I had hoped that 2021 would be the beginning of the end of covid 19 but here in Ireland, it’s never been worse. We’re in our third lock down which for me means I can’t travel more than 5km from my home.
Double this to fact that it’s a pretty wet and cold January so far, meaning icy roads. So I’ve resigned to the fact that I have to do all of my training for January on a turbo trainer.
I’ve signed up to Zwift which I must admit, I’m enjoying it more than I thought. It makes the whole inside training experience much more social. And I’m not even using it properly. You always seem to settle into a rhythm with other Zwifters. You are able to interact with each other, although I never have. I don’t know how people can text and ride. I’d be way too sweaty.
That being said, whenever you get into a little group it can take your attention away from the boredom of riding on a turbo. The thought that each of these avatars are actually other people riding their bikes somewhere in the world at this exact moment really helps me connect with the whole experience.
If you have to train indoors too then I highly recommend Zwift. There’s no contract so I’ll just stop using it whenever I’m allowed outside again.#
Training update
As for the training itself, it has never gone better. I got a power meter before Christmas and I’m learning more now than I ever did.
My coach, Niel Copeland from Turn Cycling has me doing a lot of work this month to build my aerobic capacity. This block of training is pretty tough but by using my heart rate monitor and power meter we can start to see real benefits. This in turn gives me encouragement to keep going when it gets tough.
Feeding effects when riding
I can also see the effect of feeding while I ride. Every week I have 3 hours sessions at 70-75% of ftp, along with other shorter sessions.
In the first week I can see that my cardiac drift, the amount my heart beat raises over time while staying at the same power, was over 12%.
Niel pointed out that I should have been drinking and eating more. The next week the cardiac drift was down to 5%. This week it’s down to under 2%.
I never realized just how important it is keeping hydrated. I used to think 1.5 liters was enough for me for a 4 ride. Now I can see that my performance can be raise instantly just by drinking more.
As I said, it’s only when you can see this progress is when it motivates you. Of course the fact that I’m doing it on a turbo is also helping as I don’t have to worry about stopping for traffic lights or slowing for corners. The training is constant and consistent.
I really can’t wait until I get back out on the road to see what this progress means in regards to how far I can travel without flagging.
Weight Progress?
In regards to weight loss, I’m still struggling. Any weight I lost before Christmas was put back on. I still have about 15 kg to lose but I have to try to find a balance so I’m not in too much of a calorie deficit or my training will be affected.
My current diet plan is to just eat simple whole foods. So that means staying away from processed foods and junk food. I hope to be down to weight by June.
Riding For Charity
I’ve decided to do the RAI Irish Ultra Challenge in aid of Cycle Against Suicide. I feel that this is a worthy cause, especially considering people’s mental health from the fallout of covid.
I have another reason for choosing a charity. The RAI Irish Ultra Challenge is a fully supported race. I feel that asking people to give up their time to just support me would be a bit self centered.
By having a charity to get behind I believe we can become a more balanced team. We will all be working towards a goal together, rather than them just being there to help me achieve my dream.