Easy does it; at least, sometimes it does.

When we decide we want to become a better cyclist, what do we do? We train.

What does \”better cyclist\” mean? If we want to do a long ride, whether on our own or in a group, it means training up. Training is how we improve the ability to ride longer; or faster; or even both. Wanting to become a racing cyclist means even more training.

I can easily be tempted to do hard efforts, trying see how fast I can go. The temptation strikes often enough when I should be riding at a steady, moderate pace; or even doing an easy ride. But I know that this isn\’t a good idea, even for a recreational cyclist. For the serious cyclist, overtraining is a constant specter. Even seasoned pro cyclists must guard against overtraining.

How do we go about that?

In the days before Garmins and power meters, they used RPE. Some even say that using RPE has an advantage over using all these electronic devices, because athletes using RPE are better in tune with their bodies.

I take the lazy way out and use a Garmin. It lets me keep tabs on my heart rate as I ride; and if I start feeling too \”gaspy\” I\’ll check my heart rate. I might need to ease up! After a ride I\’ll consult an RPE chart and think about how my ride felt on average, and determine my RPE from that.

Sure, go hard sometimes. It\’s how we get stronger. But when the day comes for an easy ride, well, easy does it!

Post