I finished my bike ride earlier today, and was very happy with the results.  I have been feeling particularly strong on the bike these past few weeks.

I am not sure what is behind this strength, but I feel really good.  I am sure that the consistency of doing workouts, all through the Holiday Season, is a big factor.  I also think that the lack of work stress, now that I am retired, is also helping a lot.

The fact that it is only January and I am already feeling this strong on the bike, has me excited for what is ahead this year.  I am not trying to get ahead of myself.  I know that I need to continue working hard.  That said, this afternoon, my peak 5 minute power was higher than it was at any time last year.  In fact it was my sixth highest 5 minute result of all time.  Coming in the middle of a big gear workout in January, this is very encouraging.

Power helps a lot when racing on a bike, but handling skills also matter too. I need to ride outside to continue to develop my bike handling ability.  That is not going to happen any time soon here in Pittsburgh. I just hope that the weather breaks early enough, for me to get a few rides outside, ahead of my race at Oceanside in April.

Anyway, time to take a deep breath and stay patient.  Race season is still a long way away…