Training is still going quite well for now. What am I doing different this year, you might ask? In the last few months I have put a strong focus on areas where I have lacked in the past. First off, I've changed my diet significantly.

As I mentioned earlier, I was racing the entire 2006 season 10-20 lbs overweight. When I initially moved up to the expert category in 1998, my racing weight was around 145 (I was 16-17 at the time). Since that time I figure I have added approximately 10 lbs in muscle mass through weight lifting and maturity. I know this because in 2003 I was able to get down to 155, which at the time was about 5% body fat (I had this checked with that caliper test). That year was one of my best racing seasons, as I finished in the top 3 a few times in the MNSCSs (Expert), had a top 20 Chequamegon, a top 10 Norba National and upgraded to Semi-Pro.

During the 2006 season, I didn't really have a focus other than to enjoy biking and possibly racing. I spent a few months in the gym over the winter to get some of the power back in my legs. I also was able to get about 500 miles of base in on the road bike before the first race at Elk River. That was the extent of my preparation. Once the season was in full swing, I just kind of raced into shape aimlessly. I felt relatively powerful on the bike, but my power:weight ratio was lower than it could be. The denominator of the equation was 10% higher than in years past. I really noticed this factor when I competed in races where there was a great deal of climbing.

So far, by managing my diet, maintaining my fitness with cross training (weights, trainer time, some outside riding, running and XC skiing) and getting adequete rest, I've been able to shed a few lbs. At 162, I'm 5-10 lbs lighter than where I was during the race season last year.

The other additon to my training regimine this year is yoga. I go twice a week to an hour long class. That stuff is great for balance, flexibility and lactic acid tolerance. I highly recommend yoga to anyone who has not yet tried it.

What else will help me ride faster this year? I think my new Top Fuel 9.9 will help out. It's 3 lbs lighter than my fuel 98 from last year. Maybe I can each that extra piece of cheesecake after all.........

peace