Once it was observed that many of the benefits seen with longer and easier training sessions were also seen with shorter and harder workouts, the next step was to identify which changes do and do not occur among the two training modalities.  By analyzing training adaptations at different intensities in individuals of various fitness, multiple changes occur…

The off-season doesn’t exist to many racers on structured training plans. It’s a period to race cyclo-cross and/or recover for a short bit before prepping for the next season’s races. This period can also be tremendously beneficial in gaining fitness. However, the elements are against most racers with cold weather, snow and ice, and jobs…

The search for performance enhancement leads some athletes to turn some pretty dark corners. It’s a shame, and not just because doping is dangerous, unethical, and frequently illegal. It’s also a shame because athletes at all levels of play have access to a powerful tool to improve their performance, one that won’t break any laws…

What length is your road crank? If you are less than 5 feet tall you are likely running 165mm cranks. If your height is 5’5” – 6 feet you are likely spinning 172.5mm cranks. Over 6 feet and the length “standards start to vary.” 175mm? 180? Custom length specially made? What actually makes these the…

Many things go into a pedal stroke. Consider that the daily commuter just pushes down on his flat pedals, making one dimension of force. As this commuter pedals harder to make the red light, his RPMs increase and he starts to bounce on the saddle and inefficiently gain speed to make the light. On the…

One interesting aspect of studying exercise physiology is the ability to incorporate a multi-discipline approach to developing new ideas. The major underlying theme is the body being placed under a form of stress and monitoring the response. The crossover between exercise science and medical research is well founded as it’s not uncommon to see researchers…

Denial–  I’m fit.  I’m just having a bad day. Anger–  I’m so mad I let myself get so unfit. I’m getting fit now!  These guys are a-holes for showing me I’m unfit. Bargaining–  If I get through this, I’m going to start training 30 hours a week so I’m never unfit again. Depression–  I’m so…

This post really has nothing to do with fitness, coaching or anything of performance value.  Actually, it reminded me exactly why it is so very difficult to write about things that truly move you……. Sometimes it takes an event that can described as nothing except sorrowful to give you a bold reminder of your mortality.…