Road Bike Racing - 2nd Off Season Question...

This was my first year racing so it's pretty new to me what cyclist do during the off season. I've read a few books that recommened base training(long slow rides) and cross training to avoid burnout. At a few races I've met a few people that have recommended that I give track a try. Each of them commented that I'll be perfect for track because of my size and power(what power, haven't won a race yet) and that it would improve my sprint and pedaling efficiancy.

Question is... Anyone on here does track during the off season and how does it affect your racing season?

The books state that we're supposed to take it easy during the off-season however I doubt I'll be taking it easy on the track..

Thanks,

If you like it ride track. It will be great for some aspects of bike racing, and seeing as you are new to the sport, you probably need experience in all aspects of the sport.

I don't buy into the whole "off season" thing. For me, I ride when and how I want.

But if you're seriously into improving yourself as a racer, I'd say the 2 things you should focus on are:
- don't lose fitness / get fat. This means watching your diet as the riding volume drops off, and staying away from the holiday booze and pounds. This also means, don't drop the speed work. Cut back, yes. Stop, no.
- don't get burned out on riding. So do whatever non-cycling activity keeps you fit. Cut back your riding to the point that you are thinking "geez, another weight room day... when can I ride again"

Just my .02. Your mileage may vary. Void where prohibited.

do you have an indoor track or is it just warm? i wish i could do track in the winter....

We have both here in Los Angeles. The indoor track is closest to me. I'll give it a try in October..

I've read a few books that recommened base training(long slow rides) and cross training to avoid burnout.

Please read the books again. I bet that it says long STEADY distance, not slow. What they mean is to get in a lot of saddle time at a pace where you can do it day after day after day without burn out. Depending on your fitness this is not necessarily slow. For me it would be 2 mph slower than a nice hard tempo ride for 50 miles, but riding it for 80+ miles.