Quote Originally Posted by kaian
... but I think next season I'll ride with another group to get my speed up and learn the ropes.

Does anyone have any favorite trainer drills? I'm using Spinervals here and there.
Yes, definitely start riding with groups. Not only do you learn drafting, but you'll feel much more comfortable in them. Remember, racing involves bunch sprints, chases mid-race and much much much drafting. It's also riding at very close quarters, and often you'll touch shoulders, handlebars, etc. You absolutely HAVE to know how to and feel comfortable riding in situations like that, or you'll be a danger to everyone there. After a while of riding with others, you'll develop a "feel" for your space. A quick glance behind with only your peripheral vision will give you a mental "map" of where everyone is. These two things, knowing how much room you need and where everyone is, will help you in swinging out to attack, sprinting against targeted competitors, maneuvering within the peloton, etc. It's an absolute essential to have that "pack" sense.

As for the trainer, I found, oddly enough, that riding at the start of the news hour or my favorite show and riding to the very end of it makes time fly by. Hammer during the commercials, cruise during the show. Easy as eating Thanksgiving pie! I've even prolonged a trainer session by saying "ok, just one more American Idol singer"....then another, and another.