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HE'S A GENIUS
WE ALL HAVE, or should have, wish we had, that friend who can fix anything. Even though we've upped our skills over the years there's always that...
... next level repair.
We can't do it.
Like my SID fork, today...
- packing in on descents
- rebound slower than a sloth
- adjustment dials backing out and loose
... I was in a bind.
Turns out the great C Gonzer lives where I'm visiting,
racing pals from a decade ago.
Within about about 20 minutes,
he had it working nearly good as new.
How'd you learn how to do this?
I just really like working on my bikes.
That's it?
Well, I am a mechanical engineer by trade.
That's it...
- love what we do
- study the basics
- achieve mastery
... genius level work.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/57/23 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Feeling Is The Secret, by Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GETTING HIGH
TRAINING AT SEA LEVEL is no way to prepare for high elevation activities. Sure we have extra oxygen to go hard, which is always nice. But, it'd be even nicer...
... to be able to rip when high.
Which begs the question...
... why am I working so darn hard, putting out so little power?
Nah, that's obvious.
Kinda.
90 minutes into the ride today,
we'd been ripping up Big Mountain Pass (f'real).
Challenging?
Yes.
Wheezing?
Yes.
Gapped?
Indeed.
Here's the rill dill...
... even though the power is relatively low,
the breathing is labored.
Which presents a realhonesttogoodness truth...
- breathing too hard
- not thinking 100% clearly
- focusing on staying on pace
... it's hard to stay on top of the hydration and nutrition at altitude significantly above our normal.
We, me especially, gotta force it.
Another important consideration at high elevations...
... it's better to pace on HR than PWR.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/71/12 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Feeling Is The Secret, by Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SETTLING...
THE IDEA OF SETTLING, for most of us, is repulsive. We'd never do that because our standards are too high...
... or, so we think.
Because we don't know better.
Welp,
today I realized
I've totally been settling.
While we do have trails to ride near home...
- skinny single track with rain ruts
- weeds elbow high
- punch climbs
... it's nothing like Utah..
Today, outside of Kamas was incredible.
My pals, PViddy and TimmyV, had been telling me it was great up here.
But, c'mon...
- smooth, fast and flowy
- adorned with greenery and trees
- berms so perfect the suspension compresses as you no-brake it
... expertly engineered trials.
Waywaywaywayway better than my home trails.
Once we know we're settling the only question is...
... what are we gonna do about it?
===
165ish, no scale
8ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/61/21 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
A GOOD BREAK
TAKING TIME OFF can be restorative. Sometimes it's on purpose, other times its an unplanned forced situation. Either way...
... we're anxious to get back at it.
Like right now.
Being that I was committed to be all in at the biz conference...
... I skipped the last few days.
Including the typical epic Saturday.
Everything feels really good except my gut, which is feeling quite bloated...
... after lots of good food.
I suppose that's part of the anxiety, not...
- the drop in fitness
- the packed on pounds
- the connecting with the crew
... the sensation of being a caged animal.
Some might caution,
don't over do it.
A fair warning if working back from an injury.
But, this belly is yellin' at me,
get after it,
right now.
Can't wait to start shedding and shredding manana.
(I've got 10 days to turn it around before BWR UT)
===
165ish, no scale
78ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/63/20 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
>
AI DRIVEN?
AI could be all it's cracked up to be, if we can only learn how to use it to our benefit. But, new things can be...
... a challenge to learn.
Even scary.
One of the take aways on day 3 of I Do Epic was regarding AI,
and it got me thinking about racing...
... because as we say, Racing is life!.
My grand takeaway is AI's ability to deliver what we are looking for has much to do with regarding the prompts.
For example, knowing what you know about me...
... create a training program as if you were Javier Sola
Just like us at a race,
AI needs its head screwed on straight in order to deliver.
And a proper prompt is the starting point.
Making it human...
... what is the main prompt driving our training?
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/73/12 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WE CALL IT SPOOKED
THE UNMISTAKABLE ENERGY of the start line can be overwhelming for the uninitiated. We feel it the moment we arrive at an event, and when we line up the vibe can take us...
... from confident and courageous to literal shaking.
Plans melting.
Rather than the controlled missile launch we'd imagined, we are overcome by the complete chaos of undirected explosions.
And, that's okay,
until we want a different outcome.
On Day 2 of I Do Epic, we spent much the day in a massive barn learning how a master horse trainer teaches and guides the beasts with energy vs force.
Demonstrating the animal's sensitivity to each other in the herd as well as to us humans, as we approached and worked with the horses.
Thankfully, the inanimate endurance tools we depend on...
- bicycles
- helmets
- shoes
... cannot sense our moods or energy.
Can you imagine mounting a spooked bicycle?
I've often wondered how I am able to reach a place of calm and certainty with hundreds, sometimes thousands, of my "closest friends"...
... so close to losing it?
I don't have a good answer other than...
- a safe race
- an unleashing of the training put in
- finishing knowing there was nothing left in the tank
... experience and expectation.
But, the old cowboy did share one nugget that really resonated with me...
... We create what we anticipate.
===
165ish, no scale
8ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/84/3 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
START WHERE YOU ARE
TRAVEL BRINGS IT'S OWN CHALLENGES when it comes to maintaining our fitness. Will we have time, will there be space, do we have the equipment...
... will we even want to?
Have the energy?
When I signed up for I Do Epic Live in the hinterlands of Idaho, I figured we'd be starting early and ending late so...
- 27 hours
- 380 miles
- 27000' of vert
... I made sure I'd put in a large training block prior.
Taking a break made sense, but...
... a funny thing happened when I woke up.
I had two and half hours to kill,
while situated on the shore of the Snake river,
with a lovely and lonely gravel road echoing my vibe.
My original plan was out...
- a long walk
- a ton of push ups
- a million air squats
... a quick and glorious spin was in.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
89/97/-8 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I WANTED TO STOP SO BAD
GETTING AFTER IT for a long period of time can be a beautiful thing, if we are in the right mindset and our bodies are prepared...
... and we're used to it.
Even addicting.
But, if our head's not into it,
our bodies not prepped,
it's been a while...
... quitting looks might tasty.
Like today.
There we were, riding up one of the most beautiful climbs in Utah, the Alpine Loop...
- few cars on the road
- perfect spring weather
- forever views up into the snowpack
... a coupla dudes riding a good fast tempo.
And, about 45 minutes in...
... I wanted to pull over.
Have a smoke, errr bite of my bar,
dip my toes in the stream.
It would have been so easy,
and lovely.
Which is why I didn't do it.
Because I know from experience pushing through these moments is...
... what it takes to finish anything strong.
Well, and the reward of a chocolate chip cookie at Sundance...
... would be that much sweeter.
===
165.8/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
91/107/-17 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE OTHER CROSSTRAINING
IF WE'RE IN A RELATIONSHIP of any kind we're most likely going to be exposed to activities which don't perfectly align with...
... our primary objective.
Got it?
Yeah, we get it.
The thingaboutitis...
... it's usually more than okay.
Surfergirl loves to hike.
Any time we're roadtripping and I'm in a hurry to get to the beddown...
... she's plotting a once in a life time hike.
Like today,
just after 6pm
3 hours from our destination...
... we absolutely had to hike Kolob canyon for no less than 2 hours!
Yes, that's an explanation point because...
... old diesels need their beauty sleep
Her "reward" for this detour is me stretching out while she drives, which I'm pretty sure...
... she purposely fakes like she's tired and unnecessarily jerks the wheel so I'll get behind it.
While I have to admit the hike was outstanding, and served to remind me that I should do some regular hiking to prepare for the potential to be hiking at Leadville...
...it's pretty clear I have not properly trained her on driving in a relaxing and soothing manner nor bowing down to the needs of her old man's sleep.
===
165.8/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
no Stretches
88/98/-9 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
>
BECAUSE I ASKED...
MEMORIAL DAY IS A BUSY ONE around here. All kinds of people out enjoying the day: runnin, bikin, swimmin, surfin, paddlin...
... things were chaotic.
I got a late start.
Preferring to get some work knocked and start prepping the van for our road trip...
... I slipped out just past noon.
There is a steep hill above a picturesque beach that attracts locals, nonlocals and everyone in between.
At the top, I saw an older woman lugging two chairs for her and her ancient father.
Normally, I'd just wiggle around them and the rest and go on about my day...
... but I remembered.
Hi there, can I help you with those chairs?
Oh, yes, please.
Leaned my bike on a palm tree.
Let's go down a little bit more, where it's a little flatter.
C'mon dad, over here.
This looks pretty good.
Thank you.
No problem.
How did you know we needed help, nobody else noticed?
Oh, I prayed I'd be useful today.
With that, I was off on a lovely tour of the southern part of our county...
... pavement, gravel roads and single track.
You're probably thinking Nice virtue signal Todd...
... to which I'll say, thinking of others is not my default or my strong suit.
I have to work at getting my heart to be fully functional.
===
165.8/12.7%
8.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
91/113/-22 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE RANDOMNESS OF PROGRESS
NICHING DOWN is a legit way to go about maximizing results. We study the experts, learn all we can, put it into practice. The goal is...
... supreme mastery.
But, is narrow and deep the only way to get it done?
The best way?
Personally, I think I've learned more studying endurance athletes and coaches from other sports than I have focusing on bike racing.
Maybe, probably, there is more literature and research available.
Here are a few of my favorites
- running - Born To Run, Christopher McDougall
- triathlon - anything by Phil Maffetone
- swimming - Total Immersion Method, Terry Laughlin
- natural fitness - Natural Born Heroes, Christopher McDougall
... because they introduced me to new ways of thinking about endurance and fitness.
Bringing in randomness to our experience...
- events
- people
- travel
... can deliver game-changing progress hacks.
If we'll just open our ears, eyes, hearts.
===
165.8/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
88/99/-11 per Strava
>
AFTER TAKING SEVERAL READINGS
SIMULATING OUR 'A' EVENTS months in advance can be quite revealing, in bad...
... and good ways.
Once, isn't enough.
Every weekend is too much.
It's not a damned if we do,
damned if we don't situation.
More like a...
- damn?
- damn!
- hot damn!
... outcome.
With that in mind I turned to Grok to help me assess today's simulation because...
- what happens if I cut ballast?
- what workouts would improve my time?
- are there supplements that aid lung function at altitude?
... AI is damn fine when it comes to crunching numbers.
Because I'm a true and proud supernerd...
- 2 previous attempts in last 7 years
- body weight on those days
- power numbers as well
... I have the data, going back years.
I put Grok to work...
- I can improve
- I'm in a pretty good place already
- This is gonna be a heckuva lotta fun
... and came out with what I already sensed.
Grok thinks I can beat my previous PR,
which seems absolutely ludicrous...
... mainly because I have a lot of higher value things I want to accomplish this summer.
This is a typical use of AI for me...
- confirm/test/explore what's possible
- learn how to do things I can't figure out
- assist in leveraging my tiny helmet covered bean's processing power
... are you using AI to evaluate and make moves?
As the great Wille Nelson sings...
... After taking several readings I'm surprised to find my mind's (and body) still fairly sound.
===
167/12.7% oof!
7.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
90/114/-24 per Strava went kinda deep today
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S A LONE WOLF'S WORLD
NO MATTER HOW MANY friends are planning to do the A event with us, regardless of how many weekends we link up to train together...
... the bulk of our efforts are alone.
Unseen.
By nearly everybody, except that neighbor who we pass by at the same...
... godforbidden time each dark morning.
We're on the hunt...
- miles
- skills
- fortitude
... for more.
And even when we do link up, if we're truly committed...
... we might breakup, or off.
For example, I'm committed to ride a spritely tempo between all the worthy climbs tomorrow...
... where I'll move into the bottom to mid-threshold.
Because that's gonna be my pace at the A race,
and I've really got to train it now,
to maintain it then.
So, yeah, 7 miles up the climb I'll probably be alone...
... just like I'll most likely be on raceday.
Which is why I'm working on this jersey to where in in Leadville.
Personally, I feel like an inspirational, personalized jersey is good for...
... a 1-2% increase in performance.
If you're of the same persuasion...
- super aero jersey
- amazing imported Italian fabrics
- no minimum order required, make just 1
... go here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project
===
165.6/12.7% (time to start trimming blubber)
8.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
85/82/2 per Strava (time to bump these numbers up)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
13 WEEKS SHOULD BE ENOUGH
AT SOME POINT, the training for the A event has gotta get real. Sure we have our base miles just because we are base-ically addicted, but...
... that's not gonna cut it.
Gotta get specific.
As of this moment, I'm 13 weeks out from starting the Leadville Trail 100.
It'll be my 8th time.
While I know the drill, I also know...
... I'm nowhere near ready.
Haven't done an hour long climb...
... since I don't know when.
Haven't ridden over 5 hours since October.
Haven't ridden my MTB more than twice a week in ages...
... haven't
haven't
haven't
haven't
haven't.
Equally overwhelming and energizing...
... the challenge is elephant-sized.
And, I'm gonna attack it one mile at a time.
===
164.6/12.5%
8.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
86/89/-4 per Strava
>
STRETCH GOALS
STRETCHING seems to go in and out of popularity. When, how long, which moves are a essential...
... and that's not counting yoga and pilates.
Where to start?
That's a good question.
I'm no expert, which is why I check in with my physical therapy pal, Scott, from time to time.
Mostly when I'm miserable
or injured.
Which got me thinking.
The last couple of days my bike fit felt like it had changed...
... which is impossible, right?
Then, I thought...
... could my body have changed somehow?
Thinking back on my many visits with Scott...
... and how stretches had fixed various aches and debilitating pains.
It hit me like a ton of lycra!
I haven't been stretching regularly,
at all.
Got back at it this morning...
... dang, I'm stiff!
But, guess what...
... the bike fit felt back to awesome.
Stretch goals are the kind that have us reaching to our limits to accomplish what seems nigh impossible...
... I like setting those.
New/old stretch goal...
... stretch every night as part of my shutdown sequence.
