But you'll see next year when you start racing, CC. Spectating a race from one perspective can be very misleading because so much else can happen other places on the course (in any type of race). I definitely think you can learn a lot by spectating, and I recommend it for all new racers before they even attempt to race. You're in a good position, CC -- you'll have an entirely new perspective on the various disciplines. But you've already learned a lot more about racing and training than most new racers, so you're going to do great.



I'm a big believer in training specifically for the demands of the sport, so once you start racing you'll be able to train even more effectively since you can analyze your PT files from different types of races. You'll see what the physical demands are and you'll be able to replicate those in your training. You're leaps and bounds ahead of other beginner racers because you're starting to understand how power works and also what your personal strengths are.

It's interesting, because if you ask a racer what the specific demands of a given race are based on HR (or perceived exertion), their perception might be very different than the reality they'd see by analyzing a power file of their performance. That's why I'm amazed so many folks train with power but don't use their power meters in races. They're missing the opportunity to collect some very valuable data that would help them train more efficiently.

Back to cross, the best cross racers are also able to optimize their power output on less-than-favorable terrain. New racers might be soft-pedaling on bumpy terrain (as they watch the leaders ride away from them). Experienced racers will hammer on the bumpy terrain and descents. It just comes with experience. One of my mantras in cross is "pedal, pedal, pedal, go, go, go." Sometimes I yell it at my clients, friends, and teammates during the races, too. I also ask myself throughout the race if I'm going as hard as I can. Unfortunately, the way courses are designed here (flat and fast with some short climbs and run-ups), there really isn't anywhere for recovery unless you just aren't putting the torque to the pedals.