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Strava Widgets Styling

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DOES YOUR DOG BITE?

THE GREAT INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU encounter with a dog is classic.  The dog is off leash, he asks Does your dog bite? The answer is, No.  He bends to pet the dog...

... only to have the dog viciously latch on to his hand!

I thought you said your dog does not bite?

That is not my dog.

I thought about that since Surfergirl has...

  • demanded
  • pleaded
  • asked

... that I let her track me on my rides.

I feel like a dog on a leash.

The Jason Bourne in me wants none of that.

There's nothing to hide,
when I ride.

But, really?

She does have a point.

I often venture into the wild.

Signs with warnings of mountain lions and snakes about.

Trails are often treacherous to the bike, 
and potentially me.

Humans few and far between.

If, if, if I should need a rescue,
which I never have...

... I'll just need two things.

A cell signal...

... and a friend who cares.

It's kinda romantic when ya think about it,
guess we're doing all right. 

---

168.2
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
69

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

HOW MY LITTLE PRACTICE LOOP TOOK ME DOWN

I SET OFF TO POUND MY PRACTICE LOOP.  The profile is jagged, lots of single track, and...

... I'm trying to crack 90 minutes.

Today's failure is why it's so important to practice racing.

Here's the dill.

This course is very hard to stay fueled on...

... almost impossible to drink, forget about eating.

Which meant I was tuckered out, with 4 miles to go.  The last 30ish minutes are pretty dern steep.

With about 20 minute warm up,
winging it on 1/2 bottle and 100 calories was a weak effort.

Just not enough.

Strava called a Massive Relative Effort, 
giving the workout a score of 192.

I'll try it again in a couple of weeks.

This time with 400 calories, 
and 30 ounces of water,
in a Camelbak.

There just isn't time to suck on a bottle,
the bladder hose is easy to grab,
and once in my mouth,
handsfree.

Ya can't figure that out without simulating what ya might be racing...

... in real world conditions.

---

169.1 lbs (dropping some of these will speed things up, too)
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
67

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?

 


>

SPEED AND BRAKES, NOT ALWAYS OBVIOUS

THERE'S A TECHNICAL, ROCKY SECTION on part of a local trail.  First-timers walk it, new riders use a slow approach, locals...

... let it rip.

They know something.

Speed makes it much easier to glide over the the treachery.

It's counterintuitive.

Disc brakes are the same way.

They rub.

We pry 'em apart and reinsert the wheel.

Soon into the ride they are rubbing again.

Why?

The pads are worn out.

You'd think they would stop touch the disc or barely work when running thin.

That's the way rim brakes work when the pads are worn down.

Not discs.

Counterintuitive.

Which why we alwaysalwaysalways check our brake pads before a race...

... so we hit the tricky stuff with speed.

---

167.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
66

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

DO YOU D.H.T.?

 WE MAY NOT BE PRO.  Our equipment may be lacking, our preparation woeful, our  focus far from singular...

... which makes it all the more impressive.

When we, you and me...

... Do Hard Things.

Just like the pros,
but on a whole other level.

They level up,
get a pay check.

Our objective has nothing to do with money, and...

... everything to do with commitment.

Here's the cool part.

People see it.

Our family, friends, work associates, neighbors, etc.

They get inspired.

Maybe not to ride 100 miles or run a marathon or do an Ironman.

Doesn't matter.

The ability to D.H.T. can be applied to anything...

  • changing diapers in the middle of the night
  • studying instead of clubbing
  • making 100 cold calls/day
  • working 80 hrs a week for a season
  • pushing a car off to the side of the road
  • leading volunteers to repair after a disaster strikes

... once we learn we have it within us.

---

169.1 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work today
10 minutes recovery 
180 minutes reading + Journaling 
66

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?

 


>

WE NEED A METRIC FOR THIS

THE FIRST TIME I SAW SHIMANO'S INTEGRATED SHIFTING, dubbed SIS, I knew there was no chance in a sprint without it.  Sure we'd perfected the lost of art of...

... sprinting, letting go of the handlebars with one hand to shift.

But, what was the point?

It was useless.

Shimano changed the game, all because...

... Gripshift had changed the game.

Gripshift morphed into SRAM.

Shimano gave us electric shifting.

SRAM did it better with wireless.

How is that my new Kindle got me thinking of this?

Simple.

Kindle changes the reading game.

Which got me thinking about another game changer, Training Peaks.

It's pretty cool.

All kinds of data.

But, one metric is missing and would...

... be so funny to have.

A measurement for how bad a ride sucks...

  • Freezing rain
  • Frying pan heat
  • Mile long hike-a-bike
  • Gail force headwinds
  • Countless mechanicals

... indicating our badassness for getting it done,
not quitting.

For example, we rolled the dice this morning on a 38% chance of rain.

No big deal, right?

3 hours in, we face another hour of driving headwind and relentless rain...

... the suckometer was needling past halfway.

  • Hands were edging towards inoperable.
  • Too wet and involved to eat carbs
  • Feet sloshing

Not terrible.

But, somewhere on the ride data it woulda been nice to see...

... the badassometer read out.

Just fer fun.

See where the day's suckiness ranked against other such rides over time.

Time to go back the Kindle...

... under the blankies.

Me still cold.

---

167.9 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
67 

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?

 


>

LEARNING TO RIP FROM MARCH MADNESS

BALL AND STICK SPORTS are typically concerned with, and built around, offense and defense.  How do we...

... apply that thinking to our endurance addictitions?

Do we have offense?

Defense?

Yep.

Offense

  • Riding, running swimming time
  • Weight lifting
  • Racing and competitive group rides
  • Upgrading equipment - new, shiny stuff
  • Hiring a coach
  • Fine tuning the bike fit
  • Developing our handling skills

Defense

  • Recovery work
  • Sleep
  • Proper nutrition
  • Accountability partner(s)
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Stretching
  • Allies to work with when falling behind

And before you say I've misplaced one of those, we all know...

... the best defense is offense and visa versa.

That's not the point.

The point is to figure out...

... how to incorporate a great offense and defense in our limited time.

---

167.8 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery 
180 minutes reading + Journaling 
62

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

TWO OF LIFE'S MYSTERIES

THERE TWO MYSTERIES THAT SCIENCE can't explain.  AI doesn't have the answer, either. But's they are facts just the same.  For example...

... why do beginners get all the flats?

Riddle me that one LycraMan.

You know it's true.

You know if you invite a new, excitedtobethere, rider along, there's gonna be a flat.

Waywaywayway more often than the experienced riders will experience.

Makes no sense.

Just like why more bike shops don't have a comfy couch to wait for that...

.... just a few more minutes...

repair.

Maybe a coffee table showcasing

  • A colorful catalog of their favorite products
  • Samples of their go to sports drinks or things to chomp
  • Gotta have tools to check out

I was thinking of another mystery as I swapped out my worn disc brake pads...

... why more of us don't learn the basics of maintenance. 

---

168.7 lbs (the struggle is real)
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery 
180 minutes reading + Journaling 
63

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

THE PRIDE CYCLE QUEST

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE THAT YOU'RE PROUD OF?  Could be anything, but let's stay on point with athletic endeavors because it's important...

... to harness this concept.

The Pride Cycle Quest.

It's also dangerous,
if we let it get the best of us.

For me, at least, it's all about the quest.

Can I do it?

And, it's a cycle...

  • Pick the outrageous result to chase
  • Train for it.
  • Do it.

... and pick another quest.

I don't really care if anybody else thinks it's cool,
so few understand us anyway.

It's internal.

Am I proud of that result?

It's only dangerous if we are chasing likes and kudos and cheers...

... from the world.

It's not about that.

It's about the quest.

It's personal.

I'm happiest when I have at least one per year.

That's my cycle of pride.

---

167.9 lbs 
7.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
62

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

CHASING GHOSTS

PATHS BECOME TRAILS, trails become roads, roads become highways.  It's evolution, and underneath it all are the ghosts...

... who got it started.

We think we're blazing a trail,
when we are really just going along with the crowd.

I was thinking about the day my longgone granpappy came to watch me race a criterium.

It was all new to me.

We wizzed past him every lap.

But, the laps were long...

... and he could barely see at that stage.

Afterwards, he told me how it was years before, when he was young.

I thought it would be in a velodrome and I'd be able to see you entire race.

Clueless me had no idea velodrome racing was the only bicycle racing 100 years ago.

Prior to that, it was racing bicycles long distance, on dusty...

... gravel roads.

In other words, we gone from...

  • gravel
  • to velodrome
  • to road
  • to bmx
  • to mtb
  • to gravel

... so why is gravel "new"?

It's not.

We're all just chasing ghosts who've gone before.

---

168 lbs 
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
62

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

THIS AIN'T NO TIME FOR FOOLING AROUND

WHAT IS THE BASELINE?  The minimum effort to do and consider the week a win?  It's important to have the least acceptable effort in mind...

... and make it happen.

Riding in the rain will make you think things like that.

Like, why the heck am I doing this?

Which is exactly what I was thinking as the skies opened an hour away from home.

Because I made a plan.

A public commitment.

Accountability.

Yesterday, in the sunshine and 72 degrees I committed to do the following this week:

  • 15 pull ups, 50 push ups, 10 squats daily
  • Ride 14 hours this week
  • Drop 3 lbs 

Easy to do when the weather is good, 
and the day lazy.

The public commit was to the RaceDay Rippers,
who also hold me accountable each week when we check in.

I'm two months out from my next quest, the SurfNSummit.

The plan is on my RaceDay Calendar. 

Some say Show me your calendar and I'll know what important to you...

... and yes, Date Night better be on there each week.

We have a few of the Giant RaceDay Calendars left, and you can save 25% since a quarter of the year is nearly past by using promo code:

CAL25OFF

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2024-giant-raceday-calendar

Here is the code:

CAL25OFF

Nod to the great Talking Heads for the inspiration

This is ain't no party, this ain't no disco, this ain't no time for foolin' around

---

168.9 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
59

Do you want to Rip On Raceday?


>

HOW TO STAY SLOW...

IT'S SUPER EASY TO STAY SLOW, and just as easy to stay fast.  To stay slow, do what your slow friends do and...

... expect to get fast.

The problem with actually getting fast,
nobody gives you credit.

For the most part, they can't see or appreciate, and will never know...

... how hard we work.

And, we've got to be okay with that.

To commence,
recognition be damned.

To be fast, do what you fast friends do...

... and expect to get fast.

Do.
Expect.

---

168.4 lbs 
7.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
58

Rip On Raceday

 


>

WWDGD?! - 25 WEEKS TO GO

I FELT GOOD ENOUGH THIS WEEK TO DREAM of getting my fitness back and setting unrealistic goals.  Is there anything better than that?  Getting to a place to...

... dare to go for it.

After pushing hard for nearly 3 hours, we had a choice.

Take it easy or do the hurtful climb?

500' in a mile doesn't sound like much...

... unless it's the last climb of a fast day.

We were gonna skip it, and then Love Watts yelled...

... WWDGD!

Huh?

What Would David Goggins Do?!

There was no choice at that point, because all of us have streeeeeeeeetch goals this summer.

It was fine.

Slower than I'd like...

... but, compared to last week waywayway better.

And so the journey begins.

The countdown to Gravel Nationals.

Here's where I'm at.

You can see my fitness score at the very bottom.
Down from over 50%, 18 months ago.

Weight, 168ish.
Up 10 lbs, 18 months ago.

Vision is still messed up.
Way off from what I considered one of my few advantages racing off road.

Can I be ready September 8th, 2024?

It's gonna be fun, 
and frustrating.

WWDGD?

Go for it.

Every
single
freakin'
opportunity.

---

168.2 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
60

Rip On Raceday


>

WHEN THE RACE PLAN GOES TO HECK IN A HANDLEBAR

IT WAS A ROUGH START, things weren't going smoothly at all.  It was causing a lot of stress and internal turmoil.  Energy I'd hoped to reserve for...

... more important sections of the event.

Ayyyy, what to do?

What I always do... 

... but, forget to do.

Think of of the things going right...

  • I felt good
  • I'd started on time
  • My prep was perfect

... other words be grateful for the good.

My energy shifted.

I calmed down.

Focused on getting down to business.

Wound up having a spectacular day...

... at the office.

Tomorrow's race should go a lot better, and if it doesn't...

... I know what to do.

---

168.2 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery 
600 minutes reading + Journaling 
56

Rip On Raceday


>

YOU INSURED FOR THAT?

WELL, THE BILLS ARE COMING and I'm thinking about you and me.  For years I've looked at health insurance as lame. Struggled mentally, sometimes economically...

... to pay that everlarger bill.

Why?

I never get sick.

Rarely, and I mean rarely, do I see a doctor.

I'm already doing all they would recommend to get better...

  • eat good
  • skip sugar
  • get plenty of rest
  • and workout regularly

... why would I spend the $ on insurance?

It feels like I'm being duped.

Well, there are these events called...

... accidents.

They happen,
and are almost completely unplanned.

So, yeah, my bills are coming in and I'm happy as being at the to of the podium at my A race...

... 'cause it looks like almost all of it covered.

Sucks to be out 1000s...

... but, way better than being out 100s of thousands.

Just putting this out there 'cause I love you...

... get covered, if ya ain't.

====

Side Note:  has anybody tried insurance for bike like BikeInsure?  Asking for myself, just found out about 'em

---

167.2 lbs 
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
56

 


>

DO YOU LET POWER OR HR DETERMINE YOUR HARD VS EASY DAYS?

I HADN'T WORN MY HR MONITOR FOR DAYS.  It wasn't working consistently, so I left it parked in the drawer. Until today, I gave it a shot and it actually worked...

... it got me thinking about the levels of easy.

There's so easy...

  • I can barely feel the pedals
  • I can sing a song
  • I can easily talk
  • I am not sure

... and maybe a few more levels.

My goal today was to ride as close to the top of my Zone 2 as possible, without going over...

... the I'm not sure range.

I wasn't sure, because my heart rate was bouncing at the top of the range.  Meanwhile...

... my power was definitely over into a higher range quite often.

This is how I trained for decades, when I just had a HR monitor.

What's more important then...

... HR in Zone 2 or Power in Zone 2?

I'm gonna say, for me at least, HR is more important.  It is more reflective of how all systems are working given the effort and absorbs the little efforts when the terrain or other elements require a few more watts.

Here's a real world application.

When I'm racing something epic, like Leadville, I'm going off heart rate for my pacing, and using the power meter to keep things in check when I have to dig a little deeper to close a gap or clean a technical uphill section.

The reality is, for peak performance on the long efforts...

... it's good to have both.

If it's a short race, under an hour, well, you know...

... put the dadgum gadget in the back pocket and race on feel.

Same for a long day of adventuring, who cares about the data when we're out there.

Enjoy the ride.

We can analyze later.

---

168. lbs 
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
57

Rip On Raceday


>

SHOULD WE DO A HUNDRED RACES IN A YEAR?

YA WANNA GET GOOD, be a boss, strike fear in your frenemies, be the maker of things that happen...

... instead of wondering what happened?

Race.

A lot more.

100 times/year.

Think I'm crazy?

Think it's immmm po siiiiii ble?

Then don't do it.

Don't even try.

Keep wonderin',
misreading the moves.

Or, commit.

Do:

  • 2 zwifties 
  • 2 local races
  • 2 group rides 
  • 2 of your own personal courses for PR

We all have 52 chances a year,
to race twice a week.

No excuses.
Nothing but upside.

Heck, even a brain-damaged guy like me can do it.  

This week...