===
163.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
86/91/-6 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT MASTERING THE BASICS LOOKS LIKE
THE VERY BEST PROS have mastered the basics. From techniques to tools, from sleeping to sprinting. They have it...
... all down cold.
How do we know?
Because at the very the very best are still practicing the basics...
... only the output is at a much higher level.
Duh!
Yeah, I know.
But, the real question is are we chasing...
- fads
- trends
- shiny objects
... or working diligently on mastering the basics?
===
163.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FROM FLOOR TO CEILING
BUILDING FITNESS can appear to be a mystery to the uninitiated. For the reasons, holding onto it is illusive. And losing it...
... downright easy.
It's a shame.
If the unwashed simply established a floor...
- a minimum daily commitment
- built over weeks
- and months
... they'd find their ceiling to be nearly limitless.
Instead, they get the bug or come clean with their naked selves...
... and progress rapidly for a short season.
Get thrown off track,
and start over.
We know different.
Our floor maybe is simple as getting outta bed and kitting up...
... knowing it's easy to get out the front door at that point.
After that, it's just a matter of raising the floor...
... to see how high we can fly.
Things I think about while riding zone two for 2 hours...
... because that was my floor today.
And, I always ride on Mondays.
===
165.6/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/90/-4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
PRISONS WE CHOOSE TO LIVE INSIDE
>
HOW FAR SHOULD WE TAKE OUR BRO-SCIENCE?
ONCE WE FIGURE OUT the gear and products that work for our bodies, it's, honestly, just amazing. It fits. It works. And we stick with it...
... because we rip.
Easy.
We don't want to change.
That can be a problem if what we love goes out of stock or worse...
... out of production all together.
A few years back, when Wahoo acquired Speedplay they dumped my tried and MTB pedals.
The Frogs.
Had I known, I'd have purchased at least 10 pair of pedals and probably 100 sets of cleats.
To my horror, I logged on and learned the sadsad news.
No mas.
When I woke and realized I was out of my favorite carb mix today...
- water
- plain ol' sugar
- and Liquid IV for flavor and electrolytes
... well, yeah, I took a stab a making my own.
You should witnessed the...
- disgust
- concern
- warnings
... from the crew when we stopped to refill our bottles midride.
I shared my mix was 4 tablespoons of sugar...
- you're gonna get diabetes
- go into a coma
- die early
... I could only laugh.
Just what exactly do you think is in your favorite powder or gel?
I got the idea from an ultra-trail runner I follow on YouTube.
He'd wanted to experiment and discovered how sucrose...
- quickly absorbed glucose
- more slowly absorbed fructose
... breaks down in the small intestine.
It's a 1:1 ration,
most high end mixes are 1:.8.
Ever look at the ingredients of what you're drinking?
My 4 very level tablespoons = 50 grams of carbohydrate.
But, isn't that gonna kill ya?
It's about the same as a can of Coke,
or a couple of candy bars.
So, yes, it will absolutely...
- crush our health
- give us that orange with 4 toothpicks look
- and lead to all kinds of degenerative diseases
... unless we are ripping and burning it up.
That 50 grams is about 50% of what I consume per hour...
... when getting after it.
How'd it work over 3 bottles?
Flawlessly.
Gonna test full strength this week.
This is bro-science...
... so take it with a literal and proverbial grain of salt.
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
660 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/88/-3 per Strava
>
FIRST (TASTE OF) BLOOD
WE'RE LIKE WILD ANIMALS. Once we get the first taste of adrenalin, charging through the countryside...
... with reckless abandon.
We're hooked.
The thingaboutitis...
... we gotta get that first taste.
16 years ago, my pal Dr. Jeff couldn't keep from...
... slobbering all over me.
About gravel riding.
You would love it.
Seems kinda lame.
Trust me.
Tell me why.
Well, it'a a combination of two things you love: road and mtb.
And it's fun?
Oh yes!
It took me 5 years to finally see a signal...
- steel
- heavy
- leather bags
... a lonely gravel bike on sale at the local bike shop.
I thought it was radical to ride the tires at such low pressure...
- 38mm
- 60 lbs
- with tubes
... now I'm on tubeless carbon hoops, rolling 18 up front 20 in the back.
So much has improved!
For the first year or more I rode gravel alone...
... like a lunatic in the wild.
It took 5 more years till a few of us were getting together...
... and another 3ish to do what we did today.
Ruckus URBN GRVL group rides.
In town for the weekend, Jeff joined us for today's masterpiece...
... I'm not sure he made the connection on the impact he's had on us.
===
165.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
6200 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
88/101/-14 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STOP BEING MEDIUM
THERE'S A REASON so many of us struggle to improve. Especially the newest of us...
... doing all we can to hang on.
Never improving.
I heard it said so well and succinctly today by one of my fave running coaches, the great Fred Duncan.
The question how much work we can survive in one session, it's...
- hard
- easy
- hard, again
... how many high quality outputs can we stack over weeks and months and years?
If we aren't resting, active-recovering we can't go hard enough on our hard days to see any improvement...
... we become really excellent at medium.
And, stay there.
Which is fine, if you're into that sorta thing.
But, I know you're not.
Which brings up today's ride...
- 23 miles
- ave HR 93
- ave PWR 102
... we did the impossible.
I say impossible because it's nearly impossible to get a group of athletes together and not start pushing...
... we pulled it off by setting the tone ahead of time.
The BRO ride is a super easy conversational cruiser...
... because bros need bro time.
Before slaying it on the weekend.
If you want to do a deeper dive on Fred's post it's here: https://x.com/Fred__Duncan/status/2055274916199502322?s=20
===
164.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/75/8 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ZONE TWO MUCH
ANYBODY CAN RIDE ZONE 2. It's easy. Zone 1 is easy. Coasting is easier. The trick is...
... to stay there.
For a long time.
The past few months I've been doing my Z2 on the mountain bike,
on kinda steep trails.
Not spinning,
a lot of torque...
... then completely off when descending.
Which is somewhat easier than what I did today...
- keeping on the pedals
- with high cadence
- limited coasting
... Zone 2 on mainly flat, with a few rollers.
Turns out 2:80 spend doing...
- 90 minutes Z2
- 31 min Z1
- 9 min z3
... is it's own kinda hard.
1261 calories burned ain't nothing.
The mental game to stay at a given pace and basically never stop pedaling...
... regardless of the terrain.
I know you zwifties are wanting to mock me,
and I'm totally down with how much harder
it can be on a trainer.
I get it.
The real point is this kind of training...
... is extremely effective at building physical and mental endurance.
===
165.2/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER OF MID-WEEK RACING
MID-WEEK RACING has been around for ages and continues to endure because it's great training, fun to bring the community together...
... and get in some ripping intensity.
400 showed up to race Over The Hump last night.
A very healthy number of age group competitors...
... ready to battle.
I've missed the last two seasons,
so it was exciting to finally make it out.
I entered Elite 45+ looking to see how I'd rate.
Warming up,
I saw a lot of friends.
But, I was missing one.
My pal Eric was senselessly killed last year while riding his bike early in the morning, by a druggy.
After a decade of racing together...
- bro hugging each week
- seeing his babies grow up
- and turn into fine little racers
... there was a hole in my heart.
On the start line,
the energy was high,
the confidence eager.
We shot out.
I maneuvered leading into the first single track,
thinking okay this feels right.
There was only one solid climb,
20 minutes of redlining.
From leading,
to wheezing,
to 7th.
Ouch!
The downhill was a couple of miles long,
and it felt good - even PRd it.
Sliding out onto the double track,
I could see 5th and 6th,
and closed the gap.
Two of the three of us were pulling hard back to the finish line.
Just as we're about to hit the final single track before the finish,
we're caught by some of the guys we'd dropped.
At the same time,
we enter the tight turns we merge with the Beginners and Sport racers.
It's not pretty.
Some of us give the slower riders space,
others mob through.
I go from 5th to 8th.
Frustrated.
Upset about getting beat by the dude who wasn't pulling with us.
Finishing,
I stormed off.
Not my finest moment.
After a recovery drink and some spinning...
- reveling in my anger
- knowing it would motivate me
- looking forward to some specific training
... I realized how great it is to be racing.
Once I'd changed into my tshirt and jeans, I had time to reflect...
- we live in a free and prosperous country
- have the time and energy for mid-week racing
- I'm feeling 100% recovered from my TBI, while Eric is riding in the heavens and his family navigates life without him.
... and be extremely grateful.
===
165.2/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
590 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CONSISTENCY IS BORING AND...
THERE'S BEEN A LOT OF CHATTER on the interwebs regarding what happens by simply being consistent. What is often left out is the biggest battle...
... which must be won.
Boredom.
That's what the naysayers are thinking as we head out into the morning sunrise doing the unfathomable.
Sure, it can be monotonous to do the same workout over and over.
But, we aren't newbs or drones and know how to counter that by mixing it up, and socializing with likeminded beasts.
With unholy motivation we focus...
... on the rewards.
Months and years later,
we're nothing like the person we started out as.
Consistency might look boring to an outsider, but...
... we know it's lethal.
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/-4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DANGEROUS ENCOUNTERS
THERE'S DANGER just crossing the street. But, people do it and a lot more because it's part of life. We, on the other hand...
... like to raise the stakes.
Ignoring the warnings.
For years, I have casually read the signs regarding mountain lions and rattle snakes on our local trails and all over the western US.
In the process I've...
- a close up encounter with a big cat
- run over many sunbathing snakes
- stared down coyotes
... had one real scare and many thrills.
The cat was the most shocking.
I thought I was seeing a large loping coyote way up the gravel road.
Not uncommon.
Keep going.
Kept seeing as elevation changed.
Rounded a corner only to see a giant cat perpendicular to the road.
Staring at me.
Didn't do what you're supposed to do...
- stand your ground
- make yourself look bigger
... back pedaled and ripped up a single track, braking to make the turn at the top.
Went back to that spot many, many times,
raced up that hill as fast as possible...
... never came close to needing to brake to make the turn at the top.
That my friends is living.
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TIMING
TIMING IS EVERYTHING, and there is so much to be timed when it comes to racing. To time anything to perfection necessitates...
... starting very early.
Ultimately, requiring less energy.
We saw this today at the Giro.
The winning sprinter producing fewer watts than 2nd or 3rd place...
- 1480w
- 1870w
- 1580w
... making it look easy(er).
Because he timed his acceleration perfectly.
Not unlike sprinting for the line, the great Scott Adams stated...
... the secret to success is energy management.
Which helped me lean into doing my best and most important work early in the day when I'm most alert and creative.
What else...
- workouts
- relationships
- spiritual exploits
... can we improve with better timing?
===
165.2/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/87/-2 per Strava
>
BLAME IT ON THE DONUT
STAYING ON TOP OF THE RECOVERY is super easy to skip. Especially, if we are really on top of it...
... day after day.
We're rested.
When the opportunity presents itself to overdo it...
... we do it.
We think we'll be fine.
We aren't going to do die, but...
... we will be less than fine.
Like today.
After shortchanging myself on sleep two nights in a row,
getting talked into more than easy spinning,
skipping the hyper-ice sessions...
... all variables I couldashoulda controlled,
I suffered today.
The sting of ripping,
felt stale and suffocating.
When looked back on the data...
- on trails I've ridden
- raced up
- stomped
... I actually set some PRs.
The difference when between being fatigued vs fresh is stark...
... longfaced-droopy vs JUBILANT.
Eventually, I succumbed to the efforts,
pulling the plug halfway up a steepytechy...
... and limped to the donut shop.
Where, after a few moments and calories and water I miraculously...
... felt very fauxfresh!
===
165.2/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
6500 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/100/-13 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BRO!
ALL RACING AND TRAINING ain't the way to do it. The ubersuccessful connect with others on a deeper level, it's the glue we need...
... to help us hold it all together.
Not the training and racing.
Life.
Some say getting out and getting after is...
... cheap therapy.
I won't argue with that.
Getting out, and away, for a conversational workout...
... can be life changing.
Lifesaving.
But, we already know that.
Most of our friends don't,
or don't make the time,
or have the friendship.
Which got me out on the road way earlier than I wanted to today,
because I knew my pal had been traveling a ton,
and could squeeze in a ride.
And got me thinking...
- early start
- easy terrain
- all bikes welcome
... why not create a BRO ride?
Details in the image.
(Surfergirl has had this going with the Trail Angels for decades).
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/84/0 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BEST EFFORTS OSCILLATE
DOING OUR BEST. We hear from the time we take our first steps, through our teens, into adulthood. Then we preach it...
... to anyone who will listen.
Because it works.
As the great Tony Horton used to say on the P90X videos...
.. do your best, and forget the rest.
It's a legit way to live, except...
... our best oscillates.
We can get better at our best...
... is there anything more exciting than knowing that?
I found a fun features on Strava today.
The Best Efforts Power Curve has a little box we can check and...
... Show Estimated FTP.
The last 6 weeks I've been pretty dialed.
According to the app I've raced FTP 10 watts.
The feedback is helpful.
Knowing we can improve...
... is a devine gift.
===
165.6/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/91/-5 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GO BIG, PUNK!
THROWING THE GEARS TO THE BIG RING used to be much more of a thing. With the advent of 13-speed, not so much. Lot's of 1x drivetrains...
... making things simpler.
Better...
- lighter
- more aero
- cleaner look
... depends on the use case.
MTB started it all,
can't even buy one with 2x.
Gravel bikes are mostly there,
some 2x systems.
Road and TT have special use for 1x.
Track and BMX have always kept it clean and simple.
Anyway, there I was this morning doing my dawgawn bestest to try and recapture my PR from Jan 2026 on a segment called Pain Cave because...
... who wants to just cruse home after hammerin'?
And it dawned on me...
... back in Jan I forced myself to stay in the big ring all the way up the steeps.
Did it work?
Kinda.
Knocked 2:47 off of last week's tepid attempt...
... still 48 seconds off the PR.
I looked back at my scale logs...
... I'm 2 lbs heavier, .5% higher in body fat.
Then my weight training...
... I'm doing a lot more leg work Sunday and Monday.
