Making the best of things...

We've had it quite easy the last few winters in CT. Since I started riding, this is probably the "worst" yet. Excessive snowfall and arctic cold have produced several Jens Factor 5 days. But I guess in a way, it's a good thing- this whole getting off the bike for a couple months (well, not completely) helps to refresh the body and the nervous system as it won't be long before we're BLOWN from the hard rides to come. I can't imagine if I lived in Southern California; I'd probably be perpetually overtrained.

The offseason is a good time to work on things that are neglected throughout the year when we're turning the cranks tens of thousands of times. It's funny how unathletic I feel this time of year when I explore other arenas of fitness. Hip flexibility and core and upper body strength have completely hit the fan. I remember the days when I could run and jump like a deer but I suppose those days are behind me now. I often like to say, "the older we get, the better we were." So true.

I've managed to get out on the bike when there's Jens Factor 4 or lower and if there's significant snow, then snowshoeing it is. I think continuing to get exercise outside is good for the mind this time of year as diminished daylight can really get you down. (Although, we are heading back the other way now.) I've probably been snowshoeing a half dozen times or so and let me tell ya, it's a heluva workout. The movement is almost identical to climbing hills out of the saddle. I've actually seen HR's in the low 180's going hard up a steep hill with 2+ feet of snow. I went backcountry xc skiing once and my hip flexors were sore for 3 days. Skate skiing is tantalizing but I guess it's my unwillingness to travel to a good place to do it, my lack of gear, and my impatience in learning proper technique that have kept me away. I believe I blew out all my patience learning a new sport with swimming 5 years ago.

With nearly 19k miles in the legs over the last 3 seasons, I'm not so concerned about "base" at this point. I believe I have a base level of fitness in the legs. I'm just trying to work on weaknesses at this point which include but are not limited to core strength/flexibility and leg strength all while decreasing the old bodyweight. Apr. 2nd is the first mtb race of the season, a mere 10 weeks away.

Got blood drawn this morning for 1st blood test in 15 years. I'm anxious to see really how healthy I am.

Saw a post from Todd Holland on Facebook last night:

http://www.ultracycling.com/events/GMD.htm

Never done a double before and that would be one mother of a way to pop the cherry on that. I know the word "epic" is probably overused, but if this isn't epic then I don't know what is. I might have to email that sicko Sandy for some details.