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Originally Posted by
terrymorse
That rapid improvement was almost certainly due to a rapid "bounce back" in blood and stroke volume.
I've also noticed a similar quick "bounce back" on the second ride after an extended rest. Power goes up, perceived exertion goes down.
Last month, I had a reaction to a vaccine that knocked me down for a couple weeks. I ended up taking 11 days of rest. The first day back on the bike felt terrible. The next day was better, and each following day was better. "Newbie" gains? From my first ride back to yesterday, my Efficiency Factor (av. power/av. heart rate) increased by 37% in 7 days.
Conclusion: Taking several days off from training isn't as devastating as it seems while you're doing it.
I have heard that rest and recovery is one of those things that we Olds need to take more seriously, and yet are less likely to do. I myself took the last two days off after my knee started bothering me and I've been climbing the walls a bit. Curious to see what tomorrow's ride is like.
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