  • hammering my xc race loop Tuesday
  • group ride on weekend

... slaying myself today, getting crushed by the fellas Saturday.

Gotta start somewhere.
Gonna do what hurts and what I'm comfortable with.

Twice a week.

Oh... I know you're askin'...

... Why 100 times a year?

Because, every race is different.  

We'll see a lot of different situations.  

We're trying to see 'em all, or have a reallyreallyreally good feel for what is going to happen.

Simple as that.

Experience counts.

Get some.

It's free.

---

168.6 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
55

Are you ready to Rip On Raceday?


>

NOT GONNA LIE

WHEN I FINALLY CAME TO, I had one thing on my mind.  Not after first being knocked out, not after the morphine and other meds wore off, days after being home...

... I wanted to say one thing.

Not gonna lie.

I was hurting.

Stunned.

How could my crazy good health take such a drastic turn in seconds...

... this wasn't what I had planned for 2024.

8 weeks later, I'm improving.

I'd leave it there, but...

... not gonna lie.

I'm nowhere near where I was just prior, nor 12 months ago, nor 2 years ago.

I'm off.

I can work 4-5 hours,
then my brain needs a break.

I can ride my bike,
but I have no power,
off-road vision is shift.

I can talk to friends,
until I can't.

Something even more weird happened though.

Something few will admit or acknowledge or maybe even notice...

... when I took that blow to the noggin' it felt like my spirit left my body.

There's a disconnectedness.

I know things aren't quite right.

Will they return or is life just going to be different?

Not gonna lie...

... this is new territory.

Now, I'm being as honest and transparent as possible in all I do.

My friend battling cancer taught me that,
the freedom of being honest.

Yes, I hid it from Surfergirl that on one of my first bike rides alone I was going down the road and thought I saw 4 ducks crossing the road in front of me...

... it was just two,
that's troubling.

Not gonna lie.

I kept riding.

Lying to myself it was all good,
hiding the truth if asked.

What is easier, being honest with ourselves and those around us or pulling the lycra over our eyes and theirs?

To remind myself of my new commitment...

... I made a special kit, see above.

That's the kind of thing I was looking forward to in 2024.

New designs, 
new patterns,
new fabrics.

The good newsy stuff.

If you're into the rawness of honesty, maybe you'll like this too.

It's patterned after one of my all-time favorite Porsche's.

Check the full kit here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ngl-collection

Use this promo code on this kit to save 30%: NGL30

Code expires on 3.15.24.

---

168.6 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
54

Rip On Raceday

 


>

HE SWITCHED TEAM, AND IT...

TODAY AN AMERICAN WON PARIS-NICE, an 8-Day stage race in France.  A youngun, 25 years old.  He'd never done it before, and wasn't picked as a favorite...

... except he picked himself.

A long time ago.

When riding for a less professional, less scientific team he was spending his own cash on equipment and training to up his game.

Something the top teams covered and pursued relentlessly.

He jumped at the chance to upgrade to the current dominant force in European road racing this season.

Would it matter?

I'd say it is clear.

What's interesting is how many of are trapped like a monkey...

... failing to let go, when we know we should.

Not only did he upgrade his team and training, but placed a huge bet on himself in a daring and startling breakaway with fellow US racer Brandon McNulty.

When you are a pro...

... winning actually is everything.

Way to go Mateo Jorgenson.

---

168.4 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
20 minutes reading + Journaling 
53

Rip On Raceday



 


>

HOW TO GET FASTER FOR DUMMIES

APPARENTLY, LOVE WATTS FORGOT our commitment to go easy on the way up the coast.  Which meant we had time to do the biggest climb I've done this year...

... 2 hours and 2000' of climbing for our "warm up".

At the usual time, riders flocked in and we were off.

It felt good to do my first group ride of the year...

  • to see the guys
  • get whooshed along
  • and see some higher power numbers

... until the first overpass.

Where I was off the back.

Caught on at a light.

Off again.

On again.

My breathing and wheezing needed a muffler.

On the next power climb, normally 2ish minutes...

... I needed an extra minute or three.

They were gone.

Yeah, they are nowhere near as fast as I am...

... they're a heckuvalot faster.

Am I good with that?

Yeah, they've always been faster than lit'l ol' me.

Now I just need patience to close the gap to where...

... they are less faster.

So, here's the plan that I've used many a year...

... pick a spot beyond where I got popped today.

Make it just a little further each week.

Corner by corner,
Hill by hill.

Progress > Perfection

--- 

167.6 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
54

 


>

IT WAS ABOUT THE TRUTH, NOT ARMS RACE

I HATE TIMETRIALS.  I mean, I like 'em, but, yeah, I hate 'em.  It's not because I'm not great at 'em, and trust me I'm not.  It's because...

... they hurt so dang bad.

Not only that, it's...

  • lonely
  • painful
  • humbling

... is there anything more truthful than getting passed by your minute man?

No drafting.
No wily cunning.

Nothing matters except...

... who is the strongest,
and who can suffer the most.

Oh, wait, one more thing matters...

... who's got the most money to afford the most advanced gear.

When everything tiny thing adds time and seconds matter...

... it can turn into an arms race.

I'm okay with that to a point.

Butttttttttt, don't ya think participation would rise...

... if we raced Merckx-style?

At least at the amateur level?

On our road bikes vs tt bikes?
With road helmets?
And "normal" road wheels?
And... you get the point right?

As much as I hate/love a tt, I truly appreciated Tucson Bicycle Classic for making their tt be done on road bikes the last to years.

It's just a lot more fair/approachable/inviting...

... and equally miserable for all.

That's the truth.

Side note:  I think I love XC MTB racing because it's basically a mass start time trial.  The terrain naturally and quickly separates us.  

--- 

168.4 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
51

 

 


>

WERE YOU AS DORKY AS THIS?

WHEN I WAS JUST GETTING INTO THE SPORT, I was such a dork.  A small percentage of you will disagree, maybe even swear at me, but nothing says...

... stay clear, like a mirror.

I know, I know, some of us are damaged and can't look over our shoulders.

Too stiff,
crap balance.

I was neither of those.

I was a spry young newb.

Excited to ride and race.

And my girlfriend of the time wanted to get me something cool.

I quickly mounted the mirror to the end of my handlebar - see pic above.

I thought it was rad.

Perfect for the high speeds and shoulder banging of crit racing,
which I loved.

Rather than turn my head and telegraph my plans,
I could take a peek at my mirror.

Nobody else thought it was cool...

... and they made an obnoxious and clear point of it.

If my hairy legs,
questionable bike handling,
roadrashed arms and legs weren't a give away...

... the mirror, made it clear.

I was not to be trusted in the bunch.

Here's the dill.

They were right.

Because let's face it, anybody focused on the past...

... doesn't have a shot at a winning future.

--- 

167.8 lbs 
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
50


>

I DON'T ALWAYS RIDE IN THE RAIN...

I COULD SEE THE STORM BREWING.  Like a crazy fool, I rolled out anyway even though I was certain to...

... get caught in the rain.

Trust me, I am a fair weather rider.

Gimme 70 degrees,
and a lite breeze.

So why ride?

Two reasons.

One embarrassing.
One legit...

  • Poorly executed work day
  • It rains on raceday
  • Commitment

Yeah, I had all this work scheduled and a timeline to follow....

... and, well, ya know, things didn't go as planned.

That's 1.

Since it does rain on raceday, and I've never let that stop me from lining up...

... it's good to practice from time to time.

That's 2.

And I committed to myself to get my slothful self back in shape.

That's 3, a bonus.

So which one's embarrassing?

  • crap planning
  • useless prep
  • silly commitment

Well, I dunno about you...

... but, I'm cool with

  • keeping my commitments,
  • being prepared for all conditions,
  • even when things don't go as planned.

--- 

167.4 lbs 
7ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
50

 


>

IT FEELS LIKE THE FIRST TIME!

I WOULD CLIMB ANY MOUNTAIN, ride across the stormy sky.  It seemed like I'd waited a lifetime, spent so much time in recovery...

... it felt like the first time!

The MTB.

Like it never did before,
like I'd opened up the door.

Finally!

What is it?

I guess it's just the rawness of nature,
bringing out the rider in me.

Dawgawn I'd missed it.

Carving turns,
wiggling up technical sections,
brushing the thistles,
hanging my lycra off the back in the steeps.

Why today?

Well, to be honest, today was a breakthrough on my vision.

The double-vision I've been dealing with was greatly diminished.

Partly time.
Partly exercises for my eyes.

One of you loyal readers,
one of us,
took the time to share with me a gift for everyone.

Tools for increasing our eyesight,
the kind we need to quickly assess the best way to rip it up off road (on road, too).

You can check the tool out here: https://www.readbetweenthelions.org.  Go to the K-12 program.

It's free.

Thanks Rick!

Makes me wonder what else we can learn from each other?

Speak up y'all!

Let's get betterfasterstronger...

... together.

Have you checked out https://pedalindustries.com/pages/rip-on-raceday-network?

(yeah, this post is a nod to Foreigner)

--- 

168.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

WHADAYA THINK OF UNDULATING TERRAIN?

WE HAVE SOME WEIRD LINGO.  Have you ever heard any body, ever, use the phrase undulating terrain?  Why would they?  When you're motor-powered...

... who cares about the terrain!

Human-powered,
totally different story.

Every bump in the road and trail counts.

The longer we're out there,
the more it counts.

Sooooooooo...

... whadaya think of undulating terrain?

Do you love it?

Or, do you prefer...

  • flat
  • downhill
  • tailwinds
  • straight up
  • headwinds

... lots choices when we roll out.

Me?

Well.

There are times when I'd give my chamois pad for a flat road with a tailwind.

Days when I feel so amazing I just wanna climb and climb and climb.

But, faced with a choice...

... give me undulating.

Ups.
Downs.
Lots a turns.

That's the ride I choose.

--- 

169.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

ACTION WINS EVERY TIME

WHY WAS IT SO MIND BLOWING?  Yesterday's Strade Bianchi race was so shocking to me.  Because, to me, all the pundits...

... missed the point.

Sure, the favorite won.

This was the inspiring part...

  • he told everybody where he'd attack in advance of the race
  • made a decisive attack 81 km from the finish
  • never looked back
  • and won

... who wouldn't want to be able to do that?

What blew my mind 
was what the talking heads missed.

This athlete,
is a racer of action.

He had a plan,
and went for it.

Could it have failed?
Most definitely.

Could he have looked foolish?
For sure.

Could he have lost the race outright?
Absolutely.

Did he?
No.

Because he took action.

You miss 100% of shots you don't take.
- Wayne Gretzky

--- 

167.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

QUESTION: IS THIS A HIGH DEMAND SPORT?

I WAS LISTENING TO SOME GUYS ARGUE about whether or not was their religion was high demand, and it got me thinking is ours?  Are endurance sports...

... high demand?

Yes.
No.

For me, and maybe for you, too...

... its high demand.

Just consider...

  • Training
  • Fueling
  • Resting

... these are the biggies.

They are priceless,
in a sense.

Which is why the are so easy to screw up,
and so misunderstood by lookers on.

We can't put...

  • Training time
  • Good fueling choices
  • Proper sleep and recovery

... on a credit card.

We've got to demand it from ourselves...

... but, is it really demanding when we love the results?

--- 

166.2 lbs 
7 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

THE UNCORKED ZONE

 

IF YOU'RE INTO HOT RODS, then you know what uncorked means.  In simple terms, all that junk that keeps the exhaust quiet and lawful is chucked...

... giving us that ultra loud and mean sound.

We have that racing and training, too.

And, if we're smart, we only hit it every so often.

You know what I'm talking about, right?

Zone 2 is corked.

  • easy to breathe
  • talk while riding
  • and go forever.

Today was not Zone 2.
I was uncorked, a bit.

Allowing myself for the first time in 2 months to stretch the legs was amazing.

The accompanying wheezing and gasping for air…

… I don’t know if it was hot rod mean, but it was loud.

Hadn’t heard that in too long…

… ain’t gonna hear for 5 or so days.

Time to add some intensity the smart way.

Polarized.

If ya wanna solid refresher on this approach,
take a listen to this: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-fast-podcast-triathlon-ironman-cycling-coaching/id1400770015?i=1000596124366

Simply, 80-90% of our training should sound like a Tesla...

... cruising through the neighborhood.

That way we are fresh and ready to get after it like the pic above.

Let the rubber...

...  burn, baby burn.

--- 

166.9 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
56

 


>

RESULTS DON'T MEAN SHIFT

I DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU ARE ON THE JOURNEY, but I can tell ya this: whether you're just starting out, coming back from injury, at the top of your game, you're gonna fail...

... if results count.

Trust me on this.

I'm rebuilding.

My fitness is shift.
the skills, off.

I've been at the top and the bottom and there is one reason I was able to climb to max fitness and performance...

... I don't care about results.

I mean I do,
but they aren't the motivator.

Optimizing my ability,
having a blast.

Way more important.

Results are nice.

If they are everything... 

... quitting, giving up, and failure is on the horizon.

Don't let that happen.

How?

Relax.

We can't see...

... the great results in the making.

They're coming.

Guaranfreakingteed.

--- 

166.9 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
57 


>

ARE WE REALLY DOING THIS?

FOSTER GRANTS ASKED ME Are we really doing this? What kinda question is that...

... Dern straight we're doing it!

Was he hoping we weren't?

Was he doubtful we could do it?

By we, I mainly mean me.

Could you?

I mean, we're gonna have a brain damaged grampa who's been off the bike for months do it...

... can you keep up?

Finish?

What's he referring to?

Oh, just the most life changing ride in Southern California...

  • 100+ miles
  • 15,000+' of vertical gain

... some might consider it hard.

Others a challenge.

Most an adventure of a lifetime.

So, if you wanna support the old sack a lycra,
if outrageous calls to your soul...

... sign up.

It's free.
and fun.

Click here for deets and pics.

--- 

167.4 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
9 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
57 

Rip On Raceday

 


>

HOW NOT WHAT

LEARNING TO RIDE A BIKE is filled with excitement, fear, and lots of scrapes and bruises.  We press through because everyone we see on a bike...

... has a great big smile.

We want that,
the teacher wants it for us.

Finally we get it.

And, at least in my case, it stopped there.

Hall-ah-freakin-lu-yah!

What
and when
and who with

... were left up to me.

I'll be forever grateful for learning how...

... and the freedom to do it my way.

--- 

168.2 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
56 

Rip On Raceday


>

YOU DON'T NEED AN ALARM CLOCK TO WAKE UP, YOU NEED...

ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES I HAVE with our local morning group ride is that it starts at 6:30am.  If it was out my front door...

... not that hard.

It's not.

Takes me 50ish minutes to ride to the start,
which means I'm up at 5am.

Also...

... not that hard.

However, getting to bed at 9...

... is not my standard.

I'm more of a 930-10pm guy.

Therefore, if I don't hit the hay early...

... I'm foggy, at best, the rest of day.

Plus, slower on the bike.

Oh, there's a long list of shift that results from lack of sleep.

What's an athlete to do?

Before I tell, 
you are forewarned...

... this won't make you popular.

You might lose touch with friends, 
or lose them altogether.

We all have a choice...

... live our best lives or live a lower version.

This allows to tap into our superpower...

... set you alarm clock for bedtime.

Every.
Single.
Night.

Or suffer the consequences:

  • Inhibited ability to perform
  • Decreased handling skills
  • Quicker exhaustion
  • Decreased reaction time
  • Difficulty learning and decision making
  • Increased risk of injury
  • Increased risk for illness
  • Poor recovery
  • Memory issues
  • Weight gain
  • Poor balance
  • ... Low sex drive

Like I said,
it might be socially unpopular but...