Probably not a great way to prep for Wednesday.
Lastly I looked at time spent in Zone 4 or above...
... 48 min in Jan vs 49 min today.
I'll take another cracky at it...
- come in lighter
- more rested
- caffeinated
... attacking with punk blazing style.
Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-punk-collection
===
165.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/92/-7 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE SUPER SUCCESSFUL DIET THAT IS POTENTIALLY KILLING OUR POTENTIAL
THERE ARE A LOT OF SUCCESSFUL plans to decrease our extra ballast. Perhaps the most powerful is one that we rarely actually apply to getting lean...
... yet allow to dictate our ultimate potential.
Case in point.
Eat the same meal, day after day...
... we'll get sick of it.
Eat less.
Waste away.
Lose muscle.
It's just a fact.
Yet, we do that same thing...
- same group rides
- same strength work
- same A race targeted
... with so much of our activities.
The inertia against improvement is overwhelming.
We can't do more,
become more.
We stall,
or worse,
we give it all up.
And why not?
It's become boring.
However, who can blame even the most monk-like amongst us who pack on the pounds because...
... there are so many amazing food choices to be had.
These days, living in any kind of a city, even the smallest, there can be found really creative and fun dining experiences.
We can eat more,
yes, become more.
Maybe not the more we are looking for.
If we're really going to reach new heights...
- new groups
- new strength work
- new A races targeted
... we must mix it up.
PS this applies to everything: love, family, business, sprituality.
===
164.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
720 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/3 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY COACHING IS MAGICAL?
REACHING OUT TO THOSE we think are in the know is pretty common practice. We can glean a lot. Getting serious about outcomes and...
... hiring a coach is next level.
#worth-it
I was thinking about this because last week I had two different people reach out to me about training questions.
Asking for my input.
Here's the dill.
For the most part a coach...
... isn't going to wave a wand and fix us.
What we're really paying a coach to do is...
... to tell us what we don't want to hear and hold us accountable.
It's rarely a question of knowing what to do.
Much more a question of willingness to do it.
And, ya know, when you're payin' for it...
... it does magically work.
(and, I heckuvalot faster than wingin' it)
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
730 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/87/-2 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MASTERY OF THIS LAW = MASTERY ON RACEDAY
THERE IS AN UNDERAPPRECIATED MIRACLE all racers experience, yet often fail to recognize or implement in everyday life. If we did...
... who knows what we could accomplish.
Parkinson's Law.
Regardless of the distance or event...
... given a set of parameters,
a cohort of competitors,
we go faster.
Nobody signs up for a marathon with the idea of finishing...
... When I get around to it.
We laser in on the distance, time required, prep like mad...
... and execute.
Parkinson's Law...
... Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.
We know this because on the week of the A race...
... we magically get all our work down days early so we can travel and chill before the big event.
The gun goes off and...
... amazingly, produce heretofore unknown abilities setting PRs and often hitting or exceeding our goal finish times.
Getting our workdays wrapped up within 8-10 hours was burned into our brains through the school system.
It's a tough habit to break.
Accepting a reasonable output during those same hours is mollifying...
... but, uninspiring.
Dramatically shrinking the time to finish the race or project...
Massively expanding the output...
Defying Parkinson's law...
... should be our nature in all we do.
===
164.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/89/-4 per Strava
>
MISSLE LOCK
BEING IN THE DRAFT is such a wonderful feeling. We slot in and feel ourselves get sucked along at...
... a dramatically reduced effort.
It's slight at first.
Just like when we lose it...
... we slowly come uncoupled until suddenly we're on our own.
So it was on this morning's ride to the ride.
Me and my pals, jamming up the coast.
I bombed down a sizable hill in front,
shot up the other side,
they slingshot on by.
And the gap just starts opening wider and wider.
It was too early to be burning matches.
I made the prudent choice,
flicked my safety cover...
... and acquired missile lock.
It took 5 or so minutes of a measured effort, but then I closed enough to start to feel the draft...
... it's like the radar going from beeping to a solid tone.
Target acquired,
detonation imminent.
The rest of the ride would be much of the same...
... alternating attacks trying to drop each other.
I'd learned my lesson,
stayed locked and loaded the rest of the ride.
As a reward to ourselves,
we honed in on Parlor Donuts.
===
166.2/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
noLower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/103/-16 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE EPIC SUMMER TRAINING
WHELP, IT'S THAT TIME A YEAR when most of us have/will have/should have/ better have something to train for this summer. Otherwise...
... what's the point of living?
Going all summer without a goal is just okay.
So, let me just tantalize you with something insane,
dare I say the best gravel ride in SoCal.
Dana Point to Big Bear...
- about 50% gravel
- 50% of the pavement is bike trail
- leaving from the sand, summiting before sunset
... qualifies as epic.
Kinda far,
120 miles.
Kinda climby,
14,409'.
Kinda memorable,
nothing like gittin' 'er done with friends.
This will be our 5th year/6th running (2 attempts in '21).
The basic layout is...
- dinner at my place Friday night
- 5am official start on Saturday
- dinner in Big Bear
... leaving just before sunrise, finishing before sunset.
Click on it to see videos and pics.
I'll be posting more.
Put it on thy calendar: 10.10.26
Check my stats... we weren't killin' ourselves, click to go to ride.
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/80/3 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT IS STRONG?
WE HEAR IT said of others. We make the comment ourselves, too. It seams so natural until we think about it, that it's...
... being said of endurance athletes.
_____ is riding/running/swimming strong!
Huh?
We're mainly scrawny.
So what does Strong mean then...
- big fitness?
- big muscles?
... things I think about while zonetwoing out.
If it's just a muscle thing, does it mean because they are actually stronger...
... it's just easier for them to generate X than it is for the rest of us?
If it's a VO2 Max thing, does it mean they aren't any stronger...
... it's just not as taxing for them at X effort as it is for the rest of us?
Truthfully, this conversation with myself when I was doing...
- all out 10 second sprints
- atg weighted squats
- box jumps
... throughout the week.
===
166/12.7%
89ish hours sleep
750 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
84/86/-2 per Strava
>
DAMNED IF...
SOME WORKOUTS are better than others. There are those when we just don't wanna do. And those when we're really feeling it...
... that c'mon LFG feeling.
What to do?
Or not.
Like today.
We'd already hit it pretty hard...
- bursts up in the 600W range
- plenty in the 400s
- rest in 300s
... not sure that qualifies as overunders.
At the end of that hellish 35 minutes,
we head directly to a segment called Pain Cave.
I didn't want to do it,
already feelin' smoked.
Told BBB I was just gonna cruise it.
But, you know how that can go.
I looked down and I was doing 380 watts up the final push and you were disappearing.
Since he said that, I thought maybe it wasn't a bad effort.
Numbers don't lie.
24 min today vs 20 min in January (a PR).
What's the benefit of doing it then?
I'll tell ya...
... to get fired up for next week.
LFG!
===
165/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
yes Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
85/89/-5 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WOULD YOU RATHER...
THE ENDURANCE WORLD is vast and exciting. So many ways to test our mettle, against others and, more importantly...
... against ourselves.
We must choose one.
Focus.
Go for our own greatness.
So, which would it be...
- Tour de France Champion
- Ironman sub-8 hours at Kona
- Boston Marathon sub-2:05
... that would be personally most satisfying?
Or for you...
- Downhill World Champion
- Unbound Champion
- Leadville 100 sub-6 hours
... dirty racers.
Doesn't have to be any of those, but whatever it is...
... why aren't we 100% committed to making it happen?
This trip ain't gonna last forevah.
===
165.4/12.7%
7.ish hours sleep
640 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: 40 ATG squats and split squats
83/81/2 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY CONSISTENCY COUNTS
IT ALL ADDS UP. Every effort we make contributes to our pot of fitness, and while the ones half-@$$ don't deplete...
... they just don't get us where we want to be.
As quick.
Which is nothing compared to skipping.
Or quitting.
We're reminded of that every day when we're out and about seeing people of our generation.
It's like looking in the mirror and seeing what could have been...
... kind of a George Bailey thing.
This is why we say Every Day Is RaceDay.
===
164.4/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 40 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 40 ATG squats and split squats
85/93/-8 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
19 TAKEAWAYS FROM LBL
THERE WAS A BIG SHOWDOWN at Liege-Bastogne-Liege, the reigning unbeatable king vs the French teenage sensation vs the previous two-time winner...
... and I have some thoughts on that.
Not just that they swept the podium.
Firstoff, there was/is/will be a lot of chatter about...
... a 19 year old coming for the king of July, this July.
Some say too, young...
... should be holding him back.
To which I can only point to two other 19 year olds,
who didn't wait for their time,
their turn.
The very terrifying Mike Tyson,
knocking out everyone who dared.
Cooper Flagg who the critics claimed to be overrated,
before becoming the first teen to score 50 points in the NBA.
Paul Seixas has something more in common with the Tyson and Flagg,
the same quality Pogacar had when he came outta nowhere...
- which I find lacking in Remco, and so many others
... at 19, they were/are all having a lot of fun,
in love with the sport.
Simple.
Pure.
There's something beautiful and endearing to their approach,
we might lean into a little more.
===
164.4/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
650 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
84/84/-1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
JUST HOW MANY CODES CAN WE CRACK?
THE ENDURANCE ATHLET'S JOURNEY is endlessly fascinating, as continually learn more about what we are capable of. Add to that, the constant flow of new information...
... we are constantly cracking new codes.
That's funstuff!
I tried a new one today.
After years, and I mean decades when I say years, of my tried and true formula....
- 1 bottle per hour
- 3-400 calories per bottle
- under extreme training or racing
... I tried something new.
Yesterday, I was exposed to an old thought via the TrainerRoad podcast...
- drink water, when thirsty
- ingest carbs via gels or food
- increase carbs towards end of the effort
... which seemed very new, to me.
My main impetus for trying it out today was that a week ago at Sea Otter I started to feel very bloated...
... almost nauseous the last 90 minutes.
It was a real struggle,
and it sucked.
So, today I put it to the test on a ripping 4.5 hour ride...
- drank only 2 bottles
- got a little hungry last hour - didn't bring enough
- put out better numbers than I have all year, including racing
... I felt lighter, dare I say spry?
Def worth more testing.
===
165.2/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: 60 ATG squats and split squats
86/97/-12 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
A WEIRD AND INCREDIBLE OFFSHOOT OF LEG DAY
MAKING LEG DAY a regular thing is something some of us do in the "offseason" and few of us do year round because...
... that's just the way it's done.
What if it's wrong?
Since I've been extra committed to hitting the legs 2-3 times a week...
- with weights
- without weights
- super snappy, max sprints
... I've noticed something marvelous.
It's becoming harder and harder to back it down,
and do the spinny Z1 stuff.
Plus...
... threshold efforts are feeling easier and easier.
Why would that be?
I might just be getting stronger, but I think it's more like...
... it just feels so good to feel the burn.
===
163.4/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: 60 ATG squats and split squats
81/72/9 per Strava (feeling mostly recovered from Sea Otter)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ONE THING NOT TO EASE UP ON WHEN TAPERING
THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT CONFLICTING INFORMATION is that it means most competitors are conflicted about any number of approaches to maximum fitness. Whether that be training...
... or on raceday.
Tapering matters.
We know we should rest.
Just what does that mean?
Here's what works for me, and why.
I cut back the volume, but...
... I never cut off the intensity.
Cutting back the volume lets my body recover and repair,
the fatigue melts away.
Putting out short bursts of race pace in the final 7-10 days...
- 10-30 second efforts
- at 80-100% of max
- then super easy
... keeps my muscles, tendons and brain primed for action.
You might find that conflicting,
test it and figure it out,
for you.
===
164.6/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 60 push ups, 15 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 60 ATG squats and split squats
82/74/8 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE TOOL KIT
HEADING OUT INTO THE GREAT OUTDOORS we often carry tools of some sort. Usually, the basics. Sometimes more. Depends on...
... how crazy things could get.
Risks we are taking.
But, why do we do that?
We aren't planning to have a breakdown.
Yet, we know shift happens.
It's happened before,
gonna happen again.
The point isn't that we are expecting failure,
we are planning for success.
No matter what comes our way...
... we'll git 'er done.
===
163.8
7.5ish hours sleep
700 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
83/77/5 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DOES THIS MAKE MY BUTT LOOK BIG?
ADDING ANY NEW EXERCISE or movement often reacquaints us with muscles we didn't know we had, mainly because we've neglected to...
... engage them in meaningful ways.
We're sore.
My latest has been a pain in my arse.
Literally.
After my PT said I need to thoroughly stretch my legs with ATG (ass to grass) squats...
... I got started.
'cause I'm obedient as heck when it comes to my body's performance.
I used to do 'em.
In fact, back then...
- they don't bend over
- they lower down with legs
- to a full squat and make it look easy and natural
... I remembered seeing the little kids pick stuff up.
Anyway,
I'm back at it.
Started doing...
- a few ATG air squats
- to sets of 20 after 20 pushups
- to doing them with a 35 lb kettle bell
... and guess where I feel it most?
Los glutes.
Guess what is one of our biggest muscles,
and if engaged with a proper bike fit,
can develop all kindsa power?
Los glutes.
It's bringing me back to high school when the girl I was crushing on came up from behind in the hallway outside English class and pinched my butt...
... whispering Nice @$$.
Ah, the glory days!
Maybe I'll get it back, lol...
... at least a touch of the onthebike power?
===
165.6
9ish hours sleep
640 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 40 push ups, 10 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 40 ATG squats and split squats
82/71/10 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE PROJECT AND THE SYSTEM
THE IDEA THAT WE CAN HAVE a system to help us achieve a goal is a mighty fine way to approach any objective. Then, it's just a matter of...
... figuring out the inputs.
After we define the project.
It's looking like this summer is going to be...
- executing our biz plan
- planning a giant family reunion
- and being around for our latest grandchild's arrival
... while hacking Project Leadville.
Without training like a maniac.
By putting a system place,
I can take reasonable action each day...
... knowing I'll arrive according to plan.
