Returning to training
It’s easy to finish on a high and get straight back into your training on Monday like nothing has happened. While it’s good to train when you’re buzzing with motivation following an event, if you do this too many times then little-by-little your form may start to plateau as you return to training and push too hard too soon before your body is ready for the next block of work.
If you need to take a couple of days off at the start of the following week then do so, gentle recovery rides in a low gear with high cadence are a master at bringing your legs back around after a big day in the saddle. Make sure that you’re fully recovered both physically and mentally before you start your training again.
Make a note of what went well for you and where you found things tougher than you thought. Use this to your advantage to tailor your training accordingly, maybe you need to work on your base fitness still to build endurance, focus on your climbing technique, or perhaps it’s time to step up the intervals to bring on that extra speed. Whatever the outcome of the event use it as a positive to make sure that your training compliments the time you have available and the objectives that you’ve set.
If anyone has any questions or needs further advice then feel free to contact me on Twitter @cottydale.
Good luck with your first event my friends! Ride smart, ride safe and above all have fun!
Mike Cotty
