David Auker
Jason,
Pardon me not emailing you "direct," but I think this could be of
interest as a general discussion (we'll see!).
I love running's "bang for the buck" time-wise and equipment-wise. When
the weather is bitter, getting the "machine ready" (shoes, clothing)
takes but a few minutes! And, the actual time exercising seems to be
about 1/3 of the investment for a good ride. (I think it's funny hearing
runners complain about bad weather...running is so easy to do in the
cold and wet, compared to cycling! I mean, one part is when you get
home, you might take your shoes off before walking on your nice floors,
but coming in from a ride...whoa! there's some major "repair" to do,
getting all the danged clothes off (not to mention the poor wet bike).
But, I also love riding in bad weather...spice is the variety of life,
and if you ever expect to race in inclement weather, you'd better be
familiar with what it takes.)
I don't think running itself will make a champion roadie, as there is no
substitution for miles on the bike...even fixed-gear won't cut it if
that is the exclusive mode. But, variety is probably a good thing, both
physically and mentally...and the season is long enough to spend some
harsh winter days cross-training.
There is also the issue of health-science telling us that the impact of
running on the bones is stimulating for calcium-retention.
One thing I've found about running is the importance of breaking into it
very gradually (from a cycling-only background). The fitness of cycling
begs to be transferred into some immediate big run, but the body needs
time to adjust. In my years of racing, when I'd turn to running in the
off-season, I figured out this routine: at first, I'd go out and jog 5
minutes, then wait a couple of days until the "new" aches vanished. Then
another 5 minute session, with the same waiting period. After you find
there is no hurt the next day, you are ready to take on a lot more, with
the chance of injury greatly diminished.
David
Jason Ford wrote:
> I have a question. This winter I have done some running as cross
> training, primarily to maintain my weight during the holiday season
> and those dark days of winter. I wonder if any one has information on
> how running affects a cyclists performance if they continue to run
> threw out the racing season? I dont know if it helps or hinders cycling.
>
> any one with expiernce in this area? thanks.
>
> email me direct at bikeraceguy@hotmail.com
>