Since my bike is already set...
- continue to build strength with sprints and weights
- get back to 2022's svelteness
- fix the everplaguing bike fit
... it's a matter of getting my body ready.
That should allow me to achieve Project Leadville:
- have fun and great energy daily
- put down a sub-9 time at Leadville this year
- stay on track for my very long-term goal of sub-9 at 70
... while keeping the main things - family and business - the main things.
There is a caveat to this kind of systems based action...
- Podiums are nearly impossible to predict
- PRs much easier manage and way more fun to chase after
... it works better for achieving PRs than podiums.
(I'm starting to wonder if I'll every write a complete sentence or an actual paragraph ever again. What is happening to my grammar?)
===
168 (gotta drop 10lbs)
9ish hours sleep
650 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 body weight squats and split squats
82/71/11 per Strava (there's no way this is accurate, I'm still wrecked from Sea Otter)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HUNGOVER AND LOVING IT
AFTER THE 'A' EVENT, nearly always comes some sort of hangover. Whether it's mission failure, mission meh...
... or mission accomplished.
Excess is inevitable.
For me that means doing whatever Surfergirl wants to do.
Rather than collapsing on the couch...
... like most Saturdays.
Instead, we drove the opposite direction of home...
- walked the length of the beautiful cove
- picked up insanely good pizza
- 16" not 9", cuz hungry
... to beautiful Carmel.
Followed by 3.5 hours of driving so we could wake when literallyworldfamous
Old West Cinnamon Rolls opened.
Then, 4 more hours on the road...
... cuz the lady likes to detour at the beach stops.
Arrive home,
unload.
Enjoy surprise visit and dinner with daughter and grandson...
... and, finally, collapse on the couch.
(normally, I love Monday morning... not sure about this one.)
===
167ish
6.5ish hours sleep
550 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: body weight squats and split squats
83/76/7 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SEA OTTER 2026: THE PLAN WAS...
THERE ARE FIGHTERS and there are wannabe fighters. We all identify with every type because at some point we've been there...
... battling our competitors and our minds.
Executing the plan,
get into Leadville.
But, as the great Mike Tyson sagely said...
... Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.
Which is what the start of every race always feels like.
Today, was no different.
5-4-3-2-1 and we're all redlined hitting the opening climb...
... aiming to enter the single track at the top leading, or right there.
Because after that, the next 5 miles are very difficult to pass.
Too narrow.
And, there's lots of passing to be done as we generally roll up on the group that started ahead pretty quickly.
During the first 5 miles...
- Me
- Dean
- and Greg
... our podium was pretty much set.
We traded pulls that first lap,
and entered the second and final lap on the same time.
Here is where I had to make a decision...
- Greg was distanced just a bit
- Dean seemed to be slightly struggling
- The Ol' Diesel was feeling pretty good
... race for the podium or for a good time?
They are different things.
I decided to just ride my pace.
A gap slowly opened,
then, a lot.
I couldn't see them.
Just settled in.
Stayed on top of my nutrition,
kept the pace at tempo or above...
... as much as I could.
20 minutes later,
Dean, that crafty sunnavagun,
was closing on a longish climb.
Race for the podium or stay on pace?
I stayed on pace,
the gap opened back up...
... and I kept my helmet on a swivel the rest of the way in.
Let me just pause for a moment and reflect on how good it felt to be out on my bike and riding well. It had been a rough last couple of days on several fronts, and this morning...
... I just wasn't feelin' it.
Surfergirl sensed it.
You okay?
I dunno.
You're gunna do great.
Not sure I care.
Some days are like that,
sometimes it's on raceday
sometimes it's on workday
sometimes on familyday.
We always have a choice...
... to buckle up and fight
or not.
I'm glad I did.
All went according to plan, except like a newb I neglected to look at the time I should be shooting for: sub 5:10.
5:11
FTW.
I'll gladly take that and the gold coin allowing me entry in Leadville.
===
165ish
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: body weight squats and split squats
85/88/-3 per Strava
>
ANDALE PUES
WE MADE IT TO LAGUNA SECA raceway. Checked in, got the race plate, twisties, and free t-shirt...
... then, the pass.
Big bucks, for Surfergirl's pass to walk into expo area,
which she was determined to do.
As the best support crew ever...
... she wanted to see the start/finish and feedzone area.
Proper.
I got in fir free because, I'm a racer.
My mission was to see...
- Andrew, director of marketing at Cervelo
- Ard, owner/founder of Kogel bearings
... a few new customers.
That was fun,
so was running into a bunch of friends...
... which is one of the best parts of being part of a community for a long time.
Once we got to the start/finish area...
- who is your main competition?
- I dunno who's coming.
- when will you come through for second lap?
- around 11-11:15 (2.5ish hours after start)
- which kit are you going to wear?
- something bright to match those crazy shoes
... she peppered with me with the usual questions.
We're ready.
Andale pues!
===
165ish
8ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: body weight squats and split squats
81/62/19 per Strava (someone's tapered)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TRAVELIN' TO RACES HAS IT'S BENI'S AND CHALLY'S
GETTING OUT THE DOOR for local meet up is raceday in miniature. It's still easy to forget the bottles/gloves/shoes or arrive late...
... even for the practiced.
The horror!
A lot of infoolencers will post and vlog...
- terrain
- protocols
- equipment set up
... about the event itself.
Which got me thinking...
- where to stay
- restaurants
- travel mode
... a race travel channel would be cool.
For Sea Otter, I always look forward to breaking up the six hour drive.
It's about 3 hours to Buelton, a little more if you take the scenic route outside of Santa Barabara used by Tour of California...
... and stop in Solvang because your trophy wife wants to.
Why?
Because it's Solvang.
What are we going to do?
It's Solvang.
The Flying Flags RV park has been my layover for like eight years...
- resor-style pools
- Industrials shepherd's pie is insane
- Ellen's Danish Pancake House fueling Saturday's race.
... since Zone2 turned me on to it.
After years of overselling it, I finally got Surfergirl to join me.
Laguna Seca or bust!
===
165/12.6% (wanted to be a lot lighter - oh well)
7.5ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: body weight squats and split squats
83/68/14 per Strava (someone's tapered)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY JOIN A CLUB?
Feb 07, 2022
by TODD BROWN
READER MH POINTED OUT WHAT HE LIKES ABOUT STRAVA CLUBS. It wasn't the chance to communicate, or join the posted rides...
... it was for the inspiration.
Specifically, he likes to see the others' weekly accomplishments.
The leader board totals.
Some of these guys ride a lot.
Like who?
Mark C, he rides up to 300 miles a week.
Oh yeah, he's a beast!
I bet.
Of course, off the bike he's a mild-mannered scientist.
So, maybe it's more than inspiration. Because when you dig a little, and find out who these cats are before they don their lycra alter egos, you learn they're regular peeps...
... who happen to get extraordinary results.
And, yeah, that is pretty dern inspiring.
Make every day count.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
Part of that is making sure you're fueled right after the ride.
I love this stuff.
Use promo code: JOIN
and save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
164.9
7.7
30 Pull Ups + 36 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
Hello,
Not sure if these come to you but I have a story I thought you'd like so sending it your way. We've met on Pendleton a couple times BTW.
I live in San Diego and was racing in Carson City with a buddy on Sunday. I went to bed thinking we were meeting at 5:45 am to carpool. Went to be early so I woke up without at 4:55 only to see a text saying "your house was dark so we left." It was supposed to be 4:45!! But no problem. My bike was ready and my RaceDay bag was packed so I jumped into my car and called my teammate. They were only 5 minutes down the road so they pulled over and we still were able to carpool together and have plenty of time for a warm up. Oh and, we raced twice and each got on the podium for one of the races (trading places as the leadout)!! All thanks to being ready with my RaceDay bag!!
Thanks, see you on pendleton again sometime.
Shane
CAN WE ALL JUST AGREE GOING TO THE GYM SUCKS?
Feb 06, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I'VE NEVER BEEN A GYM GUY. It's a time suck. Change clothes, drive over, pick up sweaty equipment, leave my sweat on equipment, drive home, shower, get dressed...
... I have things I want to get done in life.
Like ride my bike.
But, I also want to be strong.
For past the 18 months I've been refining my approach...
... it's simple,
requires less time than the drive over and back to the gym,
... and I feel amazing.
Not only that, but the last four months I've really cracked the code...
... brought it to a whole new level.
3 main exercises.
High weight.
Low reps.
At home.
If you want to know more, let me know.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/share-our-mission-earn-a-commission
In the meantime, if you have had a life changing experience hanging out with PEDALindustries and using our products...
... check out this video:
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/share-our-mission-earn-a-commission
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
163.4
8
10 Pull Ups + 12 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats
10 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY ARE THE PRO'S ARE SO UNRELATABLE.
Feb 05, 2022
by TODD BROWN
PRO ATHLETES ARE SO HARD TO RELATE TO. For example, this quote from Richie Porte regarding 2018 Tour de France-winning teammate...
... When Geraint is lean, and he's motivated, he's as good as anybody.
I mean how do you relate to that?
Is he saying it's okay to be a professional cyclist, being paid millions of euros, to race your bicycle...
... and not be lean and motivated. every. single. time. you. race?
Really?
Shift.
Pay me that kinda cash and I'll be motivated as hell, fit as a fiddle.
Which highlights the difference between us and the pro's...
... we love this sport so much we do all that for free.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
You know what else I'll do for free?
Invite you the adventure of a lifetime.
Riding from the shores of Dana Point to the slopes of Snow Summit.
If you're in...
... please let m know here: https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
162
7
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY DON'T MASTERS EVER ARRIVE?
Feb 04, 2022
by TODD BROWN
MASTERY, IT'S THE ULTIMATE STATUS. You can't buy it, can't rush it, can't receive it, can't steal it...
... it's the best goal.
Sure a shiny bike, a fancy kit, a slick helmet look cool.
Hell, they look awesome...
... unless adorning a slovenly, mistreated body, on a painfully wandering and clunking attempt to ride.
A true master looks great no matter what...
... smooth pedal stroke,
taught muscles,
buttery position...
... and the keen confidence of man-eater.
Amateurs come and go.
Masters never arrive...
... constantly improving, exploring, challenging themselves and everyone else...
... to be better today than yesterday.
How do you think I found this absolutely amazing lube from Ceramic Speed?
It wasn't waiting for a FB ad.
If you've been searching for a gamechanging lube, check this out.
Use promo code: ULTIMATESTATUS
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
163.1
7.5
25 Pull Ups + 18 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
CRAZY QUAD FATIGUE
Feb 03, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I WAS ON ONE OF THOSE ZOOMIE CALLS and we started talking about what we do. The facilitator told about a time he came out to visit me and brought his bike...
... and had the thrill of a lifetime.
He'd never ridden on the ragged edge of a hard charging posse. Apparently, I was quite vocal about pulling through and whatnot...
... not the kind of riding he did in his little farm town.
Well, one of the cats on the call DM'd me for some advice because as he said...
... I have crazy quad fatigue.
Like a good doctor, I probed.
How long you been riding?
A bit last summer, a friend gave me a bike.
Hmmm, and this "crazy quad fatigue".
Yeah, I started riding the indoor bike this month and I just can't do it.
What happens?
I can only last about 20 minutes.
Hmmm, does it have a heart rate monitor?
As a matter of fact, it does.
What did it show?
About 160 beats a minute.
Hmmm...
Look, I used to have strong quads. I could squat four times my body weight.
I'm doing all the calculations. From what I can tell, he's struggling to push more than 300 watts for more than 20 minutes...
... which is a massive effort.
Well, I think I know what's ailing you?
Great!
Yeah, ride easier.
That went about as well as it goes for most people...
... they just can't wrap their helmets around the idea of building a base.
I need to make some room for a new shipment, so here's a deal.
Get these bottles for 40% savings.
Use Promo Code: CRAZYQUADS
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
1634.5
7.7
30 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
10 minutes recovery
60minutes reading + Journaling
WHAT KIND OF SUFFERING DO YOU PREFER?
Feb 02, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF SUFFERING. The obvious suffering is when we sign up for a race, or join the posse for some ripping around...
... then there is needless suffering.
I was thinking about that today as we PRd a 10 mile segment I've ridden many, many times...
... and yes, I was pulling through like a mofo.
The pace was vicious. 8-10 rotating, 20ish hanging on, and another 10-20 shot out the back...
... I'm still hacking an occasional cough.
That's what I mean by suffering by choice. We all agree to it...
... for the experience is unmatched.
We learn so much from these experiences and wouldn't trade them for the world.
Then, there is needless suffering...
... the kind we do through our own poor choices.
Like, poor:
- Bike maintenance
- Diet choice
- Sleep habits
- Recovery
- Bike fit
- Core work
- Handling skills
- etc
So, if you're down for suffering by choice and avoiding needless suffering on mixed surfaces...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
... on May 14-15th, we have an opportunity to address both types of suffering.
On Friday, we're doing a mini mixed-surface training camp.
On Saturday, we're riding from the shores of Dana Point to the slopes of Snow Summit.
Roughly 110 miles, 13,000 of elevation gain.
Mixed surfaces, 40% paved and 60% dirt.
Details are here...
... and yes, you can choose from just coming to the mixed-surface training session to starting out with us to doing the whole insane challenge.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
163.2
7.7hrs
35 Pull Ups + 54 Power PushUps + 35 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
WHAT SHOULD WE MAKE OF PRs?
Feb 01, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I RATTLED OFF MORE THAN A FEW PRs TODAY. That's always satisfying, until you dig a little deeper and realize...
... maybe it wasn't all the legit, after all?
For example, right now the trails could not be better.
The ruts are filled in.
Moon dust is gone.
Berms are rebuilt.
The grass is low...
... and the bright green against the brown dirt provides excellent contrast.
In a few months, the grass will be so tall it will block a lot of the site lines.
The berms will be blown out.
The moon dust back, and treacherous.
The ruts will appear, deepen, and swallow wheels.
