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Endurance Training

Endurance is a key ingredient for all cyclists. Most endurance riding is conducted at a lower training intensity that the athlete can sustain for multiple hours, not at intervals that the athlete can sustain for an hour or seventy-five minutes. Realize that professional cyclists can ride an "easy" pace that most other non-professional and recreational cyclists have to work at a higher intensity to produce the same speed. Knowing and measuring this intensity is can help you move toward your potential better than estimating it using a chart.

The best way to find out what your optimal pace is by conducting a VO2 test to determine your specific intensity training zones. Interested in your VO2 May? Check with the store as we schedule several VO2 Max test a year at the store. When working endurance an athlete can focus on their limiters such as strength or speed as well.

Bike selection and geometry are of importance as well. Having the right position on the bike can make your long days more enjoyable and economical, allowing you to travel faster or farther with less effort.The fit specialist at Crofton Bike Doctor are available to assist you in making you and your bike even more efficient.

The take aways ~

            ~ Endurance is an essential part of cycling, it may be as long as a 25 mile ride you are aiming for, or a longer ride of 200 miles or more.

            ~ Understanding your unique physiology is an essential part of endurance riding, getting a VO2 test will let you know what your training intensities are.

            ~ Bike selection is key based on your goals, whether it is 25 or a cross country trip having the right bike for you and your goals will make the process much more enjoyable.

 

Coach Mike Matney

Coach Mike Matney is a local coach of triathletes and cyclists. He has qualified athletes for the Hawaii Ironman World Championships, Half Ironman World Championships, XTERRA National Championships, National Age Group Olympic Championships as well as coaching many age group athletes to achieve podium spots as age group athletes and successful completion of their ultra endurance events.

Coach Mike Matney competes in triathlons of all distances up to Ironman, XTERRA, mountain bike racing, and is an alternate rider for Team4Mil, an 8 man team competing in the Race Across America (RAAM)

He has over 20 years experience in the US Army, is married to his wonderful wife Christine and enjoys spending his off time with his three daughters. Mike may be reached via e-mail.