I am extremely competitive and need to set some cycling goals for myself. I want to continue to push myself, and I think cyclocross is something I want to try, and I know it will be a huge challenge. What kind of things should I do to get myself ready for my very first race? Is this something I should even be contemplating?
Number 1: Practice skills. Mounts and dismounts are everything, and races are won and lost in transitions.
Number 2: Short-recovery intervals with high-HR time trials. You won't get much opportunity to recover, so you have to train your body to recover where it can. A typical routine of mine is twelve two minute intervals at 90-95% maxHR, each followed by 45 seconds recovery, with two 10 km time trials @ 85% maxHR mixed in... often, but not always, like this: [6 intervals, time trial, 6 intervals, time trial].
Number 3: Run. There's a lot of running in this sport.
when walking, just walk. when sitting, just sit. when riding, just ride. above all, don't wobble.
The Irregular Cycling Club of Montreal
Cycling irregularly since 2002
Well like any other sport, people will tell you what is absolutely the best/ most important thing for training.
Here are a couple links for you to research so you can decide for yourself:
Napa Valley CX-beginners tips
Cyclocrossworld.com-pics and pro racing
cyclingnews.com-intro to cross
If you don't have a cross bike, you can go try with your mountain bike. Best way to learn is to watch so checking out some races in your area might be a good idea.
Thanks for the info.
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