June 01, 2005

Train in the Rain

Days of non-stop rain can put a damper on one's training plans. So how do I deal with it when I have to go out and ride? While it is not my favorite way to train, it's actually not far from it.

I start with a layer of some warming liniment like Tiger Balm (liquid) on my legs followed by a layer of Vaseline. I chose arm warmers today, not the thermal ones, just regular spandex. A cap under my helmet. Booties or shoe covers. Clear or yellow lenses in the sunglasses. Rain cape - I prefer to cut off the long sleeves because it helps with ventilation. For the bike I ride my training wheels with slightly less pressure in the tires. The Polar heart rate monitor is wrapped in Saran Wrap.

That's it. Let's go splash in some puddles!

Posted by dancoy at June 1, 2005 01:44 PM
Comments

You look so cute, honey.

Posted by: Bev at June 1, 2005 02:22 PM

Dan,
You remind me of the riders I saw in the mountains of Colorado. There was even one fellow riding across the pass at 12,000 feet in a snow and rainstorm.
Much of Colorado has bicycle lanes on every street and road including the interstate highways. We saw many riders out especialy a group that appeared to be pros in training. Can you imagine a ride with several climbs in excess of 5000 feet beginning at 7000 feet elevation?
Dad

Posted by: ABC at June 1, 2005 03:24 PM

Colorado is cycling HQ for sure. That's also where the Olympic Training Center is located. Altitude, or to be more precise, decreased atmospheric (or barometric) pressure, is the reason why.

Several weeks at altitude results in increased red cell mass. The banned substance, erythropoietin (EPO) does exactly the same thing. Lance Armstrong sleeps in a high altitude chamber to increase his hematocrit levels. Live high, train low creates the best athletic performances.

Riding at 12,000 feet in snow and rain doesn't do much for your physiological strength, but it certainly shows great psychological strength.

Posted by: Dan at June 1, 2005 11:06 PM

I don't usually check internet stuff on the weekends but this morning I was so looking forward to your blog and it hasn't been updated. So sad.... Love B

Posted by: Bev at June 6, 2005 04:20 PM