Originally Posted by
MrCrassic
Well, from my experience, it really depends on how out-of-shape you really are as opposed to how out-of-shape you think you are.
I think the best way to really test this other than exposing yourself to the fire early is to ride with a fast group and see how you measure with them.
As far as training is concerned, having a good plan of fierce riding days/mile gathering days/resting days should restore your power in a fair amount of time. Not sure if you can get to your original power within two weeks, but if you train hard, you should be able to perform fine.
Well, if it helps any, the "experiment" of earlier this weekend consisted of me trying to keep near the front of a crit field, only to blow up after a few laps. I think I failed to recognize my red zone in addition to just not being fit on the bike. I did feel great handling though, which surprised me. I had to hold back in the corners to stay behind the leaders, then once it straightened out I struggled more. After a few laps hanging on, I couldn't kick it anymore and dropped to the rear. Of a small, slow field. Really small and really slow.
I am not "out of shape" in that I am overweight (in fact, I think I weigh less than last fall), I think I just need to get some miles in. Should be fun since the weather says four days of rain.