on our social ride.
Whether you're a local and join us regularly, want a piece of iconic SoCal memorabilia or have your own Tuesday ride... ya gotta love this design ace designer Joe came up with.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
Don't miss this offer.
Here's the code: TEAMTMWCCODE
It saves you 20% and expires at mid-night on 1/13/2020.
Meanwhile... if you're looking for a beautiful kit design, letmeknow.
---
Speaking of missing... did ya catch this new addition yesterday?
Dear Old Diesel,
I had so much energy when I rolled up to my driveway and then crashed hard after I showered. Ice pack on my head and heating pad on my neck! What do you do for recovery?
Thanks, NM
PS... I thought it was just a social ride...
Dear NM
My go to recovery is a handful of amino acid tablets as soon as I walk in the door. Followed by a quick shower. Then a smoothie with protein power (sometimes 2 of these if it's a hot day)... and I'll usually eat a few handfuls of mixed nuts or macadamia nuts as well.
- T.O.D.
PS... It's not just a social ride... that's how we sucker you in
-> gotta question for The Old Diesel? send it to help@pedalindustries.com
---
164.8
20/60 <-- hell yes I did!
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2996079355
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
ORDER OF THE DAY
Jan 08, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT MATTERS, THE ORDER WE DO THINGS. And, I'm constantly tinkering with how best to start the day.
But, the reason for a particular way to start the day might make it more powerful.
For example... first we put on our socks, then our riding shoes. First we prepare our drink in the bottles, then we load them into the cages.
Well duh!
Yeah, I know... but check this one out.
For many years, when the kids were small and at home, I'd get out and ride my bike first thing. The reason was to be sure I got my workout in.
The last four or five years, I've gotten up to read something uplifting then planned my day then got the ride in. The reason being... honestly I can't remember the reason.
Over the weekend, one of my nowadultkids shared his new routine:
Dad, I get up and put my running shoes on and go for a run first thing. Every day.
Since when?
1/1/20
Then what do you do?
Come back, meditate and review the day ahead.
Why in that order?
Because it's easier for my brain to wake up while I'm running. Then, when I return I'm alert and have a better session meditating and clearer view on what I'm going to accomplish.
How's it going?
I love it.
So, I checked with another of my nowadultkids.
How do you start your day?
Wake up, and I'm out the door walking to the gym in five minutes. Listening to a podcast.
Really?
Yep.
Then...
Then, I crank the workout jam music and get after it.
How long you been doing that?
3 years, since I started working.
Why?
It just works... I'm just ready to crank at work.
Do you ever skip?
Never.
I'm a whole 3 days in... and gotta tell ya, I think the punks are onto something.
Here's the secret sauce, 'cause we've got gear...
... I get it all prepped the night before, the bike is by the front door and all the gear is laid out and ready. All I have to do is grab my bottle from the fridge and start pedaling.
Come back, straight to the shower for no more than one song, quickly fuel my body, then purposely fuel my mind for the day.
---
Should this ride first ask life's questions later approach tickle your fancy, you may need a warmer glove.
Here's the dealio... buy a pair of Brisker Gloves and when you add our SuperLight gloves to your order you save 25%.
The promo code is: RIDEFIRST
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves
Buy the 100% Brisker gloves and a pair of our SuperLight gloves and save 25% with promo code: RIDE FIRST
---
164.4
0/0
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2993294182
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
---
Dear Old Diesel,
I had so much energy when I rolled up to my driveway and then crashed hard after I showered. Ice pack on my head and heating pad on my neck! What do you do for recovery?
Thanks, NM
PS... I thought it was just a social ride...
Dear NM
My go to recovery is a handful of amino acid tablets as soon as I walk in the door. Followed by a quick shower. Then a smoothie with protein power (sometimes 2 of these if it's a hot day)... and I'll usually eat a few handfuls of mixed nuts or macadamia nuts as well.
- T.O.D.
PS... It's not just a social ride... that's how we sucker you in
-> gotta question for The Old Diesel? send it to help@pedalindustries.com
NOT OUR PROBLEM
Jan 07, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MY BUDDY WAS LAMENTING HOW CROWDED HIS GYM IS RIGHT NOW. Apparently it's a storm he weathers each January. Not us. The biggest storm most of us are weathering is...
... whether or not the covers are going to keep us trapped in bed.
The roads and trails and trainers are open for business and there's plenty of unused capacity.
---
Speaking of unused capacity... apparently my pals Pete and Dave had some unused friendhelperness...
My tire sprung a leak shortly after the group got going... I pulled over and so did they! yes!
