Start mixing up your training

As the cooler weather arrives, publisher James Yaffa considers the role of other modes of physical training to stay fit and mentally refreshed.

At this time of year, should we reduce our riding loads or even, dare I say, add another form of exercise into the mix? It’s a bit controversial but hear me out.

I’m a strong advocate of mixing things irrespective of what time of year it is; not only is it mentally refreshing, it will make you a better rider. Between your weekly group rides, try changing your routine. I can just see the reaction from your WhatsApp ride group when you post at 6 pm the night before your ride that you are out as you will be attending a reformer Pilates class!

One of the drawbacks of a long summer of riding is the lack of attention you have likely given to your body. Many of us neglect our core strength and conditioning.

During the summer riding season, ongoing injuries can get worse and, in some cases cause long-term damage. Niggles can be sorted in Winter making you an even stronger rider come Spring. The cooler months are your time to get set and strong. Otherwise, you risk the well-known grey zone conundrum where doing the same thing each week means you have plateaued or gone backwards. Sound familiar.

Supplementing your regular rides with strength and stretching exercises is essential to your growth and, more importantly, mentally refreshing.

Another thing that will make you a better cyclist is a bike fit. This is the best money you can spend! Get a bike fit every few years (yes, your body can change!) which will make you a stronger, more confident rider.

Swimming is another exercise that will make you a better rider. Don’t we all dread it when an ex-rower, swimmer or runner joins the peloton and starts working us over? Adding a cardio-heavy discipline like swimming or running will make you bulletproof and the smiling assassin come Spring!

After an intense period of summer riding and training for an event like Peaks Challenge, it’s now time to rethink your mindset… reboot your goals and create a strategy to make you even stronger. The less is more mindset during Winter can be a winner, still riding but working on overall body strength.

Here are my top 5 suggestions:

• Reformer Pilates
• Swimming
• Cross fit/gym
• Personal trainer/coach sessions
• Bike fit