I returned to cycling three years ago. It was terrific to go from 10 miles to 100 comfortably. Indeed distance is no problem. I can just keep going. I would rate myself above average in my peer group of touring cyclists for distance and its still improving.
But I'm below average in speed and hill climbing. And if anything I'm getting worse. This is what I need to address. On the flat I feel the problem is pure strength. On the hills it is oxygen. I just can't get enough of it.
I have a hunch that by concentrating on long distance riding and hence giving up on road running and the gym treadmill (there are only so many hours in the week) my aerobic capacity is dropping. Is this reasonable? Is there a cycling answer or is it back to the gym?
Its not a cadence issue - its a triple and I'm wallowing on the granny gear far too soon
But I'm below average in speed and hill climbing. And if anything I'm getting worse. This is what I need to address. On the flat I feel the problem is pure strength. On the hills it is oxygen. I just can't get enough of it.
I have a hunch that by concentrating on long distance riding and hence giving up on road running and the gym treadmill (there are only so many hours in the week) my aerobic capacity is dropping. Is this reasonable? Is there a cycling answer or is it back to the gym?
Its not a cadence issue - its a triple and I'm wallowing on the granny gear far too soon