The biggest drain on my riding resources was a persistent cold. The damn thing would not go away no matter what I did. I could workout but I had only 80% power or less during the exercises. (What a drag.) I tried mega doses of vitamin C, rest, steam, massages, drinking a ton of water and anything else people suggested. What worked was time. It took 6 weeks but the cold finally ended. I felt I was somewhat lucky because I did not have the hacking cough that many people had but dragging my butt around for 6 weeks was way too long.
I was also not able to consistently ride because my Uncle Buddy died. I visited him in Dallas when he was in hospice and then I attended the funeral. He was the oldest male of the family and now that moniker falls to me. It was sad to see Uncle Buddy in hospice, especially when I remembered the fun times we had together. However I am glad we had some time together.
The net result of the winter was that my fitness decreased. I know my fitness decreased because I could not finish the 40mn supermax test. At the 20mn mark I was having a hard time keeping my watts up. At the 30mn mark my legs gave out. That has never happened before. I just could not go on, my legs were toast. This was very discouraging especially because I work so hard. When I am most discouraged I feel that never has anyone worked so hard and made so little gains.
Since all of the trials and tribulations of winter it has taken me another 4 weeks of consistent work to regain form. Thankfully I am feeling better and I am riding with more confidence. Also my fitness has returned. The doctor said my vitals were great, HR 45, PB 106/60. Not too bad for an old guy.
So what is the moral of this winter tail of woe. Consistency is the key. That's it, no more to say. I'm back on the bike and back on the road. Bike Camp here I come.
So what is the moral of this winter tail of woe. Consistency is the key. That's it, no more to say. I'm back on the bike and back on the road. Bike Camp here I come.
