First off, happy Mother’s Day to all you moms out there! Hope you’re having (or had) a great day.
Today was a recovery ride and what a gorgeous day here in TN! Temps are in the 80’s, no humidity (rare for us) and no wind.
With the nice conditions, I was tempted to pick up the pace but next weekend is TOSRV56 so I stuck to my tapering plan; I need to be fully charged for that double century.
For the curious, here’s my formula for a successful recovery ride:
- I ride alone. I’ve found that my Rogue Racing teammates have differing opinions on what a recovery ride is plus it’s hard to find a “one pace fits all.” Besides, as an introvert, I need the alone time to recharge.
- I choose a flat route which in Middle Tennessee means I still have climbs but nothing major or that rate being categorized.
- Spin at 90-100 RPM; pace is conversational, but since I’m alone, this looks like I’m having a psychotic break, so I keep my thoughts to myself.
- Avoid the big ring as much as possible. Not a hard rule but it does help me keep it “easy like Sunday morning.”
- Keep arms/hands & upper body relaxed. As Bernard Hinault says: “You should be able to play the piano on a steep climb.” Of course, I’m a bass player, so I’m not sure what to make of Hinault’s advice:)
Happy riding!
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