Event preparation is like a double-edged sword. Just look at me, for example.

Because of the pulled hamstring I suffered in early October, I had to ride very short and very easy for three weeks. Then, because I’m working to correct my left leg’s pedaling technique, I’ve continued to keep my rides shorter and easier than usual.

I want to get back into good condition; and it seems to be taking quite a long time.  It’s easy for me to think that having a century planned for next April is the incentive I need to really work at it.

It might be. I know I need to increase my cruising speed; and that might be the prod I need to work on intervals to improve my strength. Knowing that I’ll be riding 100 miles in a day in just five months might goad me into pushing for longer rides right now.

On the other hand, having that 100-miler looming could prove frustrating if I’m not improving as fast as I would like. If I skip a ride or two because the weather is horrible; or I’m feeling very tired; I feel guilty. I would also worry that skipping rides will mean that I won’t be adequately prepared come event day.

So there you have it. Event prep can cut both ways. It’s a double-edged sword.