Old 04-15-16 | 08:27 AM
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Heathpack
Has a magic bike
 
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 12,590
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From: Los Angeles

Bikes: 2018 Scott Spark, 2015 Fuji Norcom Straight, 2014 BMC GF01, 2013 Trek Madone

120 miles per week is not huge volume, however you should absolutely vary your intensity and not ride it all as hard as you can. Rule of thumb for most people is to ride about 80% easy and 20% hard. One week out of four (for someone your age) should be a light week- less volume and mostly mellow- ie a "rest week".

As far as daily things the most important onYs to aid recovery:
1. Post ride recovery drink- consume carbs and protein within 30 min of completing your ride. This drink replaces fluid losses, replenishes glycogen and prevents your body from going into an catabolic (ie protein burning) state. Hugely important. Carb to protein ratio should be 3:1. I weigh 130 pounds and make a drink that is 340 cal, 60 gm carb, and 22 gm protein that I consume post workout, you might need to scale this up if you're larger. Continue to eat small amounts of protein and carb scattered throughout the day, while be mindful of total calories.
2. Get adequate sleep. Don't drink coffee when you get home at night. Start relaxing. Do not neglect this or think you can power through life without sleep. Hugely important.
3. Stretch frequently- calves, hamstrings, quads, back
4. Consider trying to decrease inflammation by consuming foods with anti-inflammatory properties. Tart cherry juice specifically has been shown to decrease muscle soreness post workout. My latest recovery drink which I love the taste of is Cherry Vanilla flavored. I make it from skim milk, whey protein isolate, vanilla syrup and ice cubes made of tart cherry juice. Did I mention this is delicious?
5. Hydrate adequately.
6. Use a foam roller on sore muscles- time better spent doing this than drinking coffee.
7. Stay off your feet when your legs are tired.

Other things that are recommended but impractical for me personally- consume a small amt of protein pre-workout, cold/ice baths post workout, compression garments.

Good luck.
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