Bits and Pieces

Things have been going along nicely since my last update, nothing ground breaking just steady progress.

I've done another 10 mile Tempo Time Trial and the time was almost exactly the same as before, just a few seconds quicker. But the plus side was that I had much better control of my heart rate and stayed within the 7 beat range much better (although not perfectly). Have also had a couple of quicker rides that have been hard work in the wind (and ice!) but again have been good and starting to build up some much needed confidence.

It's also been (inevitably) time for some new kit. In my defence it has been filling gaps where I felt I needed things in between the summer / winter stuff I already had. So then, the items were:

Giordana Windscreen long sleeve base layer *
This is fantastic. It’s a snug but very stretchy (and so comfortable) base layer than has a windproof front and arms. And its really does the job well. Keeps the wind out and keeps you nice and warm (on a cool day, not a freezing day). Not cheap I will admit but highly recommended.

* No, that is not me in the photo. Just so we are clear.


Pearl Izumi Cyclone gloves
These were hard to choose as I was pretty pedantic about what I wanted. I wanted something windproof (but for days I knew would be dry) that were a close fit and not bulky, so I could open energy bars with them on. I tried these and got them, and they have been fantastic. Completely wind proof, warm but without making your hands sweaty (a big plus). The fit is superb, not only can I open a bar with them on I can also get my keys out and get into the flat while wearing them. Also the gripped fingers, thumb and palm mean your water bottle will be safe in your hands. Highly, highly recommended. And they look much better in the flesh than in that photo!

Still on clothing its come time to replace something (because I killed them, not because they wore out, to be fair). As I am a fussy so and so who will buy any clothing he can find with the name "Pinarello" on it, or because something is the right colour to match everything else, I can think of no bigger compliment than I am replacing my fingerless mitts with another pair of the same fingerless mitts. They are the Specialized BG Gel gloves and they are so comfortable I just love them. The gel pads are in just the right places and absorb a lot of shocks. Not the cheapest you'll find but as I said they only fell apart after 2 years of use because I wore a lining glove under them and they didn't really fit. Sometimes it's great to have a descision that is a real no-brainer.

Onto training - here is something from my coach. I have previously mentioned the mental challenge of going out for an "easy" zone 1/2 ride. My coach's boss has a blog which addresses this specific point and explains why these sessions are absolutely vital. I found it interesting so I thought I'd share:

http://www.trainingbible.com/joesblog/2010/02/easy-means-easy.html

I hope you are enjoying your training and things are going well for you. Personally I need to start hitting the hills in a big way very soon...