Like a well-trained F1 team we had her lifted, swapped and dropped in seconds... allowing us to easily catch back on for the meatypainy part of the ride.
That was cool.
---
Speaking of cool... I roped in new a rider for today's edition.
Her take after being dropped: hard ride, cool people.
... she'll be back.
---
Speaking of being back... ace designer Joe is back with a beautiful kit celebrating our weekly group ride The Tuesday Morning World Championships, aka TMWC.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
Normally, we don't share this code with the unwashed... but, over the years, we've shipped the annual TMWC kit across the country - heck out of the country. So, why not share it with all of ya's?
Here's the code: TEAMTMWCCODE
It saves you 20% and expires at mid-night on 1/13/2020.
Meanwhile... if you're looking for a beautiful kit design, letmeknow.
---
165.4
0/0
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2990484694
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
MY GENIE
Jan 06, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE UNDER THIS ROOF THAT WANTS AN ANSWER TO THE SELECTIVE NATURE OF MY MAGICAL POWERS.
When it comes to my bike not working I'm able to summon my genie, or so it seems.
The shower controls and the only I can do is call Nick the plumber.
My electronic shifting went out 1 mile into Saturday's ride.
Tomorrow is my favorite road ride, and as of 7pm I hadn't touched the bike.
I Googled changing the batteries.
SRAM's website says it's a 5 minute job, I multiplied by 10 and figured I could do it myself. They say peel back the brake hood and do the job. This is where my time started adding up because I'm so damn weak in my hands. My genie assured me I could get it down.
It seemed impossibly hard. I checked with Mike, who'd just replaced his. He has the newer model, which from his description seemed like any toddler could handle.
15 minutes later, I'd removed 1 battery. ID'd as medical battery 2032. Checked my RaceDay Bag - I usually have 1 in there, which I did, but not the required 2.
Quick trip to the store for batts and all said it took me an hour and ten.
Do I dare google shower controls?
---
How much do I love our Tuesday ride?
Enough to summon the genie.
Enough to have done it for 17 years.
Enough to create kits just for the ride.
Enough to invite everyone I meet to join us.
I sucker 'em in, tell 'em It's just a social ride.
This year's kit is going to look so sharp.
If you're looking to get new designs for your team, we'd love to help you out.
---
Almost forgot... Teams!, now's the time to get your canopy ordered... because we have the ProCanopy Special going: top, frame, roller bag for $799.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/canopies-flags
---
165.4
0/0
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2987680523
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
I SEE SAID THE...
Jan 05, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M AN OMNIRACER, not a monoracer. Meaning, I'll race Road and MTB and Gravel. Life would be more clear if I was a monoracer, but I'm not.
I like 'em all...
... surprised?
Today I busted out the new paper calendar for 2020 and went surfing to search events listed on SoCalCycling, USACycling, TeamBigBear, QuickNDirty, RaceOC, Epic Rides, LT100, DirtyKanza...
Then I penciled all the ones that have potential (put 'em in pen for Feb so you could read 'em in the pic).
Will I race 'em all? Maybe.
To win? Not intentionally - but it's been known to happen... something about the pressure being off... many I'll use as an excuse to see my friends, to test product, to test ideas, etc.
The only "A" so far is Sagebrush Safari a classic MTB XC race - end of March. I've never done it, and I know the course is challenging and the competition ravenous.
There's a slim chance I can get into Dirty Kanza, which would be another A... if not, I'm thinking Cascade Classic stage race as an A... they are both end of May.
Valley of the Sun stage race has potential to be the focus in Feb.
Sea Otter in April is always fun - I love the circuit race... and they added a gravel the next day... then I could do the MTB, which I've never done there.
The only other potential A is MTB XC Nats... I'd planned to do MTB Marathon Nats but turns out I have a family conflict that weekend... so XC - my weaker of the two - might be it.
The point of sharing this info is putting the all the races on a paper calendar does the magical thing and certain events start to pull on me more than others.
I think it's the paper.
Physically handwriting it all.
Makes it real.
That's how this omniracer sees.
This process is part of a book I'm working on, The Racer's Life.
Who knows maybe I'll calendar it in and finish it this year.
---
On the calendar for tomorrow is the last day of the Conti BOGO
Use promo code CONTIBOGO to get 50% savings on Continental GP 5000s and Terra Speed when you buy 2 or more tires.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/continental-tires
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/continental-tires
The code CONTIBOGO expires Monday, the 6th, I'll put the big order in on Tuesday and your order will ship in about a week.
---
163.4
0/0
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2985492498
Ride with us: click for info.
TODD brown 888-308-0005 PEDALindustries
We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.
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