... wouldn't you rather operate at your optimum?

I would.

---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

MILEMARKERS FOR DUMMIES

ONE OF THE KEYS TO RIPPING LONG RACES is remembering where you are.  Yeah, you're racing.  Yeah, you're clicking off the miles.  But...

... where the heck are you?

And, there's more than that.

  • Are you on track?
  • When is the next stop?
  • Does your support know when to expect you?

So, I always write down on a piece of tape with a sharpie my goals to be at certain locations at certain times...

... and stick it on my top tube.

This keeps all of us coordinate.

More importantly,
it keeps me focused.

The long races, 6+ hours, can be grueling.
They can wear us down to the point...

... of forgetting why we even signed up in the first place.

Looking down at the humble piece of tape,
seeing my goals...

  • engages my mind
  • re-centers my effort
  • keeps me on the pace

... snaps me back to the present moment.

I don't just use this practice for racing...

... I write down everything I plan to do,
and when I plan to have it done.

---

166.2 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No strength work
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

IS IT HABIT OR RITUAL?

THE SATURDAY MORNING RIDE.  We work all week, and with a little planning and luck we carve out some time to ride.  In the beginning...

... it takes some discipline.

Not the riding.

The commitment.

We are working to establish a habit.
For the most part, a good one.

But, that changes over time.

It becomes a ritual.

  • A set time to leave
  • An expected amount of time to be gone
  • The proper dress code observed
  • A dedicated place to meet
  • A consistent slaying of trails, gravel, pavement
  • A flogging of the sinners who are not as fit as they shouldcould be.

Yep, this is our ritual.
Our practice.
Our faith.

We made the jump.

We are far beyond
discipline and habit.

---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
12-0 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

WHAT DOES AI SAY ABOUT TRAINING METHODS USED 100 YEARS AGO?

I PINGED CHAT GTP AND SEVERAL OTHER AI regarding training methods of Belgians 100 years ago.  Why not?  A lot of knowledge is refined, regurgitated or plain ol' forgotten...

... maybe there's something to be rediscovered?

Oddly?
or, maybe not.

The answers across the AI were eerily similar.

I say eerily because who wants to live in a silo?

Anyway, 
here's the bottom line:

It’s important to note that these training methods were not as scientific or structured as they are today. Cyclists often relied on their own experience and intuition to guide their training. However, despite the lack of modern technology and scientific understanding, many Belgian cyclists were able to achieve impressive results using these methods.

Shocking!
I mean, shocking?

When it comes right down to it, is there anything better than...

... relying on our own experience and intuition to guide our training?

I don't think so.

Not when were really into it,
when we really know our bodies.

Me, for instance, I'm rebuilding my fitness.

I realized what a distraction it is to look at the data pouring across my little Wahoo screen.

  • Maybe I should put out more power?
  • Gosh, my heart rate is ____!
  • I've only gone X miles?

So, I fire up the Wahoo,
put it in my jersey pocket.

Time to ride on just experience and intuition...

... same thing I do when racing.

---

166.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

THE MOST HUMBLING RACE OF MY LFE

MY PAL PETE AND I DECIDED WE WERE REALLY FIT and that we could do anything with just a hint of training.  Racing bikes was kina ho-hum...

... so we signed up for a 10k running race.

We were so arrogant,
we rode our bikes 15 miles to the start.

We lined up in the back, 
because, you know, we were going to
squash these runners.

Gun goes off.

We quickly move forward.

Up to the top 50-100.

Really running.
Hard.

Suddenly, I notice I'm breathing way too loud.

Uh-oh.

My legs hurt,
my hips hurt,
everything hurts.

And, I'm moving backwards quickly.

Chubby guy cruises by.

Oldish lady...

... did she elbow me out of the way?

Kids are skipping and laughing and disappearing up the road.

But, it was the guy in flip flops who said...

... Hang in there, only 3 more miles...

... that really did me in.

Here's the dill.

On the outside, at the start,
looking at these racers,
I would have bet $10,000 on me and Pete.

Looking at competitors is a poor way to pass judgement...

... it's the inside, the heart, that counts.

 ---

166.2 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I KNOW YOU'RE NOT A LOSER LIKE THIS CAT

I was going to post this and then I went for a ride and decided it was too mean, whadaya think?... 

THERE ARE THREE MAIN THINGS LOSERS DO.  I say losers, in this case, meaning they are literally losing out.  If they persist, then, yeah...

... the other kind.

It always surprises me when people make these very basic mistakes.

Even if they are new, 
I find it,
perplexing.

I think you do, too.

Because, for us,
it's just second nature.

Probably because we have learned the hard way.

Not only that, we try and pass this basic knowledge along to every new rider we can.

Still, they...

  • Forget gear when going to a ride or race
  • Completely foul up their nutrition and bonk
  • Neglect the bike prep only to have mechanical difficulty

... and, we shake our heads.

They are losing out on a more excellent ride.

We deal with it,
they are our friends.

However, if it persists one of two things is gonna happen...

  • We don't invite them any more
  • We leave them behind

... because, well, you know they are....

How's that for setting up a shameless plug on why we do what we do?

  • The RaceDay Bag™ has a built in checklist to make sure we bring everything
  • It comes with a RaceDay Bike Check List, too, so bike is properly prepped
  • And an insane Never Forget Anything guarantee.

... that way my friends are always invited,
and never left behind.

 ---

166.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

I USED TO LOVE RAINY DAYS

THERE WAS A TIME WHEN RAINY DAYS were awesome.  Mostly, around here, it meant nobody was riding.  Not me, not anybody else.  Which was perfect...

... if I couldn't ride anyway.

You see the selfishness right?

If I can't ride,
I'm stoked you can't either.

It means nobody is getting in the secret miles.

But, that's hardly true these days.

It's not the trainers,
those have been around forever.

It's the virtual racing,
that is a game changer.

In fact, I know plenty of people who do a fair amount of their riding virtually.

  • It's available 24-7
  • Not hampered by weather
  • All the social connections of a group ride (with right equipment).

Can you blame them?

I can't.

But, I still blame the weather for my own lack of getting it done.

 ---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

CODDLED VS THROTTLED?

YEAH, THE RECOVER IS GOING PRETTY GOOD.  Spoke to my neuroscientist pal, who confirmed my suspicions.  It's good news for me...

... is it good news for you?

Well, yeah, if you taking the Rip On RaceDay 30-Day Challenge.

If you're not, then sit up and pay attention.

Here's what he said.

You're probably doing so well because...

  • you're exercising every day
  • not eating bread
  • staying away from grains
  • not drinking diet drinks or artificial sweeteners
  • eating plenty of veggies and protein
  • getting outside in the sunshine
  • lifting weights
  • getting plenty of sleep, 9-10 or more hours

... right?

I sheepishly said Yes.

Which was mostly true.

But, I gotta cut out all grains and all bread, even my beloved chips and salsa and special sour dough bread.  I've backslid on the diet drinks, those gotta go.  Other than that, I'm mostly on track.

Main thing I need to add is a lot more fish oil.  
Not a problem, I love sardines.

in other words, it's time to practice ALL that I preach.

So, how're you doing?  Yes, you my loyal reader.  How. Are. You. Doing?

Could you tighten things up a bit?

Or, do you need a serious crack in the head like I got to up your game?

Which brings me back to the title of this post, Coddled vs. Throttled?

Here's the dill, for me...

... I prefer to be throttled.

Put me on a ridiculously difficult course, in with the heavy hitters, tell me the honesttogosh truth...

... make me suffer!

Then, and only then, I might merit some coddling.

Maybe it's time for a serious challenge...

... and little coddling 30 days later?

Rip On RaceDay 30-Day Challenge

 ---

165.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I WONDER IF GIRLS DO THIS?

FOR THE MOST PART, we are a healthy lot.  We skip cigars, pass up the bars.  Well, then, where's a cyclist to go to share our struggles, solve our problems...

... shoot the shift?

Dudes,
we ride together...

... and we share, solve and shoot.

That's where we get it done.

What about the lady riders?

Where are they bonding and supporting?

There are so few of them, 
mostly they ride with guys...

... don't think I've ever see an all, or mostly, female group ride.

Is that why so few ladies ride, compared to men?

Are they missing what the guys are getting?

Is that the main reason guys ride?

 ---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

Are You Ready For A Hero's Journey?

I DID A POLE OF THE RACEDAY RIPPERS.  I asked them If they had to pick just one bike what would it be?  They had 4 options to pick from.  What would you answer be...

... you need the options first.

Here they are:

  • Road
  • MTB
  • Gravel
  • One of Each (acceptable though hard to explain to family and friends)

It came down to a tie between two options, evenly split.

33% for each.

Gravel and One of Each.

Why?

Well, what would your choice be?

Back to Why?

I think it comes down the basic human nature...

... we want to go on a journey.

Not just any journey.

One where we are heroic,
in our own minds at least.

That, I think, is the true appeal of "gravel" (such a dumb name)...

... the appeal of a bike that can handle mixed surfaces.

On that type of bike we have incredible freedom combined with the high likelihood of finding ourselves...

... in place far, far away from our predictable existence.

With luck we'll...

  • Shed some blood without breaking bones.
  • Find out we can do much more than we thought.
  • Gain new confidence, skill, and special experience.

... acquire our own superpowers.

Is it any wonder these bikes and events with mixed surfaces are exploding?

 ---

164.8 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

WHAT TO ASK A PROSPECTIVE COACH

THINKING OF GETTING A COACH?  Good.  You can get better faster by learning from an expert.  Be it a book, a video, a podcast.  Only a human can...

... answer this question.

The answer will instantly tell you if this relationship is gonna work out.

After small talk, after the coach's spiel, when the conversation stalls...

... ask this:

If we were meeting 3 years from now, looking back, what has to happen for you to be happy with my progress?

Trust me, conversation is gonna stay stalled.

Don't say a thing.

Wait for the answer.

Listen to what is said.

Ask yourself...

... Is this the kind of person I want to have a relationship with?

That's it.

I've used the question many times over the years, usually when hiring somebody.  There are lots of variations.

It works.

Learned it from the great Dan Sullivan.

---

162.6 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
150 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

How To Build Volume 101

IMAGINE YOU'RE STARTING FROM ZERO.  How do you build volume? Are there rules of thumb?  When do you introduce intensity?  Does it matter?...

... can you wing it?

Good questions.

Short answers:

  • Build volume as fast as you can, which isn't going to be very fast if you are starting from zero.
  • There are no rules of thumb, it's ruled by legs and lungs.  Do what you can.
  • Introduce intensity as soon as you want, it ain't going to be much.
  • Yes, it matters.

Long answer.

There are a number of good books on the subject.  Anything by Joe Friel will give you a good plan.  

You don't need a power meter, mainly because you're will not be putting out much power early on.  

But, you do need a heart rate monitor.

In the beginning of the first rides, the heart rate monitor will be exciting.  Then after a few miles, it will dim.  Reality will set in as that heart rate gets lower and lower because you have no stamina built up.  After a few weeks or months, the HR monitor will serve as a governor...

... holding you back.

This is good.

Because if you're tired, you can't do intensity properly.

Introduce the intensity one day per week.  

Don't look at the HR monitor too much, instead get after it.  Could be a group ride you want to desperately hang on to, a Zwift session with same obsession, or simply chasing that mystical PR you want to breatk.

Check the HR data when the ride is over.

Important answer:

  • Pick an event far in the future - you need time.
  • Set an insane goal.
  • Get registered.

Nothing exceptional will come with your training without a date with destiny...

... that's paid for!

---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

Do I Really Love It This Much?

SO, IT'S GONNA WIND UP BEING 8 WEEKS OFF THE BIKE since the noggin took a hit.  If I do the ol' traditional math, that's 8 X 3 (weeks to get back the fitness for every 1 week off the bike)...

... 24 weeks, errrr 6 months?

That's hella long time.

The big question is...

... do I love it that much?

And by it, I do not mean the obvious...

... riding my bike.

I mean being in shape and the...

... feeling of being fast.

If I'm being honest, and I always am with you...

... I've forgotten what that feels like.

Surfgirl said Let's go on a ride today...

... and I jumped at the chance to ride with her support.

How'd it go?

Well, even though I was on my MTB...

... I still easily dropped her.

Nothing new there.

What was new was how hard I had to work to catch her,
huffing and puffing and legs burning...

... at a pace I recall doing for hours, endlessly.

This time it was for about 2 minutes.

Was I surprised?
Disappointed?

Let's just say I laughed out loud when I saw what Training Peaks was showing for my fitness.

37.

Yep, nearly 100 points lower than my all time max fitness just 18 months ago.

Lesson:  fitness disappears, fast.

Lesson:  I'm gonna bring it back, patiently (not my superpower, but a lesson to learn).

Who's in?

---

164.8lbs
9ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

TOP REASONS NOT TO LIFT WEIGHTS

THERE IS A LOT OF BANTER about weight training.  We should do it in the off-season, shy away from in the race season.  Frankly...

... I couldn't disagree more.

Weight training is for those who want:

  • stronger bones
  • to build muscle
  • put out more power
  • improved core strength
  • better grip strength

Who want's that?

Year round?

Oh,
well,
me.

You?

Top 3 exercises we should all be doing?

Takes just a few minutes to do a set.

Very little equipment needed: pull up bar, some dumbbells...

... or skip the minor investment.

  • have weak bones
  • look like a T-Rex
  • less power
  • weaker core
  • pathetic grip

It's your body...

... and I'm just a dude, not a doctor!

 ---

164.8lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

CONFIDENCE, WHO'S RESPONSIBILITY IS IT ANYWAY?

IN GETTING CAUGHT UP WITH THE LATEST BREAKING CYCLNG NEWS, I saw an article title and it's bugged me ever since.  Maybe I'm heartless, from a different generation...

... or maybe this guy is just weak.

The title of the article is, They Lost Faith In Me.

Honestly, I can't believe I even bothered to read it.

But, after a week of it percolating as a top article...

... it got me like a slow moving train wreck.

As expected, featured racer blamed his lack of success on the team losing faith in him.

Bro, it's not the team's job to have faith in you.
They are paying you.
Faith is there.

That's my first reaction.

Bro, them's fighting words.
Now go prove 'em wrong.
Create the failth.

Earn it.

That's my second reaction.

What happened to good ol'...

... if it's to be, it's up to me!?

Or... 

... fake it, 'till ya make it!?

In the end, I couldn't decide if I should feel sorry for a grown man having such a pathetic excuse...

... or be ticked off that such lameness made the front page.

Bottom line,
like it or not...

... it's our responsibility to be confident,
and to infect all those around us with such assuredness.

Life,
racing,
everything...

... is more fun, and, oh, ah, successful!

 ---

162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

WHAT HAPPENS IN SIN CITY...

THERE ARE SINS, and then there are things we personally consider sins.  Either way, 'Vegas promise that what happens in 'Vegas stays in 'Vegas...

... is a big fat lie.

Not a big deal.

We are only letting ourselves,
and those we committed to...

... down.

For example, the second Friday in January is known as Quitter's Day because by then...

... most people have thrown in the towel on their resolutions.

Like I said, 
not a big deal...

... unless you want to
improve,
make changes,
stay true to what matters.

If that's on the line,
we can't afford to sin,
and if we do we've got to...

... repent right away, 
and keep moving forward.

So,
how are those resolutions doing?

I had two:

  • Get to bed around 9,
    start day before 6.
  • Get back to race weight,
    under 163.

