Getting It Back

Since the end of my tri season I've kept working out and have even had a schedule. However, I've more or less just used it as a very general guide and over time it led to me doing what I want when I want. Again, it's not a terrible thing, but in the last week or two I've started to notice the loss of fitness. And a gain in weight. Not terrible, but I don't need it to be terrible to be noticeable. So now it's time to get it back. My fitness, that is, and it started this weekend.

Yesterday I raced CX which was good and hard. In fact, it was even harder than I thought since I zonked on the couch a while after I got home. The legs are expected to be fatigued, but what's really draining is the amount of energy it zaps from the rest of my body. Trying to keep it together when going over all the bumps (yesterday was pretty bumpy throughout the whole course), and the occasional running while carrying the bike doesn't sound like much, but doing it repeatedly while redlined did me in. Today I backed it up with a mountain bike ride outside of Golden with Nate, Brant, and Ed. The ride is pretty tough from all aspects, including a hard climb and a very technical downhill.

Early on I knew I didn't have the top end strength I'd need for some of the more technical uphill sections, but was able to get in an okay groove one I got warmed up some. Still, I was gassing pretty early but since it wasn't a race I was able to back off and take breaks as needed. My legs just weren't there, which is just another sign of the fitness and strength that I've lost since the season ended. Finally, after dodging a bunch of hikers (who were all very courteous and stepped off to the side to let us through) that were out chasing leaves that are changing colors, we made it to the top before turning the wheels down over a lot of technical terrain. I was definitely glad to have my Yeti 575 for that since my technical abilities are far from fantastic!

Even with the technical terrain being above my head, it was still a lot of fun. I took a couple runners off the bike but never went down hard and didn't get hurt. And with the leaves changing like they were, it was gorgeous scenery and a great day to be out there. Definitely need to take advantage of these nice weekends while we still can since it's going to be hats and jackets before too long.

Now that the ride's done and I have two solid days on the bike in, it's time to get back at training on a little bit more regular schedule. As long as I'm doing something each day, I'll be happy. In addition to simply enjoying working out and how I feel afterwards (and all the food it afford me the opportunity to eat!), I want to maintain a good base this off season so I can build on it next season and keep getting faster. In the meantime, it's nice to get out and ride a bike because it's fun and not have to stare at a power meter to maintain watts. There will be plenty more time for that over the winter.