Right out the gate, I disregarded all of today's downhill PRs. Well, mostly disregarded. Because the fact of the matter is, my upper body and core have never been stronger.
Which leaves the climbs.
The traction was exceptional today, and that certainly aids the effort...
... but, I wasn't pinning it.
I was simply riding tempo.
Barely breathing.
While the PRs are suspect, due to exceptional trail conditions, the fitness is coming along just fine.
Maybe PRs would be better thought of as...
... Pretty Rad vs Personal Record.
Speaking of rad, this is going to be insane.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
We're riding from the shores of Dana Point to the slopes of Snow Summit.
Roughly 110 miles, 13,000 of elevation gain.
Mixed surfaces, 40% paved and 60% dirt.
Details are here...
... and yes, you can choose from just coming to the mixed-surface training session to starting out with us to doing the whole insane challenge.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
163.4
7hrs (not enough!!)
30 Pull Ups + 48 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60minutes reading + Journaling
THE REAL PAYOFF OF A BIG RIDE OR RACE
Jan 31, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I HIT A GOAL TODAY. At the beginning of the month, it seemed nigh impossible. Too much. Too big. As the days passed, I thought...
... maybe.
But, that's it.
So I kept grinding, day by day.
Looking at the goal.
Grinding.
That's payoff from planning to finish big races and rides. You get in the habit of doing hard things, and start applying it to everything.
100+ miles.
10,000+ of vert.
We keep grinding, pedal stroke by pedal stroke.
Looking at the finish line.
Pedaling.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
Now, if you like big, gnarly rides...
... and you ain't of afraid of the impossible.
Well, then maybe you're up for the SURFnSUMMIT
Riding from Dana Point to Big Bear.
Details are here...
... and yes, you can choose from just coming to the mixed-surface training session to starting out with us to doing the whole insane challenge.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
163.5
7hrs
25 Pull Ups + 40 Power PushUps + 25 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60minutes reading + Journaling
HOW MUCH VOLUME IS ENOUGH?
Jan 30, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A FINE LINE BETWEEN NOT ENOUGH TRAINING, just enough, and way too much. We question how much our bodies can handle, our families, our careers, etc...
... but too few question the quality of the volume.
The quality makes all the difference, whether we are time-crunched of time-wealthy.
Put a different way...
... the quantity of me is fixed, the quality is malleable.
Progressing or regressing.
Forever.
We're riding the long ride here. We know the real payoffs take months, even years.
Set the time aside. Honor it...
... with quality training.
(Hint: we are always training.)
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
If hall of famer Reggie Miller thinks it's important to have giant calendars for his entire team...
... maybe you might consider the same.
As if right now, we still have some in stock. Soon we'll be making them on demand, which will take about 2 weeks.
Also, shipping free at the moment.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
163?
8hrs
0 Pull Ups +0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
CHASING A POTATO CHIP AND OTHER DRAMA AT THE RACES
Jan 29, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WE MANAGED TO GET 15 LAPS IN during the 8-hour race today. Not bad. Got us up on the podium. The thing about 2-man teams…
… it’s real obvious who’s the slowest.
That would be me.
Each of my legs, my laps got faster. With the last lap always the fastest. But, never as fast as the tat's fastest.
On my last lap of the first leg, I could see the tat’s kid charging hard after me. There was no way I was going to make it easy on him. We had a full drag race into the finish area…
… he got me.
The next time out, I could see this potato chip closing. Imaging a jersey, hanging on a giant potato chip, with toothpicks sticking out, flopping in the wind. That’s the size of the little kid chasing me. This little punk, I barely held off.
The final leg, my 6th and 7th laps were the funnest. The potato chip and I were each waiting for our guy to come in.
I left first.
He tacked on wisely, letting me deal with the wind.
Then he made a clean pass, but too early, because the old diesel carries a lot of momentum across the ridge. Finally…
… he opened a solid gap on me.
Meanwhile, some other cat is locked on to my wheel going up the windy false flat. I don’t care…
… then I do care.
Dude has the nuts to jump me right before the single track. Normally, it wouldn't bother me too much. But it was late in the day…
… and he’s a slug downhill and won’t let me by.
Even when I asked nice…
… which meant it was time for a block pass.
Sometimes, ya just gotta do it.
Then, of course, I had to make my pass stick.
First race of the year, got a long way to go…
… but we’ll get there.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go/products/amp-pr-lotion
You might be wondering, how much PR Lotion did I use? 3 solid applications. About 30 minutes before each outing.
I love this stuff…
… have you tried it?
Use promo code: BLOCKPASS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go/products/amp-pr-lotion
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
163?
8hrs
0 Pull Ups +0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
8 HRS OF RACING?!
Jan 28, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE BEST THINGS ABOUT MOUNTAIN BIKE RACING is it’s generally in the mountains. Or, at least somewhat, to very, remote. Which is great…
… if you plan ahead.
You can really settle in and enjoy the wildness.
And, potential solitude.
But, it wouldn't be a quite one tonight.
Pulling in there were plenty of fires burning in pits. Racers up late, having a good time. Hottin' and hollerin'...
... this isn't your normal race.
It's an 8 hour race, and 8 hour racers like to party.
Some are going solo, me and the tat going duo...
... our main objective is noble and carries grave consequences should we lose..
We must beat his son's high school team duo.
So forget PRs over KOMs, and doing your best and all that stuff I normally stand for...
... the kids are going down!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... definitely going with the red glove, red sock combo
We have lots and lots of colors
Right now, it's buy the amazing gloves and get the badass socks for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
162.9
8.3 hrs
30 Pull Ups +50 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
DO YOU KNOW HOW TO BUILD A SUCCESSFUL RACING PYRAMID?
Jan 27, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE IS A HIDDEN BENEFIT TO RACING OFTEN. It ain't fitness, ain't knowing your competition, ain't skill improvement, ain't none of that. You'll see it...
... as soon as I say it.
At least you will if you race a lot. If you don't race a lot, it's invisible to you...
... you also see it, but you don't know what it is.
Those who race a lot are anxious, but not like those who don't.
Those who don't race a lot have all kinds of anxiety. They are at a huge disadvantage because their emotional energy is leaking, spouting out all over the place...
... and they haven't even crossed the start line.
Racers use a pyramid strategy to avoid all the above.
Think of the A race on top.
Two B races below.
Three C races at the base.
Got it?
I don't taper for my C races. They are just part of the year, with the added benefit of going through the raceday rituals. I have no stress, no need to accomplish X. These are a great place to try different tactics.
B races, I'll taper a bit for those. And I'll have definite tactics to implement and do all I can do to see if they work.
With the base of many C's and some B's I arrive at my A races...
... calm, a sense of serenity.
I've been here before, I know what to do, I'm anxious to execute my plan...
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... and just like every other race I pull on the best gloves and socks in the world.
I like the red, to match my helmet and pull the red accents of my race kit.
We have lots and lots of colors
Right now, it's buy the amazing gloves and get the badass socks for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
Got a question, ask it here where all the racers hang out: https://www.strava.com/clubs/RaceDayReady
---
162.9
8.3 hrs
30 Pull Ups +50 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
PROOF WE ARE LUCKIER THAN MOST
Jan 26, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ON MY LUNCH RIDE TODAY I CAME ACROSS A GIANT STUFFED ANIMAL in the middle of nowhere. Some joker hauled it out there...
... and ya just gotta laugh at that.
It's the kinda thing that is proof our wheeled-band is extremely lucky.
Here's what I mean...
... society does its best to beat the childlike wonder of life out us.
Rigid schedules, rigid curriculum, rigid pace, slowly stamping out happy little cogs to go in world's big, massive wheel.
Along the way, we are constantly told to grow up.
Kids today call this adulting, like it's derogatory. They are figuring it out.
Which is why I say you and I are so lucky.
We get to work, and create...
... and ride our bikes!
We are the survivors.
The lucky ones...
... we are still kidding, while doing a damn fine job adulting.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1
This time of year can be chilly, and a good time for a beanie...
... and later in the year it's a good time for a hat.
Right now, today, and tomorrow only... score 33% savings on any of these hats.
Why you ask?
Well, I'm moving the warehouse and I'd really like to move less rather than more.
Grab one for yourself, and kinda for me while I'm adulting.
Use promo code: KIDDING
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1
---
163
8.3 hrs
25 Pull Ups +40 Power PushUps + 25 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
HOW TO MAXIMIZE THE RACE CALENDAR
Jan 25, 2022
by TODD BROWN
YEAH, IT TAKES MAJOR GUTS TO FILL IN YOUR RACEDAY CALENDAR™. To say I want to do X on this day means...
... you're saying yes to X, and no to everything else.
No cheat days?
None.
No skipping workouts?
Nope.
Can I start in a week?
You started when you woke up this morning, get going.
So, let me give you some ideas on how to fill in the calendar.
- Lead with you 1 or 2, maybe 3, events you really want to crush. Put those in first.
- Block out vacations.
- Block out work trips.
- Add the B and C races, those you want to test yourself and probe your competition.
I know you know how the work trips are going to go down. What the travel and accommodations will be like. Your roll. How to shine at what you do.
And don't tell me you can't visualize laying on the beach with your lover, or whatever you like to do on a vacation. I know y'all start scheming and dreaming early.
Now, work through the month leading up to your A race. Go through it mentally. From prepping your bike, to arriving in race town...
... see yourself on that start line,
ready,
to get what you want.
It's a helluvalot easier to say yes to X and no to everything else now, isn't it?
That's why you hang that calendar when you can see it,
every day,
of every week,
all month long!
I have developed a few tools for you here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training
---
164.5
7 hrs
25 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 25 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
REGISTRATION CLOSED.
Jan 24, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE AIN'T MUCH WORSE THAN PLANNING TO HIT A BIG RACE, delaying signing up, and finding out registration is closed. Except, of course...
... waiting until the last moment, paying extra, then paying dearly.
By paying dearly, I mean getting your lycra cradled buns handed to you.
A wise old diesel once said...
... Until you have registered for the event you are nothing.
Kinda harsh.
But, totally true.
That's the first line in his book, and the very words my handsome and kind cousin regurgitated to me Saturday.
Todd, I had an amazing experience.
Yeah?
Yeah, I've been playing tennis for 30 years and I've had the same weak volley all along. I decided to find a coach and change it, even if it took me 10,000 hours.
Wow cous'!
Yeah, but it's like that book says... magic happens once we commit.
How so?
Well, I found the coach. Spent an hour with him. Revolutionized my net play on the spot.
That's freakin' awesome!
That's the power of registering.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training
So, you can imagine my joy today when one of my padawans responded with the following when I asked if he was registered for his A race.
Sure am... check this from the race promoter.
If you're into making the most of RaceDay, then ya outta check out what we're doing.
We take this seriously.
Not because winning a bike race is serious business, it's fun...
... because being prepared to win on a moment's notice is straight up bad to the bone.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training
---
163.9
8.5 hrs
25 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 25 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
ARE YOU LOSING OR COMPOUNDING?
Jan 23, 2022
by TODD BROWN
BECAUSE EVERY DAY ISN'T RACEDAY, FOR ME. I hear that phrase often. At some point, someone will walk in and notice my hat and mid-conversation justify whatever thing they want to slack off on...
... clarifying they aren't racing every day.
Fair enough.
Nobody is.
I mean those cats racing around France are for three weeks. But even they aren't racing every day.
The sprinters scratch and claw over the steep stuff and barely make the cut.
The climbers scamper to the front on a sprint stage only to clear out when it things get feisty.
Some days RaceDay is just doing the bare minimum...
... expending the least amount of energy.
Other days RaceDay means sleeping in and getting a massage...
... yes, Every Day Is RaceDay.
Don't waste 'em.
Compound 'em.
That's a true racer's secret, the way they do things, making every day count.
I talk about that and more in my book, The Way of The RACER.
Order it here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer
---
164.3
8 hrs
6 Pull Ups + 6 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats
10 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY BANDIT RACING IS ALWAYS FUN
Jan 22, 2022
by TODD BROWN
OUT HERE IT'S PRETTY MUCH IMPOSSIBLE TO PUT ON A LEGIT ROAD RACE. Trust me, I was the last one to put one in these parts. Had to deal with dense, urban, few open roads, 2 police/sheriff jurisdictions, 2 cities, the county, 3 water districts, fire dept, etc...
... which is why bandit races are the happening thing.
Can I get a Hellyeah!
No we didn't blow and lights or cause too much of a ruckus. But, we did get a group of marauders and lit up the local roads with some fastfast times...
... consummated with a rolly, climby crescendoie explosive finish.
One aspect I love is because there are a few bucks on the line and an "official" standing, it's peppier and spicier than normal...
... even though it's mostly the same ol' guys and gals.
There were some cash premes at the regular hot spots, I even sponsored a RaceDay Bag™...
... for the last person up the vicious Mojeska grade!
Keep it fun.
And, as Chuckles said...
I'm glad I did this instead of the mountain bike race today.
Yeah?
Yeah, nobody's gonna see my name at the bottom of the finisher's list.
While true road racing suffers in CA, bandit racing is on!
Find one.
Create one.
You're sure to have a great time...
... all it takes is a Strava post and a couple of hundies from the usual suspects.
Shout out to the great JH (gotta protect the promoters' ID) for makin' Blake Silver happen!!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light
I managed to hit 49.5 mph, which was a tad sketchy considering the very windy conditions.
Had a nice taillight, but was wishing I had a my headlight going too.
If you're into being seen well in advance, I highly recommend you get lit.
Use promo code BANDIT
and save 20%.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light
---
164.5
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
FRIDAY NIGHT (GARAGE) LIGHTS
Jan 21, 2022
by TODD BROWN
IT'S FRIDAY NIGHT. Most folks are enjoying the evening, staying up a little later. Cutting loose. Not us. The garage lights are on, there's a race tomorrow...
... and a lotta wrenching to be done.
That's how it was a my pal's tonight.
He's reached a place few racers ever do.
He's got a racing family.
Which means, when I got over there to drop something off at 9pm he was...
prepping all the bikes,
while mama and babies were tucked in...
