New Year's Resolution #2: Have a Plan

As many of you know, 2010 marks the 20th year that I have been racing a mountain bike. For a large portion of those years, I raced under the idea that not only was I bulletproof, but I could also get to be a better rider and racer, by simply riding my bike faster, every chance I had. To a certain extent that worked. Then in the 90’s the heart rate monitor came out, and all of a sudden “training plans” became demystified to the masses with the use of heart rate monitors. Or at least we thought so.

At the end of the day, we all want to be better cyclists. Some want better technical or mechanical skills, some want to be faster, some want better fitness, and some want to race faster, and some just want more enjoyment from cycling. No matter what your level and chosen direction, we all want to improve in some way.

I am sure many of you have heard the old definition of insanity: Doing things the same way, and expecting improved results. Whether it is in your approach to life, business, or cycling, improvement only comes through change. Creating change is simple. Making sure that change is goal oriented is the challenge.

To that end, the February DORBA General Membership meeting features Zoe Nance (www.zoefitness.com) to discuss, showcase, and help our membership think about goal setting, planning for and event, the importance of tapering, nutrition and hydration, and off season training issues. While this may appear to cater to a more competitive element, the information can be used for the beginner and entry level rider to the Cat 1 racer.

So come on out, bring a friend, meet someone new, and more importantly become a better cyclist.

I look forward to seeing many of you at an upcoming DORBA meeting,

Rich