eugkim

I was at my peak shape last October when the cold set in. I transitioned into the winter by training about 5 days a week on my Fortius trainer, mostly on simulated rides on the Tour of Flanders. Unfortunately, work and family started cutting into my traing to the point where I might only go twice a week.

Yesterday, we flew into Florida as we have a condo outside Tampa. I decided to buy and leave a bike here. I think I got a great deal on an 07 Fuji Team Pro (list 2700 for 1699). Anyway, I got back from my first outside ride in 4 months, and it was an eye-opener. I couldn't believe how much I lost in both power and endurance. In any case, it felt great to be outside again. The new bike is a nice ride as well.

EivlEvo

meh... if you had a good base, you'll rebuild it quickly.

Anytime I can't get on the bike during the winter I just focus on core training. Once you get your core into shape... everything else just falls in line easier.

terrymorse 

Im glad it's not just me suffering. I've barely done any riding this year, being chained to the office for long hour days and 7-day workweeks.

I went on my first long club ride yesterday, about 90 miles. I could barely hang on to the pace line, and taking a pull wasn't even an option. On a climb towards the end of the day, I got passed by 3 riders who seemed to fly by. I gave chase but was only able to reel in one of them. The other two got to the summit and turned around to give me "the look", with these huge grins on their faces. Ouch!

My humiliation was made more painful, because all three of the riders who schooled me are on the high side of 65 years. One of them is in his 70s.

Moral: fitness goes away in a hurry.

EivlEvo

Its always the 65 year olds man... I hate those guys. With there million dollar retirement bikes.

Cyclist01012

It's worse when the 65 year old is on a 20 year old schwinn and schools you.

EivlEvo

Thats why I stopped doing tris. Hahaha