The only reason I'm mostly on track is due to putting myself in the hospital on Jan 8th...

  • appetite disappeared
  • needed a lot more sleep

... otherwise, I'd be struggling.

Which is better than quitting.
A lot better.

Struggling,
good.
Repenting,
good.
Never quitting,
Best.

Keep up the good fight.

 ---

162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

THE RACERS CREED

WHETHER WE KNOW IT OR NOT, we stand for a few things.  And, it matters.  Because this is...

... how we roll.

The Racer's Creed

  • Access to bicycles - and anything that makes you stronger and better - should be unlimited.
  • Always yield to the In Real Life Imperative.
  • All racing should be free.
  • Mistrust tradition, government recommendations - promote bro-science.
  • Racers should be judged by their racing, not by bogus criteria like KOMs, USAC Category, age, color or gender.
  • You can be free and forever young on a bicycle.
  • Bicycles change your life for the better.

Agree or Disagree?
Lemmeknow.

 ---

165.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups, presses, squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

IT AIN'T EVERY DAY YOU CAN LOOK FORWARD TO THIS

DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED RIDING?  For most of us, it was a magical time.  Each ride a little further, a little faster.  Each effort...

... a little easier.

No wonder we got hooked.

Still, 
some wonder off.

Is it because the day comes when going further, faster, with less effort is no longer predictable?

Shoot, forget predictable...

... sometimes those days have months between them.

Even years.

I can tell you this, as I impatiently wait for clearance to get back on my bike and start riding again...

... knowing I'll get better every ride keeps me hanging on.

Can you relate?

 ---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups, presses, squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

IT'S SO MIXED UP

ROAD BIKES use road tires.  Most of us find a favorite, and that's what we run day, night, rain, shine.  For MTB, it's basically the same formula.  Find a tire we like, run it regardless.  For gravel...

... ugh.

First off, gravel ain't just gravel.

It's gravel and asphalt and single track and rocky terrain.

So, a gravel tire needs to be fast on asphalt, tacky on gravel turns, nimble on techy stuff and rugged on the rockies.

What's the ol' saying?

There's fast, cheap and quality...

... you can only pick two.

But, we're racing.

We want fast, light and rugged...

... and we want all three.

Not gonna happen.

Me?

I'll take fast and light, banking on my handling skills to get me safely through the rugged stuff.

Is that enough?

Probably not.

If it really matters, 
gotta pre-run the course,
then pick the very best option...

... not easy,
but, that's what make it fun. 

 ---

164.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups & squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I TRIPLE THAT EMOTION

ON THE START LINE there is always a lot of emotion.  Some are scared, some are anxious, some are seething, some are just happy to be there.  And...

... it's all good.

Well, kinda.

Facts are facts.

The more emotion we have the more productive we will be.

There's just one problem.

It might not be positive productivity.

Personally, I prefer to make up some story in my head regarding an innocent competitor...

... that ticks me off.

Take that manufactured angst,
turn it up all the way to 11...

... and let emotion do it's thing.

It is nearly a lock that I will race better,
be more and better calculating...

... and not give a hoot about what others think.

So, yeah...

... I triple that emotion.

 ---

163.9 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No strength work.
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>
HOW SCARY IS YOUR NEXT RACE?

HOW SCARY IS YOUR NEXT RACE?

Jul 03, 2023 TODD BROWN

I LIKE RACES THAT SCARE ME.  Either because of the terrain or distance or lack of experience in a particular discipline...

... but, I'm pretty sure I would never do this one.

Would you?

Before you say yes, let me just point out only 200 applicants get to do it, and this is the first thing you see on their website...

This is not for you.
Nothing personal. But it’s not.
This is for people with fight.
Resilience.
And minds tougher than their bodies.
They’re not interested in being the best.
All they care about is besting themselves.
They’re no nonsense.
No hand-holding. No sugar-coating.
They’re in pursuit of something bigger.
Their team behind them, a smile on their face.
If that sounds good, then maybe we were wrong about you.

... why isn't The Norseman for us?

Well, first off, the idea that it's not kinda hacks me off.  It makes me want to throw off my helmet, chuck my cleats and start swinging.

But, for me, at this time, they are right.

The idea of loading onto a boat off the coast of Norway
to be launched off the back and swim back to shore in frigid water
to then ride 112 miles with 12000' of climbing
then run 26 milies over very rocky terrain...

... it does scare me.

How would you train for a 50 degree water swim?
Which bike, TT or road bike?
Could you even run after?

You know who it doesn't scare?...

... the one and only Jennifer Vollmann.

But, why would it?

She's rad,
she's tough,
she's a mindset sensei.

We talk about big challenges and a lot more in this podcast...

... things like:

  • why group rides help triathletes rip
  • how to improve your mindset
  • how she went from crosstraining to triathlon
  • what level agegroup athlete make it to Worlds
  • why coaches have coaches
  • how to escape corporate life and pursue your passion
  • what's it like to be a woman riding with men

Check it out.

---

165.3
9 hrs
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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BLUE PRINT FOR ASPIRING RACERS

BLUE PRINT FOR ASPIRING RACERS

Jul 02, 2023 TODD BROWN

HERE IS MY BLUE PRINT FOR RADICAL CHANGE.  It's worked for me, for numerous grateful readers, it might work for you but you'll scoff...

... because it's not conventional.

Instead, you'll keep focusing on more miles and gadgets.

For those seeking real change,
here is the daily practice:

  • Review your 'A' race on your calendar
  • Record your rides
  • Weigh yourself first thing
  • Record hours slept
  • Do Pull Ups
  • Do Push Ups
  • Do Squats
  • Read transformational works, in paper form, min 30 minutes
  • Journal, min 30 minutes
  • Stretch and massage
  • Eat whole foods
  • Drink enough
  • No alcohol
  • No bread
  • No soda
  • No sugar

Which is the most important daily practice?
The most impactful?

I'll give you a hint.  

In fact, I'll bet my bottom bracket you think...

... reading and journaling are a waste of time.

---

165.7
8 hrs
PushUps and PullUps
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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THE 3 PHASES OF A RACER'S LIFE

THE 3 PHASES OF A RACER'S LIFE

Jul 01, 2023 TODD BROWN

WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON?!  The young guys are slowing down, the old guys are speeding up.  Does this prove my point in the folly...

... of trinket and KOM chasing?

Here are a few examples:

  • UK Luke skips the hardest part of the climb,
  • Bonifast only rips 1 of my legs off,
  • The old fossil Mark drops me.

Then this dawned on me...

  • BK
  • DK
  • AK

 ... the 3 phases of a racer's life.

Before Kids, the youthful are nothing but merciless marauders on every ride.  They're always improving, recovering in no time...

... living the life of Riley.

During Kids, things settle down and responsibilities expand, crowding out training time.  With the right juggling...

... they sneak out to turn the cranks a bit.

After Kids, with a little luck and determination, these same racers find themselves with extra time and often a little extra coin...

... to put into rejuvenatiing their parentbods.

Here's the thing.

Regardless of where we find ourselves, only we know where we are and where we need to be...

... and we have no idea the commitments, responsibilities and burdens of others.

So, for all you DKrs...

... do your best and forget the rest.

---

165.8
7.5 hrs
PushUps and PullUps
20 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

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TOMORROW SHOULD BE A DANDY

TOMORROW SHOULD BE A DANDY

Jun 30, 2023 TODD BROWN

WE'VE GOT A NUMBER OF CHARACTERS committed to a little adventure.  Some new, some regulars.  The regulars will appreciate the deleted 20 minute climb...

... on the way to the weekly slaying.

The new and uninitiated will wonder why so easy.

Well, I'll tell ya why...

About 30 miles in, the heat will turn up,
and like the frog in the fryer failing to perceive danger,
a good chunk of this merry band of pedaling fools is gonna be cooked.

... that's why.

Then, the question will likely return to...

Why the heck did I join these guys?
How do I get back home?
Will I ever recover?

... but, I like these questions better...

Did I PR any of it?
How do I get faster?
When can we do it again?

... because it ain't about winnin'
it's about gittin' better.

---

167
7 hrs
Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

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TWO OF MY ALL TIME FAVORITE NUTRITION HACK VIDEOS

TWO OF MY ALL TIME FAVORITE NUTRITION HACK VIDEOS

Jun 29, 2023 TODD BROWN

I LOVE YOUTUBE.  I learn so much there.  Why kids still go to school escapes me, when there is so much free and awesome content...

... like these two videos.

It's important to watch them in their entirety and in order.

One is from the 70's and is still timeless in its wisdom and wit.  With a very deep dive into the uselessness of willpower and the overwhelming importance of the right friends.

The other is a very snappy take on how to get your protein to calories number and easily manage the input while still eating dessert from one of my favorite entrepreneurs.

Remember, this one first...

... all the way through.

What's more important...

... willpower or proper environment?

How do you friends stack up?

Then, and only then...

... this one.

Do you have a formula...

... that is this clear and simple?

Here are some of my protein staples:

---

166.2
7.3 hrs
Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

 

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TWO REASON TO DO TWOADAYS

TWO REASON TO DO TWOADAYS

Jun 28, 2023 TODD BROWN

YESTERDAY, FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A WHILE I rode two times.  Once in the morning, once in the evening.  Among the several reason to do so...

... these are the top of my list.

I had a race.

Reason number one then, is any time there is a less than 60 minute effort in the latter part of the day, it's beneficial to get out for an hour or so in the morning...

... it really helps loosen up the body and flush out the legs.

In my case, I had a blistering XC race on tap. 

Normally, I would warm up for an hour or so before the race. But, with the hour of very easy spinning already, my pre-race warm up was cut to about 25 minutes.

And, I felt great.

The other reason to do a twoaday is because, and this could be a myth, but I like it so I'm going with it, placebo or not...

... the body generates HGH each time we work out.

So, while yesterday was an oddity in that I rode twice, I do a lot of twoadays...

  • Crosstraining in the morning, ride in the afternoon
  • Paddlesurf in the morning, ride in the afternoon
  • Ride in the mornining, surf in the evening
  • Run in the morning, ride in the afternoon

... I post most of it on Starva, check it it you like.

It's working for me,
might work for you.

---

165.9
7 hrs
Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

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THAT'S A WRAP

THAT'S A WRAP

Jun 27, 2023 TODD BROWN

THE WEEKLY MTB SERIES IS CONCLUDED.  Each week was a battle, and I really enjoyed the closeness of the racing.  Even as Coxy beat us race after race... 

... he was so gracious it didn't sting.

How are some competitors so easy in their wins, as well as their defeats?

Is it perspective?
Is it easier because they are winning?
Is it because they've been on the receiving end of a rude winner?

Do you know why it's so impressive?

Because the only way to make it to the top is to be a killer,  
a merciless marauder,
a soul crusher...

... and they keep that to themselves.

Win or lose.

---

164.5
7.5 hrs
PushUps and PullUps
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH EVENTS

MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH EVENTS

Jun 26, 2023 TODD BROWN

I LOVE GOING TO EVENTS, especially the ones we sponsor.  To get there early and set up the canopy and chairs and stickers and a few samples... 

... is the second best.

The best is leaving all that behind.

Yep, if you see the van, the canopy it's highly likely you won't see us.

We're out riding.
Racing.

Banging bars with our friends and frenemies, ripping the trails and carving the tarmac...

... that is the best.

That's where the ideas come from,
the friendships deepen,
things get done.

So, why sponsor the event?

Well...

great parking,
great place to hang out,
great to help these dern promoters do their thang,

... oh, and "free" race entries.

See at the racing,
but probs not the canopy.

---

163.8
8.5 hrs
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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REVIEWS

REVIEWS

Jun 25, 2023 TODD BROWN

REVIEWS CAN BE WEIRD, in particular the negative ones.  I used to think I was just overly sensitive for the occasional negative product review I receive...

... then, this happened.

In narrowing my selection for my book club, I thought I better read the reviews.

I'd settled on 10x Is Easier Than 2x.  

Most of the reviews were 5 Stars, confirming my own impressions of the message and lessons being conveyed.  

It was the 1 and 2 Star reviews where things got funky...

Did they even read the book?
Why was it so difficult to accept certain examples?

... then I realized it's the same with the rare negative review we get.

Check this recent review...

Bag is too large.

... which is funny because while I'm reading his review I see he orders the smallest size, the Classic.

I mean bro..

... we have size charts and videos all over the site.

What's the point of all this?

While many negative reviews are legit and can positively contribute to product development... 

... some are lazy, with an axe to grind.

Which begs the question...

... How often do I dismiss a person, product or experience as lacking when I have been lazy or blinded by prejudice?

---

167
8.5 hrs
No strength work
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THIS WAS A THING.

I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THIS WAS A THING.

Jun 24, 2023 TODD BROWN

THIS IS A WEIRD ONE.   We were having a discussion about the various exercises I've incorporated in the last year and the neuromuscular connection to my dramatically reactivated pedal stroke.  Turns out...

... 50% of the cycling world thinks it's a waste.

Now how could that be?

Is it that 50% doesn't no jackshift about pedaling?

You know who I'm taking about right, the stabbers.  The people you show a one-legged drill to and they have a massive deadspot in their pedal stroke.

Apparently, and this is hard for me to believe... 

... this group is 100% convinced there is zero (0) benefit to applying pressure all the way around.

Let me hearken back to the time I paid the renowned and great Joe Friel to fly out and speak to a group of about 300 cyclists and kick off the year.

Half way through his presentation he busts out these very unusual charts which show incremental improvements in efficiency the more a rider was able to deliver power all the way around the pedal stroke.

Each one seemed negligible.
But, taken together the measured improvement was anywhere from 1-8%.

Anyway, if you want a quick check on this...

... get on a flat road, in your easiest gear, and unclip one foot.

If you can't pedal all the way around, smoothly, for a long time...

... you might have a problem.

Which brings me back to today.

Unbelievably to me, I managed to PR a climb I've done a million times.
Yes, I was hanging on for dearlife as we started,
Yes, I was popped about 75% up...

... yes, I stayed seated and relaxed and felt those hammies and ankles FIRING!

Oh, what are the exercises?

Take the Challenge to find out.

---

165.5
7ish hrs
PushUps PullUps Squats Nordics
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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I'M NOT HERE TO CODDLE YOU

I'M NOT HERE TO CODDLE YOU

Jun 23, 2023 TODD BROWN

I WAS RECENTLY LISTENING TO A GROUP OF GUYS AND GALS I love and respect report on their training.  To me it sounded like they are dumbing down what...

... they agreed to be held accountable to.

Here is my message to them (and you).

As you tailor your metrics, be sure you aren’t holding the bar low.  We are here to be stretched, not coddled.

For example, my minimum is 5 pull ups, 15 pushups, 3 squats every day – often 2-3 times more.  On Monday, Wednesday, Friday… I run 1 mile, and do the whole Rip On RaceDay circuit which adds: sled, nodics, hip flexors, box jumps, toe raises, calf raises… and other things I think up.  Recently, I added the running because I feel everybody should be able to easily jog a mile without feeling like they’ve been in a car wreck the next day.

Here’s what I’ve found. 
Doing the minimum daily makes it normal. 
What was once a major stretch becomes the baseline,
it’s no harder than walking up a flight of stairs.

It is so powerful to always have an A race to look forward to. 

Right now, I have two: one in September of this year, and the other in August of 2032.  If you don't have an A race, find one and sink your teeth into it.

Otherwise asking this question makes no sense…

… Will this make me faster?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

allince.png__PID:aaba79a9-37bc-4d18-9bef-e0e97afe5d6a

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

---

164.9
7 hrs
Rip On RaceDay Crossfit
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

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HOW OFTEN DO YOU ASK THIS QUESTION?

