I just added a new book to my Shop. Climb! is the latest from Selene Yeager, aka the \”Fit Chick\”.

I bet this is an interesting read. There aren\’t hills where I live, much less anything approximating Mont Ventoux. All the same, I\’m sure I could use the advice about developing strength in my climbing muscles by doing off-bike exercises.

With no hills around, why am I thinking about training for climbing? I\’m considering riding this year\’s local Tour de Cure; the 63-mile route. I\’m not too worried about the distance itself, especially as I have about nine months to work up to it. My concern is my pace; especially if event day means a stiff headwind!

So why didn\’t I practice riding hard into the wind this morning? I could have, and maybe should have. I certainly had the opportunity! Answer (excuse?): I\’ve felt \”off\” for about four days now. At first it felt like I was getting a cold, but this hasn\’t progressed like a cold. Maybe it\’s allergy. Whatever it is, it makes me feel tired and unenergetic.

Climb! isn\’t entirely about the physical aspects of riding uphill. It\’s also about proper fueling and recovery; how to choose the best gear/cadence for your climbing needs; and turning off negative thoughts.

Now if only I had more room in my bookcase!