... and he was loving it!
There's not much better than a quiet garage, a good set of tools, and knowing your rig is ready to rip...
... and your family is gonna be racing with you in the morning.
Good luck to y'all!
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Of course, a racing family vs a racing individual takes a lot more coordination, especially if only part of the crew is racing.
That's where the giant RaceDay Calendar™ comes in soooo handy.
If you're into getting the support team onboard with your season, there's nothing better than the few remaining RaceDay Calendars™.
And, they're still shipping for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
162.3
7.3 hrs
15 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
ARE YOU RACING A HUNTER OR SCAVENGER?
Jan 20, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THE LIGHT FURRY COAT JUMPED OFF THE BRIGHT SPRING GRASS' BACKGROUND. My survival radar registering the movement about a quarter mile up the way...
... lion or coyote?
That's always the question around here.
I've had upclose staredowns with each type...
... it ain't as fun as it looks on YouTube.
I slowed.
Back and neck ramrod straight.
Head on a swivel.
It was too far away to be sure.
Curiosity got the best of me and I pedaled on.
I could see it go into the brush to the right of the trail.
I continued.
Then it crossed into the green again, looked my direction...
... padded towards me, kinda loping.
Damn.
Strangely, I was undeterred...
... it's brazenness convincing me it was a coyot'.
Closer.
I whistled.
Yelled, Hayaaaah!
Finally it turned sideways, this would be it.
Cat or dog...
... dog, well coyote.
Slinking into the brush on the other side of the dirt road, the fur perfectly blending in with the dry brush from last summer.
Gone.
That's kinda how racing is.
Someone gets aggressive, and we have to decide...
... hunter or scavenger?
Scavengers are plenty.
They ply off the front, get a little fanfare, maybe... and I mean maybe... pick up a preme.
Hunters are killers.
They stalk,
size you up,
get into position,
and pounce so forcefully...
... you have no chance to respond.
Once you have experience with each species, as I have, literally and metaphorically, you learn to spot the difference.
Here's one tell...
... hunters are slyly confident.
Look for that cat at your next race.
Speaking of racing, I had a huuuuuuuge aha moment...
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
... I had my giant RaceDay Calendar™ out and Surfergirl walked into the room.
This is great!
Yeah?
Yeah, I can see you're really only gone a few weekends, and we can plan the rest of our together and see it all at once.
If you're into getting the support team onboard with your season, there's nothing better than the few remaining RaceDay Calendars™.
And, they're still shipping for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
162.5
7.5 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
GODD@PEDALINDUSTRIES.COM
Jan 19, 2022
by TODD BROWN
DO ALL OF US REALLY WANT TO PLAY GOD? I dunno, but I do know I'd like to ride like a god. Wouldn't you? The question is...
... is the universe aligned with you?
Some say we are living in a simulation. And, when something like the following happens it's proof that we are creating our own reality.
Well, if this is the beginning sign me up.
Opened a packing slip today and the contact email for me was...
... godd@pedalindustries.com.
Ha!
Hallelujah!
If only it were that easy...
... it's not, until you realize it's not.
Then, it's easy.
Want to go on a brief dive into a potential reality? In the story of Adam and Eve, Adam wishes to return to the garden of eden. He's nostalgic for his previous life of ease. Only over time does he realize that labor is a gift. To labor, to create, is to be like a god.
So, we can be like children and wish for ease...
... or we can be like god's and work, create our best selves.
Ok, you can go back to sleep now.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Or, you can consider what a dear customer posted on our FB page...
... failing to plan is planning to fail.
If you're into planning there is nothing better than the Giant RaceDay Calendar™
And, they're still shipping for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
163.1
7.7 hrs
15 Pull Ups + 18 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THAT YOU'RE MOVIN' ON THE BACK ROADS
Jan 18, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WE WERE CHARGING THE BACKROADS EARLY THIS MORNING. It had been over a month since I'd made the ride, I was excited to test my legs...
... but, this was not a test.
By sheer serendipity, my return coincided with the group's first hard ride of the year.
The offseason truce had ended.
Unplanned.
Unspoken.
Unhinged.
A certain gentleman decided it was time, hit it hard, took a few valiant ones along...
... I felt like the buzzer had rung, and it was time to put down my pencil.
This loser was not going to pass the test.
7 days to get a few more answers.
7 weeks until the real exam.
Time to pull my helmet low across my face,
and move on the back roads.
It's more than that really. If you're still reading I'll tell ya how it really is. I'm pissed, shocked, hacked off! Eff those guys. Showing off their early season fitness. Eff their backslapping at the finish. Their cat ate the bird smiles. Their patronizing Nice job Diesel. Eff it all. I'm gonna tighten up the diet, lengthen the miles, pump the weights, recover like no other. Eff y'all...
... till next week.
That's how it really is...
... gawd I love charging the backroads with these bastards!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go/products/amp-pr-lotion
The owner/founder of PR Lotion called me up today. He caught me up on the company then asked...
What can we do to support you, have you seen the latest science on the product?
No.
Would you like me to send you that?
Nope. Don't need it. Could care less. My message is simple...
... put this on your legs if you're feeling racy, saucy, and just wanna haul some a$$ on your next ride.
And if you prefer to pay full price, go right ahead we could use the cash.
But, if you prefer to SAVE 20% then use promo code: HAULA$$
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go/products/amp-pr-lotion
---
163.1
7 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 12 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO COMPLETELY SCREW UP YOUR BIKE?
Jan 17, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ON THE LONG LIST OF ROOKIE MOVES, things we've all done at least once and sworn to never do again...
... there is one that reigns king.
It happened on my favorite holiday of the year, during a beautiful afternoon, just after meeting up with some of the posse.
The settling sun softly lighting smooth trails, a light banter as we flew across the valley, then...
... a horrendous screeching of metal!!!!
Rocketing up an extremely steep pitch, I tapped my e-tap. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem. But, I was being a bit greedy, pedaling under a load trying to keep my momentum...
... I should have backed off.
It was actually a two-fer:
- Pedaling under too heavy a load to shift with out risking all that can go wrong in such situations.
- There is 1 problem with e-tap, sometimes, especially on uneven terrain, it's easy to double tap it on accident.
That poor ol' (actually new!) chain went up and over the 52,
into the beautiful, bladed spokes,
and deep into the hub.
It was wedged so deep I couldn't pull it out. Had to walk a few miles...
... lesson relearned.
Not to be repeated in any upcoming races.
Thanks to posse shredder Kristen for rescuing me!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training/products/program-to-get-you-started
People keep asking me for coaching.
Todd, will you coach me?
My answer has always been no, until now.
I'm taking on a handful of clients who want to be RaceDay Ready™.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training/products/program-to-get-you-started
---
164.2
7 hrs
15 Pull Ups + 12 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
NO, I'M NOT SAYING YOU'VE GOT A CHANCE
Jan 16, 2022
by TODD BROWN
AFTER BEING MUGGED AT THE THUG RIDE, we met some friends for a big calorie download, and strained conversation ensued...
... Do you still ride a lot?
The ladies form the glue to this group, so the dudes just know me as that guy who likes to bike.
Yeah.
How often?
Most days, if I can swing it.
Now, I'm the oldest at the table.
Do you have any aches and pains?
Not really.
C'mon?
It's true. Any time I feel a niggle I figure it out. The key is to keep charging.
I know the guys were mixture of incredulous and envious.
So, we've got a chance?
I wanted to say Yeah, for sure, but I wanted it to stick.
No, you don't have a chance... you have a choice.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Of course, we know that...
... and then you've got to hold firm.
Which reminds me of these amazing gloves, which come in a myriad of colors.
Bonus...
... this month, buy the gloves and socks and the socks are automatically free when you check out...
... no promo code needed.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
164.5
9 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 12 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
LOVE WATTS, BABY BAILS, AND HOW'S YOUR FRUIT BASKET?
Jan 15, 2022
by TODD BROWN
ANY TIME YOU DRIVE TO A RIDE, it's pretty much a lock you're gonna do it regardless. But, when there's a legit tsunami warning...
This should be fun.
Yeah, we'll be at sea level right when it's supposed to hit.
Perfect.
Lots of spectators and safety authorities were out, but no tsunami to speak of...
... but, there was a helluva a tsunami starting at 8:15am...
... the feared and awesome Thug Ride.
It would be my first hard ride in months. Coming off my recent bout with Covid, I felt decently ready...
... afterall, my resting HR was back in the low 40s.
As expected, I struggled when things got hot. But, it felt good. Really good. The base miles I'd been putting in kept me in there for...
The pain.
The shame.
The chasing.
Meanwhile, a certain gentleman is riding about as good as I've ever seen. Up on the front most of the day. Pulling into the bottom of climbs. Making it over the very punchy walls.
Bro, what's new?
Well... I've been on a few hot dates.
And there it was, the secret to his dashing show of power...
... love watts.
Ain't no denying it, when the romance is good...
... the riding is good.
At the other end of the spectrum, was a certain lawyer. He also drove all the way down.
Sat in his car.
Texted us, Eff this rain!
I rang him.
Get out here.
No.
Don't be a baby.
I hate the rain, I'm going home.
Ok... call the sitter, have her read you a story and bring chicken soup for your pitiful soul.
Who doesn't want to ride 90 miles in the rain with the fastest cats in San Diego?
Which brings me to the fruit basket...
... my fruit basket got pretty soggy.
Time to dry off, and kindle up some of my own love watts.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Valentine's Day is coming up for all us Hallmark suckers...
... no better place to remember it than the GIANT RaceDay Calendar™
Shipping free now
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
163.8
8 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 6 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling
2 X DISCIPLINE
Jan 14, 2022
by TODD BROWN
DO YOU EVER WISH YOU HAD MORE DISCIPLINE? You know, something to keep you from going off the rails...
... and doing too much or too little?
Back in the olden days we had 2 X Discipline.
In the off season, we'd neverever use the big ring. There were small ring months, Oct-Dec. Sure, you can go plenty mcfast in the small ring...
... but, it's annoying enough to keep one in line.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, all mountain bikes and most gravel bikes are 1 X.
It's make shifting brainless.
Harder.
Easier.
So 2 X Discipline isn't really a thing.
The four seasons can help the weak minded.
Depending on the time of year and where you live, the weather could keep you outta the big and the small rings. Off the bike all together.
But, can it still?
Not really, not with all the nifty TrainerPelotoner things to choose from.
Season Discipline isn't really a thing.
Used to be race season lasted about 6 months.
Here, in CA, crit season and mtb season are on. They'll go straight through to fall when gravel and CX ramps up...
... and Zwifty got your racing back 24/7 in the comfort of your cozy cave.
Well, whatthehell are we s'pose ta do?
Can't 2X.
Can't blame the weather.
Can't trainer quit.
Only one discipline left.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
The awesome and giant RaceDay Calendar™...
... once you take a Sharpie and write in I WILL DO X...
... then you look at that every day and start planning out the days and weeks and months leading up to your commitment...
... then you will have 10 X Discipline.
Shipping free now
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
165
8 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 12 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
RIDE LIKE YOU'RE GONNA MAKE IT
Jan 13, 2022
by TODD BROWN
GETTING FROM ONE SIDE TO THE OTHER can be a challenge. We know where we are, we see where we want to go...
... but there's a stream or boulder or gap in the way.
As we know from our riding experience, the correct approach is critical.
We need the skills, speed, line...
... and the right amount of pressure.
That pressure makes all the difference.
I have found my ability to gauge the pressure required is directly related to my confidence.
When I'm confident, I'm relaxed.
Unhurried.
It's still scary, there are still penalties if I don't make it...
... but those are muted.
A mystic said...
... Act as if the what you want will be given.
I say...
... Ride like you're gonna make it.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Sometimes the biggest obstacle is finding the time to make it all happen...
... which is why we use the giant RaceDay Calendar™
Shipping free now
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
164
7.5 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Jan 12, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A NASTY UNDERCURRENT AT MOST RACES. It has to do with respect. The new cat has none...
... the established have it all.
How you garner it is one question, why you want it quite another.
Some is earned by simply being a regular, being known in the racing community.
Some is borrowed by association with others.
Some by having skills.
All of it is earned, usually hard-earned work on the front.
Easily lost, most commonly by intemporance.
Why you want it isn't because your puny and fragile ego demands it.
No.
You want it because it opens the doors when the racing is frantic...
... you are allowed in, where the action is.
Today, I rode with a most intimidating group. The first time I showed up I was rudely escorted to the back. Given no quarter. I kept showing up when I could. Eventually made a few connections.
Now I get to play up front...
... if you call wheezing the rest of the day playing.
I'll leave you with two quotes from the movie RESPECT:
- I need you to focus, and avoid frivolous distractions.
- Find a song that moves you, until you do that you ain't going nowhere.
Of course, amongst the cars sometimes you need a little help... like a light!
Use promo code ELECTRIC to save 25%.
Code expires Friday.
---
164
7 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling
MY REVIEW OF THE APPLE WATCH
Jan 11, 2022
by TODD BROWN
AFTER YEARS OF ENVY, the kids got me an Apple Watch for Christmas. I wanted it for several reasons. Right away I loved it...
... then I sent it back.
Here's what I loved, and why I sent it back.
Loved:
- Easy, easy to dual record bike rides in case the Wahoo malfunctions. It is sooooo simple to import the activities to Strava.
- Waterproof, so I can record water sports
- HR is integrated so I can get more fitness data walking, surfing, resting, sleeping etc.
- Blood oxygen levels are easily checked - a thing at altitude
- Glance at the weather vs opening an app on the phone.
What I really wanted was those first 3, upload all workouts and more HR data. If my resting heart rate is higher than normal I know I'm sick or stressed or overtrained. In my world, that's important.
Other cool things
- Remote picture taking
- Appointments at a glance
- Timers... like set a timer for 20 min, then stretch
- ECG monitoring
- Find My Devices let me ping my missing phone
- ApplePay
Unexpectedly helpful
- Every hour, if I haven't moved it reminds me to stand up. For me, that means ripping off some pull ups or pushups or squats.