HOW OFTEN DO YOU ASK THIS QUESTION?

Jun 22, 2023 TODD BROWN

I CAME ACROSS A QUESTION so powerful and clear it startled me.  Not because I had never asked it...

... but, that I don't ask it enough.

It's a game changer.

The British Rowing Team put it into practice for the 2012 Olympics. Prior to that, they hadn't won a gold medal in nearly 100 years.

They used this filter to judge the worthiness of every action, every day.

Will it make the boat faster?

or, for us...

Will it make the bike faster?

Simple.

There's obviously the bike itself and it's many parts,
then the person piloting the bike,
their food and drink choices,
their home environment,
their social lives,
their recovery,
etc.

The closer we get to an 'A' race the more we need to ask it.  Then again, every day is raceday...

... how we race reflects how we prep.

Well, will it?

---

164.8
7.5 hrs
PushUps PullUps Squats
60 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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ARE YOU DOING THIS ON PURPOSE?

ARE YOU DOING THIS ON PURPOSE?

Jun 21, 2023 TODD BROWN

I SURE THE HECK HOPE YOU AREN'T DOING THIS for the wrong reasons.  There are so many, fortunately there are...

... just as many right reasons.

But, let me tell you the biggest wrong reason.

The number one, No. 1, biggest, hugest, ugliest reason is to win some silly trinket.

Take last night for example.

I had an incredible race, and a massive breakthrough...

... I also, got whacked on the final climb by Tommy.

For the first time all series I felt really good.  In fact, I PR'd the climb which I've done 19 times prior according to Starva...

... and I felt totally in control doing it.

Plus I had the big breakthrough, and I think I've discovered why I have struggled a few times this season. 

I was racking my helmet holder.
What was different?  What has changed?  Why did I feel like I couldn't breathe?  Why was tonight so veryvery good?

The weeks I have felt just awful and battled to finish were the same weeks we were tasked with caring for the granddog.  I think it's extremely likely I've developed some sort allergy to dogs...

... and this dog is a massive shedder.

Kids are gonna be sad,
but, dad very glad.

Here's the problem with trinket chasing...

... it's never enough, and is often a killer of mental health.

If winning had been paramount, it's highly like I would have missed so many good things on the evening...

  • PRd the climb
  • Figured out the breathing issue
  • Made some really good biz connections in the vendor area, teams needing new gear
  • Plus, might have found the perfect fit for a position I've been looking to fill

... there's a secret though.

Rather than look at the trinket that was missed...

... look backwards and see all that was accomplished.

I can see I'm slightly off track here because I'm not listing a few of the reasons to go to  the races, beyond the podium climbing...

... which is always a bonus.

Here are a few of the reason I show up to race...

  • Stay in shape which has allowed me to play with my kids and be most effective at work
  • Develop friendships and bond with dudes - we need this
  • Get outside and enjoy nature
  • Go some place different
  • Learn how to maintain and operate something in the physical world
  • Scare the crud out of myself from time to time
  • Savor the experience of finishing something huge

... don't let trinkets be your purpose, they are a byproduct at best.

Yes, I display and talk about them but that's mainly so y'all don't think I'm completely full of shiz...

... which reminds me of a troll I once had.

He paid me the highest compliment.

I'd gotten so good, so fit, so fast...

... he accused me of cheating.

Now, that is high praise.
Not that I'm into that.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

Wanna hang out with some cool peeps?

allince.png__PID:aaba79a9-37bc-4d18-9bef-e0e97afe5d6a

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

---

165.8
7 hrs
Rip On RaceDay Crossfit
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

View Details
'A' RACE SECRET NO. 7

'A' RACE SECRET NO. 7

Jun 20, 2023 TODD BROWN

IS THE NUMBER 7 REALLY LUCKY?  Is this really Secret No. 7?  These questions and others will be answered...

... will you take action?

I'm not into luck.
Luck is for the unprepared.

7, in scripture, signifies perfection or completion.
I am into that.

But, here's the dirty little secret.

The races we pick determine the racers we become,
the training we do,
skills we master.

If I want to become the most complete racer possible,
I must pick the most challenging race.
Then commit to be ready to rip.

Numbers aren't lucky,
people seem lucky when in reality they are prepared.

By the way, 
this is the seventh secret I've dropped in the last 7 days.

---

166.2
7.5 hrs
Push Ups and Pull Ups only
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

View Details
THE MAGIC MICHELANGELO TRAINING TECHNIQUE

THE MAGIC MICHELANGELO TRAINING TECHNIQUE

Jun 19, 2023 TODD BROWN

I SPENT MY FIRST SUMMER AFTER HIGH SCHOOL, working for a tour company.  As the advance scout, I would take a train to a day early and make sure accommodations were in order...

... then, read up on local attractions.

That is where I learned one of the greatest secrets of life.

In Italy.
Reading The Agony and The Ecstasy,
a biography of the great Michaelangelo.

I was fascinated,
then blown away.

I apply this secret to this day.

While carving the most impressive 17 foot tall statue called The David, which was one of his first projects, he described his method:

The sculpture is already complete within the marble block, before I start my work.  It is already there, I just have to chisel away the superfluous material.

Imagine that.
Really.

When it comes to prepping for races or building a company or caring for friends and family...

... what can we chisel away?

There's the obvious few (many) extra pounds around the waist,
the few upgrades we might make to the bike.

What about time on social media, watching shows or surfing the web?

Unnecessary relationship drama at home or work?

Time spent making food vs a quick trip to Chipotle?

A home gym vs driving to the gym?

Work meetings for no reason, starting late, running over?

A checklist vs prepping from scratch each race?

A clean and pristine drivetrain vs debris and drag?

A proper bike fit for maximum efficiency?

Stocked up on special race nutrition vs running around at the last second?

Early travel plans for savings and most restful accommodations?

Early morning training vs the often uncontrollable late day training times?

Still reading?

Let's take it up another level.

Some might call this repentance, ceasing to do things that hold us back from being nearer to what we want...

... be that God or the finish line.

Think of it as ascension vs giving something up...

... isn't that the point of creating our next masterpiece anyway?

---

166?
7ish hrs
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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IS IT REALLY ALL ABOUT BALANCE?

IS IT REALLY ALL ABOUT BALANCE?

Jun 18, 2023 TODD BROWN

WE USED TO LEARN TO RIDE TWOWHEELERS  by starting with training wheels...

... that turned out to be a bad idea.

The training wheels were essentially a crutch, keeping us from learning about balance.

Now kids as young as 2 learn to balance and coast on a bike with no pedals.

Once they learn to balance we can add complexity like pedals and brakes.

Ditch the training wheels.
Keep it simple.
Balanced.

---

166.3
7.5ish hrs
No strength work
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
THE NUMBER 1 REASON TO CUT THE RIDE SHORT

THE NUMBER 1 REASON TO CUT THE RIDE SHORT

Jun 17, 2023 TODD BROWN

YEARS AGO, nearly all my rides ended early.  Even on the weekends, I'd head out early and be back by 830 or 9...

... because I had another ride to do.

These were the best rides,
with my best riders.

We lived right next to this beautiful canyon, with a pristine singletrack.
followed by a mile or so fire road climb,
and a ripping, bermy, flowy ride
to the bottom.

The best 5 mile loop for these little troopers, ever.

It started with a bolt on half-bike thingy and our oldest.

Then we got ahold of some tiny cranks and a bottom bracket that allowed him to ride and pedal on the back of the tandem, with our second son bolted onto the back of that on the half-bike thingy.

I loved it.
They loved it.

It was a heckuva workout for me,
with them doing what the could when I really need Full Power!

26 years ago today, the sassy little sister joined the party...

... which is why I needed to cut the ride short this morning.

We're all gettin' together from her bday and Father's Day, at the beach.  

The bike riding didn't really take hold...

... but, getting outside and doing fun things sure did.

---

165.3
7.3ish hrs
PushUps PullUps Squats
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
BUT, SERIOUSLY...

BUT, SERIOUSLY...

Jun 16, 2023 TODD BROWN

IT'S JUST A SPORT, a passion, a hobby.  Consequently, a lot of times we don't take ourselves seriously...

... when we could.

Look back a few years, to that first bike ride.

Slow.
Dorky.
Not good.

Look at you now.
Much better.
Faster.

Or maybe back to slow?

Here's the dill.

When we look back and see where we've come from vs where we are now...

... it's obvious we've improved.

We did something.

Take stock of that, then ask...

... who can help me take the next leap forward?

I did just that today.

Thinking about my commitment for Marathon Nats, I realized I'm going to need to take my fitness up a notch.

Quickly.

So, I hired a coach,
someone who knows more than me,
who can teach me something I don't know...

... quicker than I'd learn it on my own.

Seriously,
time is short.

Who is the missing piece of your puzzle?

---

165.1
7.2ish hrs
Full RaceDay Ready Circuit
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
WHAT A GREAT DAY!

WHAT A GREAT DAY!

Jun 15, 2023 TODD BROWN

A DAY IN MY LIFE.

Get up to factory to review new prototype jerseys, bibs, tech t's and base layers with our new pattern maker.

We're close.
But, I'm picky.
And, she's pickier.

It's take much, much longer than anticipated to develop these new patterns...

... and I think we are a week or two from our final revision.

From there, I hustled home to do a podcast with Tom Danielson.

What a story.

Scrawny kid,
rips on a mountain bike,
switches to road as a climbing specialist,
races at the highest levels all the way to the Tour de France...

... falls from grace.

Regroups.
Rebuilds.

... fall again and crashes and burns.

Regroups.
Builds something new.
From nothing.
Amazing.

I had no idea the depth, breadth and details we'd cover.

Popped on my kit, 
barely caught up to the fellas,
got shot out the back to do some purposeful Zone 2.

Quick shower.

Jump on our Alliance call, where this gold is dropped by Kyle.

Marty, you mentioned you still get anxious and nervous before a race even after doing 1000s of races.

Yeah.

I'm an anesthesiologist and early on I mentioned to my mentor that putting kids under made me really nervous...

... he told me, Good, if that ever stops it's time to quit.

I tell ya, it was a truly great day.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

---

164.4
7ish hrs
PushUps PullUps Squats Nordics
20 minutes recovery
6- minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

View Details
MY WOMAN MEETS MY OTHER WOMEN

MY WOMAN MEETS MY OTHER WOMEN

Jun 14, 2023 TODD BROWN

WE'VE BEEN THREATENING TO DO THIS, get our other women together and see how things go.  You know jump on...

... the trending societal debauchery.

Tonight was the night where Surfergirl found out my other woman...

... is a man with a bike.

Kidding aside.

I put out a text the DRTY WDNSDY crew, 
Susie is making tacos after the ride.

Here's the thing.

We spend all this time riding together, 
talking about work, kids, life,
the good, the trials,
dude bonding.

We need it.

Too few of our contemporaries have any kind of male only interaction.  Dude loneliness is a thing, and for some can be a killer.  In that sense, we are extremely fortunate. 

While we know each other so well, 
our partners only know of us...

And, I reckon more than a few have wondered...

... Who the heck is he spending so much time with?!

So, to finally get together and put faces with stories it can be an amazing experience for everybody because truth be told most of us are...

... riding with incredible human beings.

---

164.8
7 hrs
Full RaceDay Ready Circuit
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
ZONING OUT

ZONING OUT

Jun 13, 2023 TODD BROWN

ZONE 2 TRAINING HAS BECOME ESSENTIAL TO ME.  There is nothing better to build a huge cardio engine...

... but that is only the half of it.

Nearly all of my zone 2 training is alone.

Like most, my schedule can get hectic, and it is a challenge to meet others for a session more than once or twice a week...

... so, it's just me.

Not only am I riding in solitude, but the majority of the rides are off-road, in nature.  Or, off the highway on a bike path.

Here is where I tap into the superpower of zone 2...

... and maybe you do the same.

I noticed it long ago, when a certain infamous champion dominated cycling's collective consciousness.  As I rode along, I imagined I was him.  My posture changed, my cadence changed, my thoughts were elevated to those of a champion.

Years later, I realize zone 2 can be a meditative workout. 

Far from the distractions of life, I am with my thoughts.  Sometimes, for sure, I am envisioning a great outcome on the bike.  Reviewing what I'll do in preparation, and how I will perform at a given time...

..., but, that's not all.

I take this time to imagine all areas of life having the outcomes I desire.  My marriage, our kids and grandkids.  Our long-term physical and spiritual health. The people I serve.  And, most definitely, where PEDALindustries is headed.

That is how I do zone 2 training...

... how about you? 

---

165.4
7.3 hrs
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

View Details
STILL CRAZY AFTER ALL THESE GEARS

STILL CRAZY AFTER ALL THESE GEARS

Jun 12, 2023 TODD BROWN

IT'S PROBABLY NOT NEW TO YOU, but I was stunned to see this.  Right before my very eyes, binge watching...

... the Tour de France.

Have you seen it?
On Netflix?

We sat down for the first episode, with steak and veggies.

The initial scenes are incredible.

And suddenly I'm thinking, maybe just maybe, my friends and family will finally get it...

... why I'm so crazy for this sport.

The insane technology,
incredible athletes,
massive danger,
fans so close,
this is it.

Maybe.
Maybe they'll be drawn in.

Because, how cool would it be to get a whole bunch more friends and family out riding, and dreaming of...

... going that fast,
being that good,
on two wheels.

---

164.8
7.5 hrs 
Circuit training
20 minutes recovery  
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
SO TAKE MY STRONG ADVICE

SO TAKE MY STRONG ADVICE

Jun 11, 2023 TODD BROWN

YA KNOW, it's a shame I have to be reminded of this every year or so.  But, here it is very late spring, and the signs couldn't be more clear...

... there's evil creeping in the woods.

It's unseen,
unless you slow down.

But, who has time for that?

While we were out ripping it up on DRTY WDNSDY the evil was doing it's thing...

... wrapping around my arms and legs.

Painless.
Without a trace.
Until last night when I awoke in misery.

My right arm got it the worst.
Everything from sleeve to glove is inflamed, in a weird rhino-skin way.

So, here are my top 2 remedies.

  • If you suspect in the slightest, use Tecnu immediately after returning from a ride.
  • If you've blown it, like I have, Ivarest is great at knocking back the urge...

... to rip the skin off your body.

Roadies, you got nothing to worry about.
Gravelers, maybe a teeny chance if you poach singletrack.
Mountainbikes below 5000' in moist, shady areas like the bottom of our trail network...

... beware, and take care.

It ain't called Poison Ivy for nothing.

---

166.2
8.5 hrs 
No strength work
20 minutes recovery  
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
HOW HARD WAS THIS WORK OUT?

HOW HARD WAS THIS WORK OUT?

Jun 10, 2023 TODD BROWN

SINGING ANDY came up for some MTB fun this morning.  An outstanding road racer and accomplished runner, he's found a new focus...

... offroad triathlon, Xterra.

Today's mission:  have some fun.

The heavy mist provided amazing traction, zero dust...

... and 3D printed our legs and bikes with mud.

Since he's at the end of a big training block, and I'm starting to lay base for my September showdown neither of us was looking to push too hard...

... but, what do you make of that pic of my BPM up there?

We had done a number of steep pitches...

... however, nothing to warrant 225 BPM.

Yes, I know, the ongoing saga of my Wahoo device.

I looked at Andy's bike.

No bike computer?

Nah, I don't measure anything any more.

Nothing?

Only on my road bike, when I do intervals, I track power. 

No Strava?

