As much as I have read about cycling over the years, has always inspired debate over training alone or in a group. Since I have been training for several events, whether it has been the Marine Corps Marathon, Boston Marathon or one of the many triathlons I have completed, it has always been alone. I find that the solitude out on the road clears my head and provides a certain bit of motivation. I have read hundreds of running and cycling magazines that praise the camaraderie of group training, but to me it is the long lonely day in the saddle that is most grarifying....with one exception!
A few years ago my neighbor Eric bought a bike and began to accompany me out on my weekend rides. Eric and I would go out for several hours on the bike, each taking our turns on the front to cut the wind. Due to my training for the Etape this year, I started riding much earlier this year, which has prevented Eric and I from getting many training rides in together. We were able to get out on the bike yesterday, and the weather couldn't have been more perfect. 85 degrees, sunny, and very little wind. Sunday was a recovery day for me, and we enjoyed a nice easy 21 mile spin through some very beautiful farm country. When I go riding with Eric, there is always an adventurous spirit about the routes that we take. We often try new roads, just to see where they lead us. Thanks again to my good friend, for all of the great conversation and laughs during our rides, I guess that some training partners are worth their weight in gold! Thanks buddy!
This week's training has included some very interesting elements. An indoor spin on the trainer, a very wet and dangerous 20 mile Wednesday night ride, and a very fast 55 miles on a gorgeous Saturday in 3 hours and 4 minutes. My bike came back from the shop on Friday riding better than it did the day I bought it! The weather looks good for this week........I hope these good training trends continue for me!
Kyle
I totally agree with you Kyle. I too have trained for my 6 marathons on my own and enjoyed doing so. It's 'me' time and something I enjoy. But cycling for hours on end is much more fun with someone. I cycle with my mate Ed and whilst he's a better rider, he doesn't mind waiting at the tops of hills :-) for me. I had to ride on my own this weekend and Saturday's 87 felt very long.
ReplyDeleteKyle, did you know you have your Etape number? I was looking for mine and I thought I'd check for yours. There does seem to be two of you.
ReplyDelete6299 (6001 - 6500) SCHNEIDER Kyle B
6308 (6001 - 6500) SCHNEIDER Kyle B