- Alarm to wake up, it's very gentle haptic nudge is quite nice
- Oh, and it's a watch.
Why did I send it back?
I sent it back because I wanted the data plan so that:
- I could ride with a tiny watch vs a giant phone in a case and still make calls if absolutely necessary.
- Connect more with my surroundings...
... you see any time there's a free moment I'm tempted to whip out the phone and check messages, social media, etc. Could be resting at a beautiful look out, or out to dinner with Surfergirl.
I'm weak that way.
Now, I'm a little better.
In case you're wondering... got the Series 7, small face, sport band.
... or do something a helluvalot more athletic!
Here's another big of electronics I like... like 'em so much I run 'em day or night.
Use promo code ELECTRIC to save 25%.
Code expires Thursday.
---
163.5
8 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
IS YOUR FOOD GOOD?
Jan 10, 2022
by TODD BROWN
DO YOU REALLY THINK YOU CAN PERFORM AT YOUR BEST IF YOU AREN'T EATING GOOD FOOD? I hope not. I mean some do, at least it seems that way...
... by their actions.
But, not us.
We take the good food seriously.
Good friendships.
Good rides.
Good work.
Good rest.
Good love.
Good books.
Good movies.
Good family time.
And, because we're eating the above good foods we have a tires on the ground when the gun goes off...
... we are focused on what matters.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/all-tires/products/conti-gp5000-tl-tubeless
Speaking of tires on the ground.
Do you need a set of Continual GP5000 TL (tubeless) tires?
They're might fine... and might hard to come by.
Use promo code: GOODTIRES
Codes saves you 25%.
*** There is only 1 set of these tires available, act fast ***
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/all-tires/products/conti-gp5000-tl-tubeless
---
163.5
8 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling
IS IT TIME FOR A COACH?
Jan 09, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WE ALL WANT TO BE BETTER, FASTER, STRONGER, LIGHTER. At least, I don't know one single person I ride who isn't trying get a little faster...
... usually with the least amount of work possible.
Nothing wrong with that, we're all plenty busy.
Question: if your life depended on getting faster would you
- Read a book
- Watch a video
- Ask a friend
- Hire a coach
Of course, your life doesn't depend on it...
... but, in a way it does.
Because all of those options above require time to achieve mastery...
... and our time is precious.
Maybe it's better to ask Who rather than How?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training/products/raceday-ready™?variant=41006236139681
---
163.8
8 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats
30 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
TESTING, TESTING, 1, 2, 3
Jan 08, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I DON'T THINK WE CAN EVER DO MUCH TESTING, I'd guess we don't do nearly enough. It might even be worse than that...
... if you count all the testing done on RaceDay.
That's the rookiest move of all.
Hey man, what's that?
It's the new extraspecialgood humdinger.
Does it work.
Oh, for sure.
I don't fall for that any more, not that it's ever malicious...
... it's just plain crazy to try something new when it counts.
Months out from my bigcrazy goal to ride 150 miles from the surf in Dana Point to the top of Big Bear, I thought I'd do some testing.
Nothing too fancy.
Just wanted to mount up the 3rd bottle cage and load all three bottles with a drink I've experimenting with.
I'm using the Arundel cages, by far the strongest gripping cage I've ever found. Light, too.
The goal was to see if the bottle would become dislodged, and see how disgusting it was when it came time to drinkin'.
The cage worked great. No surprise.
No water crossings or horse poop, etc on the bottle...
... just a layer of dust.
The drink is a winner as well, although it is a little weird.
Let me explain.
A few years back, I came across this amazing drink. It delivered a ton of calories per bottle and had a mellow taste. This is definitely what you want when you need to drink your calories vs eat them. Such as bumpy trails and roads.
It had one problem...
... it was nearly impossible to mix.
I had to use a blender, and then it was so sticky it would gum up the bottles and bladders if it had a chance to settle. And it had this weird, slippery texture.
Really weird stuff.
This new drink is similar.
700 calories/bottle.
Same weird consistency.
But, it does mix well.
Allen Lim, SkratchLabs, developed it. The reason the consistency is unique from all other sports drinks is it's a different molecule. It's smaller. And it matters for digestion.
It's called SuperFuel.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/cages-and-drinks
Use this promo code to save 20%: TESTING
Code expires Monday.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/cages-and-drinks
---
161.8
8.75 hrs
11 Pull Ups + 12 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling
THE BEST SPEACH EVER ON GOALS
Jan 07, 2022
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE COUNTLESS WAYS TO SET GOALS, and multiples more of speeches and books and seminars. I used to be a goal crackhead...
... then I simplified my process.
But, don't take The Old Diesel's word for it check Reggie's definitive recipe for success...
... he's forgotten more his accolades than all of us combined could hope to earn.
I hope you can take a few moments to watch it...
... it's impressive.
Click this pic and be sure to turn the sound on, speech starts a few second in.
What are you goals for '22?
You can get a giant calendar like Reggie's, right here:
Don't delay... they won't ship free forever.
---
162.7
7.5 hrs
25 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
Stretched
55 minutes reading + Journaling
RIDING THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD OF ROAD
Jan 06, 2022
by TODD BROWN
IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE ROAD. And the road was dirt. And man rode bikes on the dirt road...
... until it was paved.
In the beginning (for me) was VeloNews. And VeloNews was printed. And racers read of racing in print...
... until it got digitized.
Road riding is like this prolific spawner of countless children:
- Road
- Crits
- Cross
- Track
- BMX
- MTB
- Gravel
In terms of popular energy, road is back to it's roots with gravel.
Road rides on with momentum and power and energy.
There was a time when I couldn't wait to get down to the local shop to pick up the latest copy of VeloNews.
Today, VeloNews announced it was merging with Peloton magazine. They're fighting for the printed lives. I respect the idea of banding together, but it seems like a marriage made in Roubaix during springtime.
VeloNews plays it pretty straight and covers a number nearly all of road's off spring.
Peloton, however, is artsyfoofoo. Romantic. Narrowly focused on the smallest sliver of road culture.
VeloNews print is officially dead in this iteration. Peloton is the print flagship with additional contributors from VeloNews and CyclingTips.
Will it work?
I dunno.
Maybe.
They are basically going on all on the great progenitor.
Long live Road!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Our SuperLight Race Gloves are perfect for the whole family of racing.
I developed them for MTB, but they are so light I wear them exclusively regardless of which bike I'm riding.
Yep.
That good.
Mesh palm, mesh top.
Plus, plus, plus... the matching socks are free this month... lots of colors to choose from.
No promo coded needed, savings are automatically calculated at checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
162.3
7.5 hrs
30 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
Stretched
45 minutes reading + Journaling
THIS IS MY FAVORITE LENS
Jan 05, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WHEN IT COMES TO RIDING, I prefer a photo-chromatic lens. It' easy to grab one pair of glasses for every ride. If it's dark, they are clear. If it's bright, the darken...
... but, there is another lens that is even more powerful.
It's got a special super low-tech coating called WIMMEF that anybody can acquire...
... without even going to the store.
With this lens I've been able to make dramatic increases in speed and other metrics of efficiency.
It works like this, everything I consider I ask myself...
... Will It Make Me Even Faster?
There are only 2 answers:
- Hellyeah!
- No.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go
Take PR Lotion for example.
My pal Matt turned me on to it.
What is that?
PR Lotion.
What does it do?
Makes me go faster, feel no pain, can't race without it.
Now, that is a Hellyeah!
Be sure to use the promo code: WIMMEF
At check out.
Saves 20%, expires Friday.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go
---
162.8
8 hrs
25 Pull Ups + 50 PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
Stretched
50 minutes reading + Journaling
WHICH DAYS SHOULD WE FOCUS ON?
Jan 04, 2022
by TODD BROWN
FOR MOST OF YOU, 98%, this is going to be gamechanger. Of course, if you've been hanging out her for a bit, it's not new. But, I'm willing to bet...
... many still don't believe me, and ya never tried it somewhere else.
You should.
The good news is I found a secondary source to back up my philosophy.
And what is said amazing wisdom?
YA GOTTA BE RESTED TO PRODUCE RESULTS.
If you want the science vs The Old Diesel's evil knowledge gained through experience:
- Readers go here: https://philmaffetone.com
- Watchers go here: https://youtu.be/dxODgYXOO7w
Now, let me help ya wrap your helmets around this concept okay.
- 80% of your riding should be Zones 1-2 to build your engine
- This will allow you to really focus and maximize the hard efforts
Those are two good points. If you'll take the time to do the research it will become abundantly clear.
But, that is not the most important benefit of this method...
... this is the most important, by far.
Building your fitness this way is the only way to sustain cycling for life.
We lose to many to burn out, because they ride too hard all the time.
Way too many lost.
Guess where else this works well?
If you're paid for results, and more and more of us are...
... this strategy of mostly easy days with a few focus days...
... is also a winner for bread winning.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/canopies-banners-and-flags
The big focus days, of course, are races.
Nothing better than hanging out at the race with the team, around the canopy.
Yeah, we make canopies too.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/canopies-banners-and-flags
---
163.1
8 hrs
25 Pull Ups + 50 PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
70 minutes reading + Journaling
I JUST DON'T KNOW WHAT TO MAKE OF CHRIS FROOME
Jan 03, 2022
by TODD BROWN
I'D REALLY LIKE TO PICK ON CHRIS FROOME. His nice manners. His Aw shucks, can't believe I won the tour again attitude. His wife sticking up for him in the early days...
... he's just begging for it.
It was all so picture perfect until he fell off his bike on a training ride...
... mangling his leg and other body parts.
So, he wraps us up in the drama of his big come back. I love underdogs, and I almost got sucked in...
... it coulda been so good.
Then, I just read he's gone and hurt his repaired knee by training too hard. He said it had been bothering him for 10 days. 10 days, riding with pain! Now he's gonna spend a bloody week off the bike...
... what kinda rookie move is that?
C'mon man, get your shift together!
There's just one problem with ripping into him in a family friendly place like we have here...
... what if I bumped into him on a ride?
It's not too far-fetched.
I have had the occasional run in with celebrity riders out riding: Cavendish, Phinney, Vails, Hegg, Bahati, Lettieri, Sagan, Van Garderen, Juarez, and more...
... so, what would happen?
It's always the same.
I'm star struck.
They're nice.
We pedal.
And talk.
It's hard as hell to pick on someone once you know them. Realized they're just another cat doing their best in this crazy world of ours.
Maybe he'll write a book one day about his struggles.
Wouldn't that be incredible?
Not the fairytale trash from 2015. I want the heartache of a tragic crash that seems to just keep seeping forward instead of moving to the past.
How he dealt with it.
I mean, at this point, does he really need the money? Couldn't he just retire as the greatest of his generation? Hand up the cleats. Spend time with family.
Get better Chris,
were pulling for you...
... and every other rider dealing with a set back.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/training
You know what else I'd like to see?
His raceday calendar.
It must be scaring the hell outta him, just like Jeremy below.
These are still shipping for free.
Act fast.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/training
---
163.7
8 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 20 Banded PushUps + 20 Banded Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
60 minutes reading + Journaling
WHO DOESN'T LIKE AN EASY WIN?
Jan 02, 2022
by TODD BROWN
MY MOST BIGGEST WINS, every single one of them, came easy. In fact, I'd say there were surprising...
... because I wasn't trying.
Don't get me wrong.
There was sweat, blood and tears poured into every on one of them. But, my aim was different on that day than on many others.
I was there to race.
When I "try to win", when I've "got to have" a desired result I am divided.
Thinking more of winning than racing is draining.
When I'm simply racing, not concerned with the outcome...
... I have all my skills.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training
That's one reason I go to a lot of races: formal and training. To get rid of the jitters...
... so, I'm calm and able to focus on the racing.
Another thing I do is fill out my calendar as soon as it makes sense. Then, as I look at it and think of the upcoming events I visualize the days leading up to crossing the finish line.
Right now, the calendars are shipping FREE.
So is everything on the link below.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training
---
164.7
9.5 hrs
20 Pull Ups + 20 Banded PushUps + 20 Banded Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
210 minutes reading + Journaling
EZZZZZIN' INTO THE NEW YEAR
Jan 01, 2022
by TODD BROWN
WE BROKE TRADITION AND DID A BIG RIDE ON NYE VS NYD. A flattish 100 miles, Zone 2. The original plan was a gravel ride I'd dubbed DJ Diesel's MixALot of Surfaces 100k...
... but we received too much rain.
So we opted for road.
First, I should point out the harsh realities of riding with us:
- We leave on time.
- We don't wait for the dropped.
- We don't stop for mechanicals.
Why? Because we believe in...
- Respect for each other's time.
- Motivation through abandonment.
- Running good gear and being able to do our own repairs.
But, we broke all those rules yesterday.
I hope it's not a sign of things to come.
A few were dropped in the first 20 miles. Slowly eased off the back.
Then, a flat.
And another flat.
And yet a third rider flatted.
We kept going at an easy pace, thinking they would combine and catch us.
Then the doozy. Coulda been horrific. The double flat on a gaping pothole at 40+ mpgh.
Of course, it was a girl. And if she wasn't so nice, and her husband so pleasant, surely we'd have left them.
Maybe the fact that I was slowing to fix my own flat after being dropped helped...
... but, I hope not.
I really like our traditions.
Perhaps a tradition of making exceptions is a good idea?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
Fortunately, I had all 3 dynaplug heads with me. I needed the sharpest one. The hole was tiny, yet big enough it wouldn't seal.
Took me 3 minutes tops to plug it.
Here's what the plug looks like after being inserted in the tire.
It's the glob.
I mashed it down a bit, then rode it another 60 miles.
My experience is that it will last as long as the rest of the tire does. They are really good.
Fast.
Reliable.
Use promo code: NODISCIPLINE
Code expires 1/4/22
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dynaplug
---
166.2
8.5 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 10 Clap PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats
20 Recovery
70 minutes reading + Journaling
HAVE YOU RESOLVED ANYTHING?