Not for 4 years.

No heart rate monitor?

I'm pretty sure it's still beating.

Hmmm...

Yeah, I just like to ride on feel and be in the moment.

I can respect that.
Especially given the worthless data I was receiving.  
The Apple watch came through with HR data, but it always records about 10% less vertical than the Wahoo.

Which is correct?
Does it matter?

Or, would we all be better off riding on feel and in the moment like Singing Andy?

---

Afterwards, I caught myself in the mirror on the way to the shower.  It wasn't good.

I thought my gloves were tucked stowed in my jersey, I often throw them up there post ride...

... that little pooch in front of my jersey wasn't my gloves!

Time to face reality...

... I've let something slid on the meal plan and it's gathering in plain sight.

As much as I assure myself my current weight trend is from all weights, I now 100% sure it's not.

---

166.4
7.5 hrs 
PushUps and Pull Ups
10 minutes recovery  
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
A TOUR DE FRANCE PREDICTION

A TOUR DE FRANCE PREDICTION

Jun 09, 2023 TODD BROWN

LAST YEAR ABOUT THIS TIME, I predicted the The Vampire (aka Jonas Vingegaard) would win the Tour.  My logic was simple...

... he was making his team captain Roglic look old and slow.

You can read about it here.

So, what about this year?

First off, I'm excited as heck to see my favorite mountain biker in action...

... Pidcock is so fun to watch.

There's a lot of hype around his descending skills, deservedly so.  He's so hard to classify as a racer, extremely aggressive...

... and supremely confident.

Wout, Mathieu, Remco all race like that.
As if they've just escaped from jail and they ain't going back.

Then there's Tadej.

He's currently recovering from a broken wrist.
However, that won't be driving him.
He's coming for redemption.
He was embarrassed.

If you think this year's exploits in the Classics were to focus on something else besides the Tour, I'd guess you're wrong.  In my eyes, those peloton stomping wins were much more...

... a show of force, shock and awe. 

Is the vampire rattled?
Judging by his performance so far at the Dauphine, I'd say nope.

Should he be?
Definitely.  
No Roglic to misdirect the competition.
Kuss just rode the Giro and could be weaker than last year.

It's early, it's risky...

... it's gonna be Tadej. 

There.
I said it.

Who are you picking?

---

164.2
7ish hrs 
No strength workout
20 minutes recovery  
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
MY SECRET ALLIANCE

MY SECRET ALLIANCE

Jun 08, 2023 TODD BROWN

I HAVE THIS CORE GROUP OF ATHLETES I meet with once a week on Zoom.  In the beginning, it was simply to hold each other accountable.  Six months in...

... it's become a trusted group of advisors and motivators.

If you're like me, very few people can relate to what I want to accomplish.

Why do you want to do that?

Ugh... I hate that question.  

Is it to make me feel guilty? 
Is it because I'm making them look bad?
Or, maybe it's just jealousy that I have something I'm passionate about.

Personally, I just want to go for it.
Simple as that.
I want to.

Which is what makes my alliance so invaluable.
They all get it because they are on a similar quest.

We ask why, so that we know how to support each other.
We ask how, and we get gold from the group.
We ask when, to cheer each other on.

Each week, we check in and update each other on our progress on and off the bike, our challenges, our races, our PRs, etc...

... and I love it.

I hope you have something like that in your life.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

If not, check this out.

 https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-alliance

---

164 
8ish hrs 
Push Ups, Pull Ups, Squats
20 minutes recovery  
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

View Details
THE INFINITE RACE

THE INFINITE RACE

Jun 07, 2023 TODD BROWN

LAST NIGHT WAS A CLOSE ONE.  Pre-riding part of the course, my chain was skipping a bit.  Can't have that racing...

... luckily, my local bike shop was there.

So, I cut my pre-ride short figuring the course was unchanged from the previous week.

Big mistake. 

(Note:  this is why I highly, highly recommend supporting the local shop)

The other mistake, as The Coathanger pointed out, was not dialing in my bike before showing up.

Hey, I saw your bike hanging up and being wrenched on.

Yeah, chain is skipping.

Aren't you supposed to be raceday ready?

Yes, I am.

Don't you make a checklist for having the bike ready on raceday?

Yes, I do.

Well?

Well... shift happens.

Anyway, we line up to race and within about 3 minutes we've nearly caught the wave that stared 30 seconds ahead of us and as 3 of my competitors gap me with ease...

... I'm thinking Why the heck do I sign up for this torture?!!

My breathing is so loud and laborious, even I'm concerned.

Fortunately, along with my derailer not working well my Wahoo HRM wasn't working either.

Let the records show that both of these devices were working fine the day before.

If I'd been about to see the HR recorded by my back up Apple Watch, I probably would have quit.

It was really hard.

Towards the top, I made up a bit of ground and while the leaders were being held up a bit by slower traffic on the single track return to the bottom, I was able to connect once we hit the pavement.

Remember how I skipped riding all of the course?

Yeah, well, if I had, I would have known to be first into the final single track, which we haven't ridden all year.  

It's not that hard.

But, it does have some very steep and tight turns that must be attacked with power...

... the kind of turns that can get in your head.

Sure enough, the rider in front of me misses the last 180 and we all have to dismount.

Ugh.

Winding around to hit the big hill for the second and final time, I'm feeling a little better.

Slowly, ever so slowly, I pulled away from the fellas and established a big enough gap by the bottom to comfortably ride away.

The point is this.

Sometimes, I (we?) just want to quit.

It hurts.

I'm tired of suffering.

Inevitably, at least for me, I almost always start to feel good.

As the great Mike Tyson famously said...

... Everybody's got a plan until the get punched in the face (gapped off the back.)

The thing is though, while the pain is real, it's not infinite...

pushing through,
giving it our all,
persevering,

... is what we do, and who we are.

It doesn't always work out, that we catch back on or feel better.  Sometimes we just get shelled and do the ride of shame back to the start line.

You know what would be a real shame?

To never go back,
to stop clawing and battling,
to never chase another outrageous PR.

The real race is the infinite one, against ourselves.

---

164.7
6.8 hrs 
RaceDay Ready Circuit Training and Run
20 minutes recovery  
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

 

View Details
DRAFT OR BOTTLE?

DRAFT OR BOTTLE?

Jun 06, 2023 TODD BROWN

HAD A RACER PING ME and let me know he'd beat anybody, anytime, anywhere.  He'd put up $500, cash. He just had one requirement...

... no drafting.

Then asked me my thoughts,
poor soul.

They are many.

  • He would lose to any pro male, and most pro women.
  • Drafting requires a level of skill and cunning, I personally enjoy.
  • Drafting is important in decreasing order:
  • BMX
  • Road
  • Gravel
  • Mountain
  • Time trialing.
  • Don't wish things were different, with you were better.

So rather than bottle up that angst,
go for something where drafting matters less, or not at all.

MTB
or, TT

Prove it.

Now, I really like this cat.  He has sent me a number of emails over the years...

... I hope he is encouraged to go for it.

Winning a Cat 1 race in either of those would be a truly massive feat.

I hope he does it.
I hope he rips it up,
climbs to the top step,
and claims the all elusive Gold medal. 

That would be rad...

... then, we can find a pro who he can give $500 to.

If you're still reading brother,
I send this in love and as a challenge.

Let me know.

Meanwhile, I'll be finishing at to top of my age group tonight...

... 15+% slower than the pros.

---

165.2
7.5 hrs 
PushUps and Pull Ups
10 minutes recovery  
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
VISION PROBLEMS?

VISION PROBLEMS?

Jun 05, 2023 TODD BROWN

ALLRIGHTY KIDS, you may be having the same challenge I am.  Oddly, and this is happening on and off the bike, I have found myself challenged...

... to look far ahead.

That's a problem if you're trying to go fast.

For some inexplicable reason, I am having to really force myself to keep my eyes up...

... searching for the next turn or obstacle.

Instead, I find myself rather myopic (kids, that means only seeing what's right in front of me.)

The result is instead of being in a state of flow, I often find myself being reactive and overly cautious.

Do I need glasses?

Mmmmmaybe.  

But, I don't think so.

In fact, after a deep dive into 10X Is Easier Than 2X, I'm convinced my vision has just gotten lazy on the bike.

Lazy?

Maybe not the right word.

Bad habits?

It could be I've been doing more road riding and it is so easy to just focus on staying glued to the wheel I'm drafting off.

In the 10X Book, Dan and Ben propose that by focusing on 10X goals our mind will develop the pathways to get us there.

Rather than looking far down the trail and having the faith my body will fill in the gaps...

... which is what it does when I'm in a state of flow,
when the stakes are sky high...

... I'm looking only a few feet ahead.

This puts me in a much more reactive state when ripping, far from flow.  Much more of...

... a state of Oh, shift!

Not good.
Slow.

Not joyful.
Danger.

Where I should be loose and attacking,
I'm tense,
rigid.

The only cure I can think of is to get out on the trails more,
and go a lot faster than I've been going lately...

... because going 10 times faster,
used to feel a whole lot easier.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer

One of the secrets to going faster is...

... expecting good things to happen.

I talk about this in Chapter 4.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer

---

165.8
8 hrs 
RaceDay Ready Strength Work
20 minutes recovery  
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

View Details
IT'S NOT AN 'A' RACE IF...

IT'S NOT AN 'A' RACE IF...

Jun 04, 2023 TODD BROWN

AS RACERS AND ATHLETES, the 'A' race is our north star.  Everything we are doing is aligned to achieve a specific result.  To be truly powerful...

... 'A' races are something we have never done.

Doing LoToJa for the 'nth time is not an A race...

going for a PR is,
arriving at a never before race-weight is,
completing it when life derailed nearly all training plans is,
shooting for the podium after being pack fodder for years and years is...

... if it isn't scary, it's not an A race.

It's just a race that will B nice to do and allow us to C our friends

Which is fine, but hardly a north star by which all decisions are going to be weighed against...

... is this going to help or hinder the A race?

In that light, most us fail.

Me, especially.

We plan poorly,
make up excuses, 
create unrealistic fears,
anything to keep us from facing the fact...

... we are scared shiftless.

Recently, I was talking myself out of going to USA Cycling's MTB Marathon Nationals...

  • It's so far away.
  • I hate flying (I really do)
  • Work is so busy that time of year
  • It's gonna cost a ton
  • ... on an on.

... What a freakin' baby (I'd say pussy but I know that offends a lot of people, but that's what I was thinking.  What a freakin' pussy to come up with all these excuses when it's been on my bucket list for years to go and to win.)

You know the difference between an A race and a B and a C?

Courage.

Because we don't know how we're gonna do it.
We've never done it.
It's impossible.

There is a secret, however.

It starts with Registration.

Just because we can't fathom the outcome we want to achieve,
doesn't mean it's unachievable.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer

If you've read my book, which apparently I need to read again for a kick in the bibs... 

... then you know Registration is where the magic begins.

And, until that happens we are only fooling ourselves.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer

---

165.8
8.2 hrs 
Pull Ups, Pushups, Squats
20 minutes recovery  
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Podcast:

 

 

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

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    I THINK I'VE BLOWN IT

    I THINK I'VE BLOWN IT

    Jun 03, 2023 TODD BROWN

    ON THE VERY FIRST BABY CLIMB, I suspected I was in trouble. 2 hours later, when riders from all parts met up, I received confirmation... 

    Bro, you're overtrained.

    I was shot right out the back 2/3s up a power climb...

    ... the lonely ride of shame ensued.

    Dangit!

    I knew it'd be risky, this little plan o' mine to put in a big training block during our racing break in order to up my fitness a bit.

    5 out of 8 days, hitting it hard...

    Saturday
    Sunday off
    Monday
    Tuesday
    Wednesday
    Thursday exhausted, skipped the ride
    Friday, very easy
    Saturday

    ... plus weights, Mon-Wed and Fri.

    Now, what to do in the next 72 hours?

    • Get plenty of sleep - I've struggled a bit lately by adding an early morning commitment, but I think my rhythm is coming around.
    • Hypvolt and stretch daily.
    • Recovery walk tomorrow.
    • Monk-like on the diet.
    • Easy spin Monday...

    ... with any luck, I'll feel better.

    We have 4 races left.

    My plan, going forward, is back to back hard days with race Tuesday, hard MTB Wednesday...

    ... then lots of zone 2.

    Ideally, the last 3 races I'll be feeling really good.

    We'll see.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    At least I was looking good with these superlight gloves to match my kit above...

    ... we have lots of colors and did you know...

    ... it's Buy A Pair, Get A Pair for FREE?

    Nothing like matching gloves to make the kit look slick.

    Note:  be sure and order 2 pair, the discount is automatic when you check out.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    ---

    163.9
    6.8 hrs (no bueno)
    Pull Ups, Pushups, Squats
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    THE POWER OF A GOOD TAIL WIND.

    THE POWER OF A GOOD TAIL WIND.

    Jun 02, 2023 TODD BROWN

    WAS I REALLY GOING 24 MPH on my gravel bike, with underinflated tires and a heart rate of 114 bpm?  It sure felt good, plus the sun had finally broken through after a month of May Gray...

    ... and, it dawned on me.

    Everything is easier with a tail wind.

    Except for one thing.

    And, that can be a problem.

    The tail wind speeds everyone up.  Suddenly wind is not an issue, and the most powerful riders, if allowed to breakaway, can be nearly impossible to catch.

    But, what if we had our won personal tailwind?
    Wouldn't that be grand?

    Some of us do.
    And you can, too.

    For a coupla bucks you can have a home gym,
    and in 20-30 minutes knock out enough work to make a lot more watts.

    Normally, I'd point you to the RaceDay Ready Challenge right here, where I unveil all the strategies I use...

    ... to Rip On RaceDay.

    But, I'm not gunna.
    I can't.

    Hundreds and hundreds have started the challenge, but failed to make it.

    That's on me.
    And, it makes me sad.

    I really do want you to have your best days ever...

    ... so, I'm revamping the program.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    So, allow me to  point out that these supersexy, superlight race gloves are amazing...

    ... light and airy enough to wear ih the hottest temperatures.

    Plus... there's a deal going on...

    ... it's Buy A Pair, Get A Pair for FREE?

     

    You know how cool these are gonna be on the 4th!

    Note:  be sure and order 2 pair, the discount is automatic when you check out.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    ---

    163.6
    7.5 hrs 
    Pull Ups, Pushups, Squats
    20 minutes recovery  
    120 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

     

     

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    ARE YOU A PROTEIN HACKER?

    ARE YOU A PROTEIN HACKER?

    Jun 01, 2023 TODD BROWN

    IT CAN BE A CHALLENGE TO EAT ENOUGH PROTEIN, which our bodies need to repair and maintain muscles.  With all our efforts to be fueled for the ride, it's easy to skip or skimp on...

    ... whatever your thoughts on how much protein you need.

    The studies can be startling.

    A study showed the young really don't need any protein because their bodies manufacture their own supply, while aging athletes need more because their bodies can't utilize it as efficiently.

    What are we supposed to do?

    Me, I have a goal to eat a gram of protein for every pound I weigh.

    To stay on track and make it easy I try and knock most or all of my protein consumption prior to dinner...

    ... then, I can eat whatever the family, friends or I want to eat.

    There are bonuses to this program:

    • Your full all the time
    • Not consuming a bunch of unneeded calories

    I created a journal my protein consumption, the rest is a focus on eating "clean". 

    For example, here's today's entry...

