long mtb racing at the beginning of next season: stupid idea?
So, I have a tendency to look at every endurance activity, whether running, biking, etc. and say "I can do that" whether or not I should. This has not, historically, made me faster. Of course, this is recreation, and I like these things...but... I would like to get faster.
Punchline: my first race of the season is the Oceanside 70.3 and I'd like to do pretty well.
I also have the opportunity to do a 24 hour mountain bike race in February, 5 weeks before Oceanside. I'd be on a 2-man(person) team so I'd be riding <12 hours over that time. It's basically getting really tired during a big party in the desert.</p>
I know this is not going to HELP my race, but would it hurt? I have learned better than to do long runs before races, but I feel like the bike won't destroy me nearly to that degree.
Thoughts?
Comments
Shannon - YMMV, but back in the mid 00's (aughts?) I did a lot of Xterra racing (and "training") while getting ready for IMs and other triathlons. As long as you don't crash and burn and injure yourself, it ought to be a PERFECT time for a Big Bike Day. Whether the course is long steady climbing, or short intense anaerobic bursts, it ought to help your cycling strength. 5 weeks out is more than enough time for such a day before an HIM. Just make sure to insert some judicious recovery time into the week following the race, to avoid messing up your ride at Camp Pendleton.
Shannon,
Sounds like a blast and you'll do fine. Goferit!
What is this "sleep" thing of which you speak?!
I know nothing about the sleep thing I keep hearing about but the 24 mtn bike race sounds like it would be really cool.