I am beginning to think that a 6 month winter layoff works wonders. Only got in a few 20 milers this winter then the day before a ride was due- decided to do it with a bunch of mates. Only 65 miles but in the last couple of months they have got im more rides- more miles and more hills than I have all winter. Should not have worried. The ride was a doddle- legs and body and back felt better next day than they have after a weekends gardening- and even the "Natural" tiredness went after a shower.

Shall have to get them on my training regime as the rest of the group struggled.