    6/1

    30 Kodiak waffles
    7 Bacon
    7 Cheese
    22 Sardines
    12 Rx Bar
    25 Kachava Shake
    50 Poke (dinner)
    36 Greek yogurt (dessert)

    ... a little over gram/pound of my body weight.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    Good thing the Superlight Race Gloves...

    ... provide such a powerful connection to my bars.

    Did you know...

    ... it's Buy A Pair, Get A Pair for FREE?

    I wear 'em all year long, they're that good.

    Anyway, if you're in to Patriotic stuff like me, get a pair for you and a friend.

    Note:  be sure and order 2 pair, the discount is automatic when you check out.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    ---

    165.6
    7.8 hrs 
    0 cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    90 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    DON'T LOOK BACK, BUT DO LOOK DOWN.

    DON'T LOOK BACK, BUT DO LOOK DOWN.

    May 31, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THE DRTY WDNSDY RIDE is one of my favorites.  We meet at the corner, chase each other up the climbs, search out new and challenging downhills...

    ... what could be better?

    The Assassin had gone to the front, and as the trail got a lot steeper, the pace stayed the same... 

    ... I was afraid to look back.

    If I looked back and saw The Gentlemen gapped off,
    I'd probably drop anchor myself.

    If I looked back and he was on my wheel,
    I'd press on and blow up before the top.

    Now, why do we do these rides?

    Adventure, for sure.
    Chance at coming home bloodied, that too.

    But, there's something else.
    Something bigger.

    We're all training for A races in a couple of months.  What we are doing now, is laying down the foundation:

    • Lots of saddle time
    • Riding trails much harder than we'll race

    The Great Alex Hormozi shared a great and applicable story we can apply to base training.:

    Two men set out to build a building.

    One lays the foundation for a 10-story building and finishes the entire building in nine months.

    The other lays the foundation for a 100-story building and it takes him the entire nine months just to build the first few floors.

    The first “being ahead” mocks the second for taking so long. He decides he wants to build his building into a 100-story building to prove how good of a builder he is. So he tries to add stories on top. He gets to 15-16 stories and then the foundation begins to crack. He starts reinforcing things. But no matter what, he feels he can’t put anymore on top.

    Over time, the second guy keeps building and passes the first man. Two years later the second man completes his 100-story building despite barely having his foundation finished by the time the first man finishes his entire building.

    The first man, goes to a mentor to ask his advice on growing his building taller. The mentor tells him “you need to tear down this building or start another one new”

    He says “and waste all the time I spent building this one? Can’t I just add it on top if I just knew how?”

    The mentor replies “there’s a lesson here: The fastest way to build a 10-story building isn’t the fastest way to a 100-story building. Your desire to grow fast ruined your ability to grow big.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    All of us had on the Superlight Race Gloves...

    ... with the perforated palms, real leather and device friendly thread.

    Did you know...

    ... it's Buy A Pair, Get A Pair for FREE?

    I wear 'em all year long, they're that good.

    Anyway, if you're in to Patriotic stuff like me, get a pair for you and a friend.

    Note:  be sure and order 2 pair, the discount is automatic when you check out.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    ---

    166.1
    7 hrs (not enough, trying to shift my sleep pattern)
    1 cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    80 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

     

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    DO YOU MAKE IT LOOK EASY?

    DO YOU MAKE IT LOOK EASY?

    May 30, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THERE I WAS, MOVING QUICKLY UP A STEEP CLIMB through a local neighborhood.  The bottom far below and the top nowhere in sight, when a lovely lady said...

    ... Wow, you make that look easy.

    I smiled back and wished her well.
    She wasn't flirting with me, I don't think.

    But, her assessment wasn't quite accurate.

    What she couldn't appreciate was the miles I've logged,
    the discipline I've learned to exercise,
    the wonderful feelings in my body,
    the challenges I've faced,
    the skills I've developed.

    I wasn't making it look easy...

    ... I was making it look enjoyable, pleasurable.

    And that is all the difference,
    why I'm endlessly fascinated with this sport.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    I was wearing these superlight gloves...

    ... with the perforated palms, real leather and device friendly thread.

    Did you know...

    ... it's Buy A Pair, Get A Pair for FREE?

    I wear 'em all year long, they're that good.

    Anyway, if you're in to Patriotic stuff like me, get a pair for you and a friend.

    Note:  be sure and order 2 pair, the discount is automatic when you check out.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    ---

    166.6 
    7.7 hrs
    1 cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    HOW TO GET PRs WITH RUBBER LEGS

    HOW TO GET PRs WITH RUBBER LEGS

    May 29, 2023 TODD BROWN

    WHAT COULD GO WRONG WHEN YOUR PAL, who is already faster, invites you for an easy and lazy holiday spin?  Nothing, unless he's noticeably lighter and says...

    ... We're just gonna cruise up a few hills.

    To start, we did something I reallyreallyreally didn't want to do first

    Nyes Place.
    20% grade.
    So steep when the homes were constructed cement trucks were mandated to carry half loads.

    I PR'd Nyes, and that was just the beginning of the magic.

    Let me tell you how weird this was. 

    I'd already done the full Cowboy Strong Circuit, plus my legs were still feeling fatigued from Saturday's 80 mile adventure.

    Strangely, probably because everybody dropped me on Neyes, I rode that sunnuva climb faster than ever before. I'd only been up it a few times, but still.

    Then, I PR'd 2 of the next 3 steep climbs, and got a 3rd fastest on the 2nd of the 4 climbs.

    It was just so strange because the remaining 3 climbs seemed so much easier than they ever had before.

    Yes, I was huffing and puffing.
    Yes, it was a high threshold, nearly anaerobic effort.
    Yes, we were regrouping and actually cruising from climb to climb.

    But, how could that be?
    All these PRs when I'm a lot older?

    Maybe the cross training got my muscles firing?  
    I remember the hearing of the Lakers, in the glory days, hitting the weights before the game.

    Maybe it was the nice 45 minute warm up ride over to the climbs?
    I do appreciate a good warm up more and more.

    Maybe it was the perfect, 60ish degrees and misting.

    Maybe it was just physics?
    I hadn't done any of these climbs since before I got back into racing and dropped at least 10 pounds.

    Maybe it was fitness?
    I'm just a lot more committed and fit than I was when Strava first came out.

    Maybe it was the bike?
    My current road bike is super legit, much more than the bikes I rode for fitness and getting road miles in.

    Maybe it was chasing my very fast friends?
    There really isn't anything like seeing someone else ahead and tapping into the mental magnet to get pulled along.

    It coulda been any one of those, all of those, or some combination.  

    But, I reallyreallyreally think riding the beast that is Nyes first...

    ... made everything else seem a whole easier.

    Maybe there is something to the Rubber Arm Experiment: 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdxlT68ygt8

    ---

    166.6
    7.5 hrs
    1 cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    WHAT TO DO WHEN IT REALLY, REALLY HURTS

    WHAT TO DO WHEN IT REALLY, REALLY HURTS

    May 28, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THE BIKES WENT FLYING EVERYWHERE.  It was a spectacular finish line crash, but I suspect that was nothing compared to the pain felt yesterday...

    ... which must have been overwhelming.

    So, what do we do when we're really banged up?

    If you watched the last, incredible stage of the Giro today you might have missed it.

    • Not the crash
    • Not G Thomas' massive pull
    • Not Cav's insanely dominant sprint

    A couple of kilometers out, I saw something none of the pundits caught.

    Did you?

    Geraint Thomas began the healing process from what had to be a supremely bitter and painful loss...

    ... by helping a friend in need.

    Go back and watch it.

    He' not paid to pull Cav's lead out man, LL Sanchez, but he pulls along side and says Get on my wheel.

    Then, Thomas strings out the race at just the right moment, keeping the pace extremely high and making all the other sprinters work very hard to get into position while Cav is cruising in the perfect position.

    With 1k to go, the other sprint teams' momentum carries them around Cav and he's perfectly slotted in 10 guys back on the wheel of the guy rocking the Sprinter's jersey.

    It couldn't be better,
    it wouldn't have been better if Thomas hadn't done a very good deed.

    ---

    165.6
    7ish hrs
    0 cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    SMALL RING, SMALL DETOUR, BIG FUN

    SMALL RING, SMALL DETOUR, BIG FUN

    May 27, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THERE'S A LOCAL RIDE I'VE DONE A THOUSAND TIMES, which is why I don't do it that much of late.  We hit it today because my pal TimmyV texted up...

    ... I'm outta shape and need a hard ride.

    Perfect, CV is a ride he knows well and knows how to get home.

    A mile from home, I realized my front derailer was dead.  Same as yesterday, only this time I'd charged the battery...

    ... good thing there's lots of vert, little flat riding.

    We picked up Charlie and met about 30 fire breathers, soon we'd be feelin' that burnin' he'd been yearnin' for.

    The first little pitch I stretched my legs, looked back and saw a gap.

    Hmmm.  

    I pressed on, made a light they missed.

    I coulda waited, but I was really wanting to ride hard and the group didn't seem that interested.

    After 8ish minutes, I eased up and waited and waited and waited...

    ... they were missing all the lights before the canyon.

    We all dropped down the corkscrew, leanin' hard and singin' brake pads, pouring out onto the downhill run before blasting up the other side of the canyon.

    I was about 7 guys back.
    The pace was heating up, finally.

    With zero warning, we hit a road closure.  Stopped.  Trees down.  Turned around.

    This is where it got fun.

    Paralleling the road is a paved stretch through a campground, which turns to dirt for the final 1/2 mile or so.

    Surprisingly, only a few of us knew the route.
    A few roadies, balked and bailed out.
    The rest loved the detour.

    Back on the climb up the canyon, things got going again.  It felt so good to be sweating, hearing my heavybreathing, watching the leaders ride away over the top...

    ... reeling them back in by the 120 degree turn at the bottom,
    and hanging on.

    Ryan, Chase and I opted for the extra credit, 20% pitch over the very top before regrouping with the rest.

    Tim's text came through,
    I'm done.
    Fried.

    I'm glad he got me out, 
    I'm glad I kept going with only the small chain ring.

    It was good to see the friends,
    good to get pushed hard,
    good to test the legs.

    When I got home, I saw the most amazing thing...

    ... the mark of a winner.

    Primoz Rogic dropped his chain, 
    remained calm and put it back on.

    Didn't freak out.
    Didn't get emotional.
    Didn't give up and quit.

    That's focus.

    ---

    166
    8ish hrs
    Push Ups Pull Ups and Squats
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    WANTING A LOT MORE RESULTS IN 2023

    WANTING A LOT MORE RESULTS IN 2023

    May 26, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THERE IS A BIG PRICE TO BE PAID when we have a true A race.  It's not the entry fee, the bike upgrades, travel, lodging, food, time off work, time away from family...

    ... it's a lot more than that.

    This is what makes it so hard, and why so many of us fail to accomplish that big A race goal.

    The price we must pay is...

    ... saying NO! to every other race and event and thing we also want to do.

    Sure, we'll do other races.  Go for PRs.  Race our friends to the City Limit signs all year long.

    As the great Derek Sivers says in Anything You Want...

    ... If it ain't Hellyeah! then it's No.

    Trust me, I'm battling like hell with this right now.  

    I had my A week back in March,
    that fitness carried through to an exceptional April,
    and now we are halfway through a weekly MTB series and it's been a real battle.

    I'm burned,
    My body is burned,
    My MTB is even burned.

    But, that competitive bug has bitten and I'm sick with a desire to see if I can manufacture some fitness for the last 4 races...

    ... then, I'll take a break before building for the next A race.

    This could be really dumb and back fire.

    If you love racing, which I'm guessing you do since you are reading this post...

    ... it's one thing to know you need a break, another to take it.

    It actually takes courage,

    and faith.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-2023

    Thanks to Neal F for the photo above...

    ... it's a progress shot from his 10-Week Challenge, so rad.

    (photo credit RVAHUB)

    ---

    165.6
    8ish hrs
    Push Ups Pull Ups and Squats
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

     

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    SOMETHINGS ARE BETTER NOT SAID

    SOMETHINGS ARE BETTER NOT SAID

    May 25, 2023 TODD BROWN

    I RAN INTO A FRIEND OF MINE who asked if I was going back to Leadville this summer.  He said he needed to go back because he'd had a major mishap...

    ... and couldn't let that be his last attempt.

    Who wants to end on a low?

    Not him.
    Not us.

    We want to go out on top, whatever that top is.

    Here's the weird thing though...

    ... few of our family and friends can relate to what we want to accomplish.

    That's actually not that weird, because our standards are so insanely far above the average adult.

    What's weird is the reactions of these friends and family.  
    The questions they ask, the looks on their faces.
    They just don't get it.

    I told him I wasn't going back that I needed a break, it's a massive commitment.

    You going back?

    For sure, can't let last year's flop be my last.

    That's cool, I'm stoked you're taking it on again.

    I knew you'd understand.

    For sure.

    It's gotten to the point where I rarely share these adventures and quests because nobody gets it.

    I'm right there with you.  We do these epic challenges just because we want to, it's our thing.

    You know what else?

    There's a lesson there, one we all know but...

    ... might not recognize.

    At least I didn't recognize it until recently.

    Wanting things magical.  Simply wanting something a lot opens up the pathway to making it possible.  In our case...

    ... the training, knowledge and plan.

    It all starts by simply wanting to do it, regardless of what everybody else thinks.

    We gotta want it.

     ---

    165
    7ish hrs
    Minimal cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    MY SECRET COMBINATION

    MY SECRET COMBINATION

    May 24, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THE THORN JAMMED IN MY THIRD KNUCKLE wasn't bothering me at all during my ride.  I could feel it catch as I slid my glove off, which was no big deal.  Then I knocked against the counter...

    ... yeah, I felt that real good.

    It was a reminder of how great the day had been.

    I'd gotten up early.
    Done my morning reading and writing.
    Followed by a quick session of cross training.
    I settled in at my desk and knocked out some good work.
    And finished the day riding single track trails with The Gentleman.

    It's amazing how quickly things can be accomplished when the habits are in place.

    James Clear, in Atomic Habits, says...

    ... If you want to do 50 pushups start by doing 5.

    Naval Revekant says...

    ... At the end of the day, we are the combination of our habits and the people we spend the most time with.

    To which I'll add...

    ... If you want to rip on raceday, start riding with purpose and meeting up with faster riders.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

    Did I mention, I'm relaunching this and the price is going up?  Join now, and get the current price.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

     ---

    165
    7ish hrs
    1 round of cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

     

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    YOUR CATEGORY LEADER

    YOUR CATEGORY LEADER

    May 23, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THE ANNOUNCER RAN DOWN THE LIST OF CATEGORY LEADERS, while I unloaded the van.. A few of my friend's names, and of course my frenemy's name...

    ... stuck out the most.

    This is the 4th week of our 8-week series.
    Only 6 count.
    It's on.

    At this point, everybody who has a chance at the series championship has raced at least once.  The leaders have all raced 3 races...

    ... but not everybody has.

    And those who have can still toss out 2 races.

    In other words, now the fun begins.

    My frenemy, Bob, got a coach this year.  My coach!  Damnit!!... 

    ... maybe I should get back on a formal training plan.

    I probably should.
    I might.

    My A race is still months off...

    ... I got time.

    For now, it's time to see how the weekly MTB race season unfolds.  We've had 2 different race winners and a lot of jumbling in the placings.

    Each week is gonna have some drama.

    The closer we get to race 8, the more the bars will be banging.

    ---

    By the way, how rad was today's final climb of the Giro?!.  They only have a few more days of hard climbing...

    ... it's gonna be epic.

    Nobody wants to leave it for the last hilly time trial.

    Too risky.

