Last 3 weeks of training for 111 hilly miles

[Bklynmom]

I bet you will rock on your ride. My neighbor the gym teacher claims that it can take 6 weeks for a training program to show improvements in your athletic performance - remember - your muscles actually get stronger while your resting, when they re-build.

My last heavy Long Distance ride was about 6 weeks ago. Not really on purpose, but I fell going to NJ for a long ride about 5 weeks ago, (Plastic bottle on entrance to GW Bridge) and had to take it easy for a week (elbow not broken). I did a century end of May that was flat and easy.

I have been doing lots of 30 - 35 mile rides with intense hill repeats. 3 weeks ago I spent 2 days in the Berkshire mountains, 35 miles one day and 25 the next. Last weekend I did 75 miles spread over the wekend. Hopefully this is enough.

This will be a good test to see if intensity triumphs over mileage.

I also belatedly got myself a pro bike fit and coach - same great guy! The fit totally changed my position on the bike and dramatically improved my breathing and hill climbing. I went on a great ride with him this morning - mostly fast and flat.

In some ways, I could have done better planning for this in hindsight, but considering I stared out a slightly fit 149 lbs 47 year old, I sure feel great today, and I'm now 48.

I think you are being really smart about your training - betcha the results will be excellent.

Looking forward to your report!

Lisa

[Starfish]

I have been doing lots of 30 - 35 mile rides with intense hill repeats. 3 weeks ago I spent 2 days in the Berkshire mountains, 35 miles one day and 25 the next. Last weekend I did 75 miles spread over the wekend. Hopefully this is enough.

Your training sounds awesome. Harder than mine, for sure! I'll send a report when I get back!