It was nearly 20 years ago that I had the fastest 40 km training ride of my life. Although I exceeded it a few times in races, it was the only time that I ever reached 35 kms/hr over that distance during regular workouts. That's why I remember it so well.
Today was short bike day, and as such I decided that a 20 km tempo ride was in order. I told you that me legs were a bit sore the last few days, and although there was still a bit of tenderness this morning they were decidedly better. Regardless, with my new found emphasis on smart training I was totally prepared to turn it into an easy ride if things didn't feel just right.
After my warmup things felt okay and so I stomped on the gas. I have a nice little block just 8 kms form home that suits the purpose well, and it was a glorious day for riding, 20 degrees with very little wind.
I rode 20.1 kms, at an average speed of 35.1 kms/hr, and despite my tongue in cheek title, I am totally happy with that. Everything was perfect. Heart rate at 135 average...perfect! Cadence at 92 average...perfect! First half power at 194 watts, second half at 195...perfect!
I can't empathize enough how valuable the power meter is. It truly allows you to gauge your effort throughout, unlike speed which is completely at the mercy of wind and hills. I no longer even display my current speed as I ride because I don't want the distraction. Definitely the most gratifying data from the entire ride was the balance in power from start to finish. Perfect!!
So, 40 kms twenty years ago, 20 kms today. Still half the man I used to be, and damn proud of it!!
Oh and today I also did a little 5K run which I certainly did not do after my 40k of yesteryear.
ride 36 kms, 20K tempo, 5K transition run.
"It takes half your life before you discover life is a do-it-yourself project."---Napoleon Hill
Today was short bike day, and as such I decided that a 20 km tempo ride was in order. I told you that me legs were a bit sore the last few days, and although there was still a bit of tenderness this morning they were decidedly better. Regardless, with my new found emphasis on smart training I was totally prepared to turn it into an easy ride if things didn't feel just right.
After my warmup things felt okay and so I stomped on the gas. I have a nice little block just 8 kms form home that suits the purpose well, and it was a glorious day for riding, 20 degrees with very little wind.
I rode 20.1 kms, at an average speed of 35.1 kms/hr, and despite my tongue in cheek title, I am totally happy with that. Everything was perfect. Heart rate at 135 average...perfect! Cadence at 92 average...perfect! First half power at 194 watts, second half at 195...perfect!
I can't empathize enough how valuable the power meter is. It truly allows you to gauge your effort throughout, unlike speed which is completely at the mercy of wind and hills. I no longer even display my current speed as I ride because I don't want the distraction. Definitely the most gratifying data from the entire ride was the balance in power from start to finish. Perfect!!
So, 40 kms twenty years ago, 20 kms today. Still half the man I used to be, and damn proud of it!!
Oh and today I also did a little 5K run which I certainly did not do after my 40k of yesteryear.
ride 36 kms, 20K tempo, 5K transition run.
"It takes half your life before you discover life is a do-it-yourself project."---Napoleon Hill
Love
Peter
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