    But, sometimes fate has it's say and we just might get down the last day or two with seconds still remaining between the leaders.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

    Can't wait to check in with the club.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

     ---

    164.5
    7ish hrs
    0 round of cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

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    WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED?

    WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED?

    May 22, 2023 TODD BROWN

    THE FIRST CRIT SERIES I EVER DID made all the difference in the world.  Not because it was well run, or fancy, or challenging, or had any fans at all...

    ... it was the opposite.

    The amount of blood I shed on the second race still stains my memory.

    Who would go back to that week after week?

    Me.

    Here's why.

    The race was put on by the college ski coach, to help his athletes stay in shape. They raced the B race.  The actually racers did the A...

    ... newbs like me the C.

    Like all asphalt-roots crits, this one was staged in an out of the way place...

    ... the giant, aging football stadium parking lot.

    It was more packed gravel than pavement in spots, particularly the the turn I slid out in.

    I didn't care.

    Only 10 guys lined up.
    None of us knew what we were doing.
    Most of us placed, and occasionally won on a hot summer night.

    I was hooked.

    I hadn't won anything sporty to speak of since grade school...

    ... I was a very, very, very late bloomer.

    Finally, I'd bloomed and found something I was good at.

    But, what if first race was a legit California crit as a Cat IV?  
    150+ racers on the line was common back then.
    The speeds seemed insane.

    It's hard to imagine surviving a few laps.

    Nope, I needed Bobby Bills and his girlfriend telling us to Go!,
    Holding their silly posters with laps remaining,
    The ensuing squabble over who won.

    No photos or video,
    No race numbers on our back,
    No friends or family or spectators of any sort.

    A handful of athletes...

    ... tasting victory for the very first time.

    That's often all it takes to find a whole new world of adventure and the pursuit of personal excellence.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

     ---

    165.9
    7.5 hrs
    1 round of cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

    View Details
    THE BEST SUPPORT MONEY CAN'T BUY

    THE BEST SUPPORT MONEY CAN'T BUY

    May 21, 2023 TODD BROWN

    I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO WANTS YOU TO RIP ON RACEDAY, there are a whole lotta people pulling for you.  But, sometimes it feels like we're...

    ... grinding up hill with a headwind.

    Why?

    Because we aren't using our calendars properly.

    We have 'em.
    Sometimes fill 'em out.
    Completely neglect the most important parts.

    Here's how I do it, and it's improved every relationship I have and given me superior support on my A race...

    • Pencil in the A race, the sooner the better.
    • Show it to your important relationships - family and work for sure.
    • Add the the family and work dates in pen to your calendar.

    ... then go back and fill in your A race in pen - I like a fat, red Sharpie.

    Share your calendar with all that matter, often.

    Here's how to screw it up...

    • don't share the A race until it's a few weeks or months away
    • don't consider other events your supporters deem important
    • only have your A race on the calendar

    Can I share a little story?

    Here's how I set up my A race in 2022.

    • I put it on the calendar 3 years out.
    • I blocked out time to take Surfergirl on a surf trip to Mexico months prior to my A race.
    • I made sure to get to every family and work event I could.

    You know how you want your loved ones and friends to crush it at their thing?

    They want the same for you...

    ... the calendar and caption above are a perfect example.

    Pro tip:  check out their calendar, figure out a way to be there for them.

    Bonus:  if your calendar and goals aren't freaking you out, raise your standards.  A lot.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

    I'm in the process of dramatically upgrading the accountability club.  

    The price is also going to increase.  

    Those who join prior to the upgrade will be grandfathered in.

    https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-accountability 

     

    ---

    164.8
    8+ hrs terrible tossing and turning, too excited?
    No cross training
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

    View Details
    SYNCHRONIZED SPRINTING FOR THE BURRITO

    SYNCHRONIZED SPRINTING FOR THE BURRITO

    May 20, 2023 TODD BROWN

    MY PLAN WAS TO MAKE THE RIDE HARD.  When I found the Gambler and the Hulk loading up on caffeine at the corner bakery ...

    ... my little heart skipped a beat.

    Then 1 X Beard, Captain Smith, along with the regulars and some cat named Nico pulled up.

    Hellyeah!

    This was gonna give me a real read on my new favorite segment.

    ... how fast can we do it?

    Like the young buck I'm not, I started firing.  At Jeffery and Alton, The Hulk hit it so hard, only 1 X Beard and I latched on, trying to get through the next light about a half mile away...

    ... so began the synchronized sprinting.

    We barely missed it.

    Red light!
    Regroup.
    Green light!

    Over the freeway, 
    through the first round about,
    1 X Beard, Hulk and I were swinging.

    Red light!
    Regroup.
    Green light!

    Up a little hill,
    through the second, faster roundabout.

    The three of us are gone again.

    Charging to make every light we can,
    pulling through hard...

    ... I gotta skip a pull.

    Okay.

    These guys are a little bigger, and I hung on over the freeway which felt like an alp.

    Rotating,
    Pulling.

    Red light!
    The Gambler and Nico catch.
    Green light!

    The next climb up Tesla...

    ... my batteries are shot.

    Hulk, 1 x Beard
    gone.

    Nico
    in between.

    Gambler,
    on my wheel.

    It hurts so flipping bad.
    What should be a 2.3 minute power climb,
    ends up being a too dang close to 3 minutes.

    We catch Nico.

    Quick rotations.

    Somehow, the idiot who wanted to make the ride hard,
    the fool who thought he was a young buck,
    pulled to the next short climb.

    We're closing.

    All 3 of us out of the saddle.
    One of us off the back.

    Dadgummit!

    There's a shortcut.
    I scoff and chase onward.

    On Church Hill
    i can see 'em.

    Then I see the shortcutters.

    All together over the top for the long, long drop to the coast.

    Captain Smith waits,
    friends!

    We pedal like hell.

    There are lights coming up.

    Synchronized sprinting?

    No luck.

    But, we are making the lights too...

    ... at the last light before the 4ish miles to Laguna, we catch.

    Red light!
    Regroup.
    Green light!

    We're in the mid-30s, rotating strong.

    This is just what I had hoped for.

    Captain Smith and I head South,
    they head North.

    Only 3 miles and 1000' to go...

    ... For The Burrito!

    It took us 1:07.
    Can we break an hour?
    First person who does, the burrito is on me.

    ---

    163.6
    6.8 hrs terrible tossing and turning, too excited?
    Just PushUps and PullUps and a few Squats today.
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

     

    View Details
    TALK ABOUT BLOWING AWAY A PR

    TALK ABOUT BLOWING AWAY A PR

    May 19, 2023 TODD BROWN

    LAST NIGHT'S PODCAST WAS A GOOD ONE.  My scheduled guest had to bail due to emergency surgery.  Luckily I had a PRO MTB racer...

    ... and he had a very clear lesson.

    The thing about the podcast interviews is they always bring something neither of us were thinking of to the surface.

    This dude is a total stud.

    • Outstanding husband and father of 3
    • 2-Time winner of Leadville
    • National MTB Champion
    • Founder of Rouleur Development

    2 things stuck in my mind, which you might relate to.

    • His 20-year quest to qualify for MTB Worlds
    • Obliterating a difficult PR

    I knew he'd represented the US at MTB Worlds in Switzerland.  What I didn't know was that as a Junior, age 17, he was half a point away from going to Worlds...

    ... how heartbreaking would that be?

    Someone would quit.
    Many do.

    At 40, he was in the best shape of his life.  One a bunch of races, got the points and fulfilled his dream to carry our flag on the world stage.

    His son is now beating him, and his next quest is to hang on to his pro status so...

    ... they can race pro together.

    In the meantime, he's taken up Hard Enduro motorcycle racing.  If you don't know what that is, it is by far the most difficult and challenging offroad racing on the planet: https://youtu.be/pD5qc9aAB4w

    2 years ago, when he got into the sport, he found a terrible 1 mile climb.  It took him and a buddy 2 hours to get to the top...

    ... this week he did it in under 7 minutes!

    Bryson, how did you do that?

    Well... the same way I won Leadville and went to World's, I kept at it.

    Anything else?

    I entered and trained for 5 Hard Enduros.

    That's it?

    I also found a new group of people to ride with that taught me so much I could never learn on my own.

    Sound familiar?

    • Practice
    • Enter hard races
    • Ride with better riders

    That's Bryson Perry's raceday ripping, pr crushing formula.

    Here's the link to the actual podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raceday-ready-with-todd-b

    ---

    164.6
    8.2 hrs
    Just PushUps and PullUps today.
    20 minutes recovery  
    60 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

    View Details
    WHAT'S MORE COMPELLING... RIPPING OR CRUSHING?

    WHAT'S MORE COMPELLING... RIPPING OR CRUSHING?

    May 18, 2023 TODD BROWN

    BECAUSE MY 10-WEEK CHALLENGE has been incredibly successful in terms of downloads and attempts and an...

    ... utter failure at people finishing...

    ... I'm going to do a 5-Day Challenge.

    To get the name right, I texted 60 or so of my friends a question:

    Which is more compelling: Crush Your PRs or Rip On RaceDay?

    The answers were almost a 50/50 split, with a slight lean towards Rip On RaceDay.

    Of those, 50% were a quick answer and 50% quite thoughtful.

    Some people had a lot to say, but I think the winner was Cameron Hoffman...

    ... Crush your PRs is worn out.

    Before you tell me what matters more to you, and I do hope you'll reply and let me know... 

    ... here are my thoughts.

    PRs are such a good measure for our personal progress and readiness for racing.  In a world of tailwind assits, ebikes, and questionable supplement choices it can be hard to win a race or snag a KOM segment.  Only we know if it's a legit PR.

    Winning is not the goal of racing for me.  Yes, I definitely like to win and place well and climb the podium.  But, if I didn't have to go all out because I registered in an unchallenging category or few if any participated it can be a truly hollow victory.

    Ripping On RaceDay is the win for me.  Making a plan, working out the details and through the many challenges, arriving at the start line absolutely ready to rip and then racing hard start to finish...

    ... that is what compels me the most.

    As I'm writing this, my former t-shirt biz partner, Damion Hickman, votes for PRs with this...

    ... #PRCRUSHER.

    Now I'm swayed right back to Crushing PRs because that sounds so cool...

    ... we'll have to make that tshirt.

    Maybe we gotta go Johnny Cash at this point...

    ... PR Crushing, RaceDay Ripping, Sunuvagun!

    How about you?

    https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project

    One of the most fun things I do is create a custom kit for the biggest A races.  It's such a fun process.  That jersey up at the top is one I'm working on for Nationals. I added a fiery look, because I want to be on fire for that race.

    Did you know we have No MInimums for custom orders, and the designs are free?

    Crazy, I know...

    ... but, I'm crazy about helping you Rip and Crush!

    Creating custom gear is the best gift you will ever give your...

    ... PR Crushing, RaceDay Ripping Self.

    https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project

    ---

    165.4
    8 hrs
    Just PushUps and PullUps today.
    20 minutes recovery  
    90 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

     

    View Details
    BLOODIED AND SCARRED

    BLOODIED AND SCARRED

    May 17, 2023 TODD BROWN

    MY GLOVES TOLD THE ENTIRE STORY.  Once white and pristine, they were now covered with the stains of battle...

    ... will they ever be the same?

    My shins and forearms weren't much better.  A thousand little tears received as...

    ... we tore through the wildly overgrown trails.

    Thistles and nettles pricking and stinging.

    This is real.
    Physical.
    Fun.

    The blood and weed stains are the proof we are alive and well.  Screw the encroaching digital world...

    ... and its isolation and safety.

    We want adventure,
    and challenge,
    and danger.

    We need this,
    it bonds us together,
    strengthens our humanity.

    The best part is we are fit enough to love it!

    MY GLOVES TOLD THE ENTIRE STORY.  Once white and pristine, they were now covered with the stains of battle...

    ... will they ever be the same?

    My shins and forearms weren't much better.  A thousand little tears received as...

    ... we tore through the wildly overgrown trails.

    Thistles and nettles pricking and stinging.

    This is real.
    Physical.
    Fun.

    The blood and weed stains are the proof we are alive and well.  Screw the encroaching digital world...

    ... and its isolation and safety.

    We want adventure,
    and challenge,
    and danger.

    We need this,
    it bonds us together,
    strengthens our humanity.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    Good thing we have a Buy One Pair Get One Pair glove offer going...

    ... those little stitches across the forefinger are heat sensitive so we can operate our devices with gloves on.

    https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

    ---

    165.4
    8 hrs
    1 Circuit of RaceDay Ready Resistance Training
    20 minutes recovery  
    90 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

    View Details
    THE BEATER RESULTS ARE IN

    THE BEATER RESULTS ARE IN

    May 16, 2023 TODD BROWN

    RACED THE BEATER TONIGHT.  It was rough.  According to Starva, I worked significantly harder than previous two races.  According to the race results...

    ... I got smoked, again.

    This is going to be a fun nut to try to crack.

    There are 5 more races.
    5 more chances to figure out what the heck is going on.
    5 more weeks to get my race bike back in racing condition.

    But, I really don't think it's the bike.

    The guys are all riding really well.

    We had two new guys show up this week, and the Coxy, who's been beating us, skipped.

    Emilio won. For those of you keeping score at home, Emilio is my pal who I desperately managed to hold off for 2nd at the state road race last month.

    Look at his lap times.

    That's crazy, right!...

    ... how did he dose his effort so perfectly?

    Compare that to mine.

     Clearly, I cracked on the 2nd lap.

    I passed 4th place on the first lap, then he passed me back and put a minute and half into me.  Had to cheer him on...

    ... he's also named Todd.

    What am I gonna do between this week and next?

    • Order the parts to fix the race bike, but doubt they'll get here in time.
    • Try and drop some of the extra pounds I'm carrying.
    • Get in one more hard ride Saturday.
    • Recover, recover, recover.

    Anything else?

    • See what moving parts can be improved on the beater.
    • Maybe throw on some new tires.

    Is that it?

    • I'm tempted to cut out the daily cross training for the remaining weeks.

    ---

    165.4
    8 hrs
    1 Circuit of RaceDay Ready Resistance Training
    20 minutes recovery  
    90 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

    View Details
    BUSTING OUT THE BEATER

    BUSTING OUT THE BEATER

    May 15, 2023 TODD BROWN

    TOMORROW IS GONNA BE INTERESTING.  I'll be doing the local race on the bike I spend the most time on...

    ... I consider it my beater.

    Not only do I do most of my training on it,
    but I loan it out when someone comes to visit,
    and, I haven't done a lick of maintenance on it in months.

    Why do I ride it the most?

    Because it's oldish, 
    identical fit to my race bike,
    and ridiculously reliable day after day.

    Why race it?

    Well, the race bike's suspension is wonky and in need of love.

    Here's the interesting thing though.

    Is the ol' bike really a beater or have I just treated it like one?

    In its day it was top of the top,
    lots of carbon and tech,
    super light.

    It's lighter than my current race bike,
    shifts as good as or better than the electric stuff,
    and has a fork that is so plush I still giggle when it gets rough.

    Ya know what I'm gonna have to do, right?

    Convince myself this is fastest dern bike I own.

    Which reminds me about the second chapter in my book, The Way of The Racer...

    ... All You Can Do.

    All we can do is enough...

    ... not a haul pass to complain or make excuses.

    ---

    165.4
    8 hrs
    1 Circuit of RaceDay Ready Resistance Training
    20 minutes recovery  
    90 minutes reading + Journaling 

    Podcast:

     

     

    https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

    https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries

    https://twitter.com/pedalindustries 

     

    View Details