A Century Ride

Over the past year, I have evolved from a casual rider to the more obsessive compulsive cyclist.  The progression has resulted in untold financial expenditures, a new Trek X0-1, riding one hour every morning at 5am, and  several progressively longer rides.  I have lost 30 lbs the first year and 20 lbs this last year.  Not bad accomplishments for a Grey Beard.  This year I have committed to riding my first century on June 24th. 

My Trek 2010 XO-1

In true form, I have identified my critical path:

-3 Season cycling combined with a Fluid Trainer
-Heart Zones Training to establish baselines.
-Research a 30-50 mile trail based circuit.
-A 10 Week Century Training Program.
-Finalize the route.
-Enjoy the Ride!

I am involved in the first two steps of this process.  I have acquired a fluid trainer and established a comfort level. Over the past two weeks including multiple trips to Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com, I have selected the programs and books to guide me on this journey.

The first major milestone will be next week, as I attempt to establish my true MHR or Maximum Heart Rate.  Common belief is that this is a magical formula of 220 -(your age).  The hard truth of my reading is that this is bogus for any training program. I have come across 2 highly recommended books regarding heart zone training and Indoor cycling training;  "Heart Zone Cycling" by Sally Edwards & Sally Reed  and "Workouts in a Binder" by Dirk Friel and Wes Hobson.

Edwards and Reed include a series of ride criteria for various goals and assessments.  Next week I will be attempting their "Larger than Life" ride which as an assessment ride takes you near your MHR.  In short, after a warm up evolving into bottom of Zone 2 you step up your heart rate every 15 seconds.  By the way, you can consult with a medical or sports clinic and obtain your MHR and VO2Max through  carefully monitored medical workouts.  I did attempt this once in less than desirable circumstances and I will probably do this again under better circumstances. 

The self assessment of this effort so far, is that there is a wide variety of conflicting information about training, and heart zone training.  I believe that I have selected very credible sources.  The key to this entire effort will be to have fun and enjoy the ride.

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Nothing compares to the simple
pleasure of a bike ride. 
John F. Kennedy
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