Back on the bike

Today was a bank holiday and my daughter arranged a joint horse riding lesson. It was great fun and I managed the rising trot without falling off the horse. But using my injured leg to control the horse was a different matter. It was lovely to watch my daughter ride around the arena as I could see the benefits of all the hard work she has put in to her technique. Like everything else, there are no short cuts.  I was pleased when I got off the horse as the hamstring was protesting.
So in order to give it a rest I went out with a couple of youngsters for 48km on the bike. I've hardly been on my bike for 2 years so it was tough. My heart rate was too high but I was trying not to hold my pals up too much. At hills they disappeared over the horizon leaving me puffing and panting. I've been here before so I was able to shut the chimp up.  I was giving 12 years to one of them and 30 years to the other. In addition they've been training all winter. These aren't excuses, they are both better and fitter cyclists but you have to put things into perspective otherwise you will beat yourself up.
Athelites peak at different points during the season and their training schedule will depend on the type and length of event they are focused on. It's important that we all remember this and keep focused on your own plan and goals and not be distracted by others. I really enjoy training with others but may need to do more cycling on my own for a while so I can complete the training within the most effective heart rate zone.