El_Scorchio

I am new to road racing, have bought my first bike, and am getting out as much as possible.

But i am finding it difficult to understand the correct route with regards to training, endurance, stamina, food intake for the rides i am doing etc.

Is there somewhere i can go to get a better understanding of these things.

Is it worth buying a heart rate monitor for training, and as a novice will i understand this information.

in my mind i have the desire to and commitment to get the most from my rides, and in the end want to enter competitions, but before that i need help with the basics.

thanks

late

I am new to road racing, have bought my first bike, and am getting out as much as possible.

<><> This belongs in the racing forum <><>

But i am finding it difficult to understand the correct route with regards to training, endurance, stamina, food intake for the rides i am doing etc.

<><> It's tough. Ask in the racing forum, google periodised training schedules,
buy a training book, you could even get a coach. <><>





Is it worth buying a heart rate monitor for training, and as a novice will i understand this information.

<><> Absafragginglutely. If you need help get the Heart Rate Monitor Book
by Edwards and Reed. You don't need an expensive HRM. If you want to get a cheap one try this...
https://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?c...art%20Monitors
I have been using the next model up, the Fit 3 for a couple years and like it. <><>

in my mind i have the desire to and commitment to get the most from my rides, and in the end want to enter competitions, but before that i need help with the basics.

<><> Single best piece of advice in cycling history...
"Ride lots"
Eddy Merckx <><>

ThinLine

Before you start signing up for races, I would put many many miles of training into your routine. Start at varying terrain with some hilly sections. Practice climbing (hands on hoods), sprinting (hands on drops) and flat riding (change positions on bar for comfort) with the associated techniques for all. Remember to think of your legs like pistons up and down NOT side to side.
Note: Climbing should be practiced in and out of the saddle.

If you have a friend who rides, practice riding together and keeping a tight line. Keep chatter to a minimum.

Just some good general advice.

rizz

There are many ways to prepare for racing, an most involve heart rate zones or a power meter. You'll begin with some base mileage, then add in lactate threshold training and intervals. Group rides are also a great way to train.

You've now got some terms to search for, so get to it!

johnny99

There are lots of books on bike training programs. Most (if not all) are heavily based on heart rate monitors or power meters. If you do not have any coach or mentor, you should read a few of these books and create a structured program for yourself.