Dec 31, 2021
by TODD BROWN
WHEN I RECEIVED THIS TEXT, my evil heart was warmed. For, here was a young man confronting the reality of his goals...
... and writing them out in pen!
I expect him to have a wonderful year and have some really good stories to tell.
Will you?
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Calendars are currently shipping for free.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
164.9
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Clap PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 Recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling
DYOU UNDERSTAND WAT I'M TALKIN' 'BOUT?
Dec 30, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE BEST PIECES OF ADVICE FOR RACING is from the great Stephen Covey. He talks about 7 habits of successful people, be we are racers and this habit is a winner...
... seek first to understand.
I get that...
... but not the way he meant it.
He wanted us to understand where other people are coming from before we try to get them to understand us...
... here's why that's gold.
Especially in road racing.
So much strategy.
So many calculations.
I spend at least the first half of any road race trying to understand what each of my competitors has planned...
... what part are they going to play.
That might be a fake attack or latching onto a break and sitting in or just pulling hard for a bit or dangling off the back. Could, should start as early as pulling into the parking lot and seeing who's there and who's hanging out, who looks friendly though in different kits.
First, seek to understand...
... then, at the finish line...
... you can be understood.
Got it?
Honestly, I don't know why I give away these ideas for freely. Fortunately, I don't race road too much so nobody really knows me anyway. Heaven forbid some yokel understand me and leaves me understanding at the line.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/all-raceday-bags
I can't guarantee results, but I can guarantee this...
... our RaceDay Bags™ are nearly indestructible. That's we have a 1 year warranty...
... the truth is, you could send one back after 5 years and we'd fix it.
It's so rare, I should probably just make it a lifetime warranty.
Maybe I will.
It pretty much is.
We'd love you to spread the word...
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/all-raceday-bags
---
167.3
7 hrs
Pull Ups + Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
70 minutes reading + Journaling
THE BEST ATHLETES HAVE NO DISCIPLINE
Dec 29, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THE BEST ATHLETES HAVE ZERO DISCIPLINE. While it may look like they have a spartan and regimented life, that's not what is...
... it's passion.
Somewhere in time, they woke up to an idea. That idea propels them 24/7.
They eat,
drink,
sleep...
... like athletes.
Discipline is hard.
Passion is easy...
... and natural,
for athletes.
Athlete are always on the lookout for ways to go faster... and there nothing faster than a Dynaplug.
Use promo code: NODISCIPLINE
Code expires 12/31/21
---
167
8.25 hrs
Pull Ups + Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
50 minutes reading + Journaling
DOES THIS SCARE YOU? IT SHOULD.
Dec 28, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I'M GONNA MAKE A GUESS ABOUT MOST OF YOU. Your goals suck. They are weak. And, I'll prove it. Because I know for too many of you...
... your goals don't scare the shift out of you.
Think about this.
When are we most alive on the bike...
... when we are closest to death.
For me, that's the finishing sprint or dropping off a steep ledge or tucked in at 60+ mph.
Our goals, the big ones, should be scaring us to death.
The really good ones are where we know if everything goes absolutely perfect...
leading up to the race,
during the race,
and crossing the finish line...
... then, and only then, we might accomplish our goal.
Because it demands EVERYTHING, it's scary.
We have to BE THAT PERSON that can make it happen...
... not just wanting.
Everybody wants.
We must be.
When I said I'd break my 20 year old PR at Leadville in 2019, it was scary. I wrote it out every morning. I made a wallet that had Leadville Sub 8:20 printed large on it. It ain't easy pulling that out in front of your friends.
The thing I like about the giant RaceDay Calendar™ is that it's hung in a conspicuous place and my top 3 goals are front and center...
... for all to see.
If we aren't failing, we aren't trying.
What are my top 3 goals for 2022?
I'm thinking PR Leadville (again), win a national championship, ride from the sandy beach at Doheny to the top of Snow Summit.
That's not set in stone yet, but it's getting close.
How the hell can I go faster at Leadville? Surfergirl, my biggest fan, even looked at me askance. I'm a grampa now, 60 freakin' years old in April. She knows how much I put in last time and how many miracles we had. Ouch.
Win a national? I think it's within in me, either the crit or MTB marathon... but it would take a lot of luck. Crit sprints are always a roll of the dice, and the MTB marathon is in MD... I hate flying - this is a big one.
Doheny to Snow Summit is at least 130 miles, 15-20,000 feet of vert, on dirt and asphalt, across the concrete jungle, and the final 9000' will be on the sun exposed southern slopes. Alone.
My palms are sweating.
I hope yours are too, as you consider your big goals for 2022.
May you be scared,
very scared.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training
This is the wallet I carried around with me for 8 months.
Every time I pulled it out I was reminded of that goal.
When you select the wallet, there's a button below Quantity. That's where you enter in your goal.
It's kinda like putting your money where you mouth is...
... it takes guts.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training
---
165.8
7 hrs
Pull Ups + Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
60 minutes reading + Journaling
THE BENEFITS OF COLD THERAPY
Dec 27, 2021
by TODD BROWN
SOMETIMES I PURPOSELY UNDERDRESS. When would that make sense? What could be the purpose? Well, it's not just frolicking about the house, I'm talking about riding fast...
... out in the cold, harsh world.
The purpose, I learned a long time ago, is because it feels good. I feel alive, connected to my animal nature.
Then, I started studying Wim Hof and got some excellent confirmation bias going.
Does this make sense to you?
Because we wear clothes and artificially control the temperatures at home and at work. we've greatly reduced the natural stimulation of our bodies, atrophying the age-old mechanisms related to our survival and basic function. Because these deeper physiological layers are no longer triggered, our bodies are no longer in touch with this inner power. The inner power is a powerful force that can be reawakened by stimulating these physiological processes through the Wim Hof Method.
It does to me.
Today I suffered such a fate. The app said 45, and reality said 35. It was so cold in my superlight RaceDay gloves...
... I lost some feeling and much dexterity in my fingers.
The toes were headed that direction as well...
... and the nose dripped and dripped.
I love it.
I'm alive.
Plus, there are benefits:
- It's healthy, getting that circulation going strong.
- It builds confidence, knowing you can survive the temporary pain.
- You learn your limits.
That's just riding.
In the 4-Hour Body, Tim Ferriiss shared a weight-loss hack. The ice bath. By lowing your core temperature your body burns more calories to warm back up.
But, the one I've come to love is that wonderful feeling as the sun's warmth spreads across the day...
... and the feeling returns in my extremities.
That
is
priceless.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
You know what else is priceless?...
... seeing your goals become reality.
And there's nothing like a giant RaceDay Calendar™ to help you out.
Right now, they SHIP FREE.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
165.3
7 hrs
Pull Ups + Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
50 minutes reading + Journaling
THE LITTLE KID SECRET TO BIG TIME POWER
Dec 26, 2021
by TODD BROWN
A VERY WISE COACH suggested we become like little children. Since I like to apply great teachings wherever possible...
... here's what I've discovered and how we can get a lot faster by being more child-like.
First, it's not because they are...
humble
trusting
quick to rejoice
quick to forgive
... nor is it that...
they love with their whole being.
... those are wonderful traits.
But, I'm talking about something kids do a lot better than 99.9% of adults.
They lift with their legs...
... by squatting,
not bending,
... all day long.
Trust me, I've been watching my own kid's little kid this weekend.
He squats throughout the day...
... just like you will be doing when you apply my soon to be released app, RaceDay Ready...
... to develop bigtime power.
Is squatting what the great coach meant when he encouraged us to become as little children?
Probably not.
But, then again, all great coaches teach on multiple levels.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/nutrition
Great coaches encourage us to feed our minds and bodies with good stuff.
Here's some good stuff.
Use promo code: CHILDLIKE
... and save 20%.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/nutrition
---
166.2
8.5 hrs
Pull Ups + Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
Stretch and Hypervolt
120 minutes reading + Journaling
THE CHIPS & SALSA VARIANT
Dec 25, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I LOVE A GOOD CONSPIRACY THEORY. Just chewing on a big What If? and spitting occasionally, with the fellas. So, let me share my thoughts...
... on The Great Reset.
With the tremors of the vicious Holiday21 Virus rocking our waistlines, I'm particularly concerned about the Chips & Salsa Variant.
There seems to be no way to stop it...
... from destroying our seams.
But, it's actually worse than it appears.
Because, though many of us have some Natural Immunity due previous exposure to Holiday20, many are just waking up to the fact that if the new yoga pants didn't fit this morning...
... It's only gonna get worse between now and Jan 1.
Many gyms are already bracing for capacity to be overwhelmed in early January. And, Lord, bless the server farms and remote coaches dedicated to reaching every single soul...
... succumbing to the feared Chips & Salsa Variant.
What can you do to protect yourself?
Get on your scales,
reset your goals,
lift heavy,
and ride.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Of course, there's nothing more powerful for your own great reset than signing up for a gnarly race or die and circling that date in red...
... on a giant RaceDay Calendar™
We can barely make these fast enough...
... RaceDay Calendars™ have been proven safe in all ages.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
165.8 again
7 hrs
Pull Ups + Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
No recovery
25 minutes reading + Journaling
LA NOCHE BUENA
Dec 24, 2021
by TODD BROWN
YEARS AGO, LIVING IN MEXICO, I learned about La Noche Buena. Literally translated: The Good Night. Turns out for our neighbors to the south Christmas Eve...
... is a bigger celebration than Christmas Day.
Different people.
Unique culture.
Beautiful.
We have our own culture. Our lingo. Our customs. Our good nights before big races...
... the gifts we give ourselves.
For what else can we call an event that keeps our goals aligned, our health in tip top shape, our friendships strong and diverse?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Races are where we find out who's training has been naughty and who's has been nice.
We can barely make these fast enough...
... RaceDay Calendars™ are def part of our culture.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
165.6 again
8.5 hrs
Pull Ups + Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
No recovery
5 minutes reading + Journaling
LIFE'S BEEN GOOD
Dec 23, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT BEING GREAT that is just plain infectious. Doesn't matter who it is or what they are doing...
... they are great.
They figure out what they're great at, and do it over and over again...
... and we love it.
We wanna be great, too.
Last night, I found myself listening to the great Joe Walsh's Funk 49.
Recorded live.
On YouTube.
A million versions.
All of 'em great.
Which got me thinking about how much fun it is to ride bikes.
The speed. The rush. The whoosh of gravity.
We may never win a race, be famous, or get paid, but you can bet you lycra covered buns...
... nobody's ever ripped that corner near your house like you have.
Be great.
Like the song goes...
... Ride all day, Sleep all night.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
If you have some weather to battle, you'll love the KOM jacket.
It's pretty much all I wear if it's chilly.
- It completely cuts the wind.
- It breathes
- It packs up and fits in your jersey pocket.
- It fits snug vs being a parachute.
Use promo code: CHARITY. You'll save $21.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
---
164.6 again
6.5 hrs
Pull Ups Clap PushUps + Heavy Squats
No recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling
WHO'S DESERVES COAL FOR CHRISTMAS?
Dec 22, 2021
by TODD BROWN
BOY OH BOY, some of the fella's definitely deserve coal for Christmas. Today, on our friendly group ride, charging like a tsunami for the sprint, things got a little crazy, doors got shut...
... it happens.
In fact, I had my lane closed and I was forced right into the fence...
... as we coasted and gasped, and a hockey game broke out.
Guys off bikes.
Just crazy.
Don't get me wrong. I can become as enraged as the next guy when people are dangerous...
... I ain't no saint.
But, then...
... let it go, bro.
As the Buddha taught...
... How can I suffer when I'm not thinking of myself?
As Paul shared...
... For charity... seeketh not her own.
As the Grinch discovered...
... What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas... perhaps... means a little bit more!
It does mean more...
... starting with charity. (here's a refresher)
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
You might give someone that jacket off your back, but probably not this one.
Not that it wouldn't be great, but it's so incredibly designed for racing that most would not be able to put it to good use.
You, however, could and should put it to good use.
It's pretty much all I wear if it's chilly.
- It completely cuts the wind.
- It breathes
- It packs up and fits in your jersey pocket.
- It fits snug vs being a parachute.
Use promo code: CHARITY. You'll save $21.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets
---
165.6 again
7 hrs
10 Pull Ups 10 Clap PushUps 10 Heavy Squats
HyperVolt & Stretch
30 minutes reading + Journaling
WHAT'S SO BAD ABOUT HOOKING UP?
Dec 21, 2021
by TODD BROWN
DO YOU EVER JUST WANT TO HOOK UP? I do. And, I sure did today. So I put myself out there and got ready to lay down...
... for a quickie.
We have a network of new trails that were built in the summer and fall. They never really packed in. Instead, they were chunky and dusty...
... and very loose.
Riding on trails like that is fine practice, but not nearly as fun as they are after a good rain like we had a few days ago...
... today was the kind of hooking up I like to do.
Hitting berms.
Carving turns.
Carrying lots of speed.
Snagging PRs.
Nothing wrong with that.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
Of course, the best hook up over here is the PEDALposse.
- Save 25% on everything we make and sell
- Get a monthly gift
- Special access to events and apps.
Check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership
---
166 again
6.5 hrs
15 Pull Ups 15 Clap PushUps 20 Heavy Squats
HyperVolt & Stretch
65 minutes reading + Journaling
WHY IS THIS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR?
Dec 20, 2021
by TODD BROWN
IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR, as the saying goes, because tomorrow is like a primer for what is to come...
... it is the shortest day of the year.
I know that.
I look forward to it.
I'm already sick of riding in the dark, with lights, and layers of clothing.
Just knowing the days will only get longer after the 21st puts me in a good mood. It get's me thinking ahead to the January 1st...
... when the next race season begins.
Doesn't matter how far out that first race is...
... we're gonna be ready.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
Especially those of us who are already starting to fill out the giant RaceDay Calendar™.
You need one of these, now.
Order now and get FREE SHIPPING!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™
---
166
7 hrs
15 Pull Ups 30 PushUps 20 Squats
HyperVolt & Stretch
65 minutes reading + Journaling
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