E-Coach Training Tips
Here is this week’s E-coaching tip….
This week’s tip deals with the benefits of pre-riding (or running) the race course.
This is an important part of your race preparation as it will help you better prepare for the intricacies of the course, fine tune your strategies and training, as well as other logistical knowledge.
The race course; Check out the start area, what gear do you want to be in at the beginning? Key locations on the course such as the hills; what gear do I need for them, are they short and steep, longer grinds? This will help you meter your efforts and intensity. Which rear cassette do I need for the race? How about road conditions; where are the bumpy or cracked sections located, what about sewer covers and train track crossings, so I can watch out for them. Check out the finish line, approach, and key features.
Course markers or points of interest; remember these areas and their location on the course. How far in between the major climbs or aid stations? They will also help you remember how far it is to the finish line or when to take in nutrition. Measure these key distances with your computer or gps to help your training and on race day too.
Logistics; How long of a drive to get to the race site, so I know when to leave to arrive on time. Where are the bathrooms located? We all have the pre-race jitters or shakedowns. This could be critical as start time approaches. Where are good places to warm-up; out on the course or bring the trainer for the parking lot? Know the typical weather and wind directions. Yeah, it’s tough in New England so be prepared for everything Mother Nature could potentially throw at you. Similar to the hills, knowing where the typical headwinds and tailwinds are will also help you know when to increase the intensity and when to save energy.
Train smart, race smart, and always be safe…..
Our Tel-E-Vision link will have uploaded course video with key details for each race. This can also help if you can’t get out on the course for a training ride before the big race. Watch the forum as we are planning on recon rides of the Timberman course every weekend until race day.
See you out there….