View Full Version : Training/Fitness?
kitplummer
09/16/03, 8:36 PM
This past weekend I went riding with two (older than me by quite a few years) guys on a really tough trail ride. Although both of them are considerably more experienced riders than I, I feel that I am in better shape. The problem is that about two-thirds through the ride I was dead tired. My arms were jelly and I was having trouble gripping the bike with my legs - ultimately, putting me on the ground a couple of times. More than anything I was just too pumped up through a really tough section which took it all out of me. Near the end of the ride I had gotten my "second wind" and was again riding strong and keeping up. Worse than bonking during the ride, was the rest of the day. I was so tired and achy all day, I couldn't do anything. In fact, at one point when I got up out of a chair my legs cramped from my groin to my calfs, dropping me to the floor. I should say by the next morning I was fine.
So, as I contemplate running my first race at the PMP GP I am curious about any tried and true training techniques. I am currently running approximately 3 times a week for around 30-40 minutes. I also ride my mountain bike once or twice a week if I have time. Should I make the time to lift weights, or do push-ups and situps?
Unfortunately, I only get to ride the motorcycle once or twice a week. I try to get in on the track at least once a week. I am also trying to hit the trails once a week.
Anybody have any good training tips?
bradfox2
09/16/03, 9:21 PM
At the gym they have the machine that you sit and squeeze it closed with your legs and anther one that does the opposite, strengthens the outer leg and inner groin muscle and is the same mucsle that you use to hold the bike. That might help your leg acheness.
mparks22
09/16/03, 11:35 PM
It all helps but seat time will make you a wiser rider. Look for the smooth line and as you go faster you will start to feel the bumps less and less.
Armpump? Lube those cables and watch that death grip. If you concentrate on Smooth speed will come.
Did those other guys have dampners? do you? Were they on there fav trail? Did they rest while you caught up?
I'm no expert;) but i'd be happy share one big thing. STAND UP except to corner or seat bounce
"The trouble with being a good sport is you have to lose to prove it"
Mike Parks Whiplash#22
2002 whiplash 250cc Champion
03 WR450,FMF,Hinson,BRP,Applied,RealRacing,ThePit,Exc ell,IMS,Speedway,Vic's Plumbing,WD40,Wiseco,
00 YZ250, Loaded
00 Trail Boss
Lizrdlipz
09/17/03, 5:01 AM
Sounds like you're on the right track for your training. Training is a personal thing, while some people get enough workout with their daily work routine, others need to visit the gym. Running is a great aerobic exercise and will help your endurance. I used to be a long distance runner but my feet will not allow me to run any longer so I spend more hours in the saddle to make up for that. In regards to your weight training, make sure you're doing the correct lifting exercises. You don't want to bulk up but rather build longer muscles, see your trainer if you visit a gym, they can help you with the proper exercises for your sport.
A steering stabilizer is probably the single most important addition to your machine, if you don't have one then it would be wise to get one. Good Luck...
Steve Feld #31
You race like you train. If you run for 40 minutes, guess about how long you'll be able to race for before you crap out? Go ride at least the distance/time that you will when you compete. Adapt that same time length into your running and bicycle riding time.
The older guys might look "fat" comparitively but stamina doesn't really care how you look, it cares about how you train.
"You don't ride a CR500, you survive it"
quote:Originally posted by ArmPump
The older guys might look "fat" comparitively to you but stamina doesn't really care how you look, it cares about how you train.
That's my new moto:D.
Riding is the best training for riding. Who ever said swimming is the best all around exercise must have never ridden a dirt bike.
David Gronlund #7
Bens Cycle Works, Motoworks Suspension, Goat Eyewear, Cycle Gear, FMF-909, Works Connection, IMS Racing, N-Style Graphics, AFAM, White Brothers, Pops Racing, Cycles West.
Racerfisk
09/17/03, 8:08 AM
El Gato now that the weather is cooling off & less time spent in the pool, does this mean you are changing your workout routine from 12 ounces to [?]
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El Gato
09/17/03, 10:38 AM
quote:Originally posted by Racerfisk
El Gato now that the weather is cooling off & less time spent in the pool, does this mean you are changing your workout routine from 12 ounces to [?]
Absolutely!! My right arm is nice and fit, now it's time to work on the rest. I'm fighting scheduling now. I really need to get my priorities back to normal....eat, sleep, ride, repeat.
From 1997 to when I got hurt in 2000 I was averaging 25-30 races a year. Of course that includes MX which really doesn't count. I did those races just for training. Before I moved into the s**tty I could ride right out of my backyard so I rode at least 3-4 times a week. I had dozens of different loops of different lengths I would do depending on my time restraint. I used to work alternating shifts and after night shift my buddy Rob would wake me up in the afternoon after sleeping all day with his exhaust pipe of his CR500 stuck to my bedroom window WFO. That was my training routine. When I moved here I gained 20 pounds in 6 months.
David Gronlund #7
Bens Cycle Works, Motoworks Suspension, Goat Eyewear, Cycle Gear, FMF-909, Works Connection, IMS Racing, N-Style Graphics, AFAM, White Brothers, Pops Racing, Cycles West.
Funny this topic should come up. I am big proponent of a good workout routine to accomplish a couple of things with regards to riding...
1) Build strength so you can throw your bike around likes it's a toy
2) Build your endurance for those long rides
I ride an XR400. This is just a plain heavy bike and I am not a BIG heavy guy. So with a consistent weight routine, with some cardio (treadmill)-- I found that I became a better rider. Not to say that seat time won't get ya there. The workout definately helps.
After a dislocated shoulder last year, I had to back off the gym for about 10 months. I have been back at it with a solid routine for several months and I am more than ready to tackle that XR again this riding season.
kitplummer
09/18/03, 8:45 AM
How bout eating? I've found that I have a whole lot more energy if I eat something small and healthy about an hour before riding. Unfortunately, I usually pay the price with some stomach pain for a short while.
I've also tried eating a big meal the night before, and then nothing before a ride - but, this wasn't good. I found myself not feeling near as good as if I eat something just before riding.
Thoughts?
Zhvonte
09/18/03, 12:18 PM
i like protein bars..... many many many different kinds on the market now to cater to one needs.....
I have no limitations, only my quad has limitations......
whiplash #374
quote:Originally posted by Zhvonte
i like protein bars..... many many many different kinds on the market now to cater to one needs.....
Yes, protien bars are good. They don't sit well with me sometimes when I eat them on an empty stomach though.
Beware of the "energy" drinks like Red Bull. The reason they give you "wings" is because they're loaded with caffine. Dehydration is not a thing you want to deal with on the trail.
David Gronlund #7
Bens Cycle Works, Motoworks Suspension, Goat Eyewear, Cycle Gear, FMF-909, Works Connection, IMS Racing, N-Style Graphics, AFAM, White Brothers, Pops Racing, Cycles West.
I have to get a large breakfast in on a ride morning, especially if it's a longer ride or a race day. Bacon, pancakes, everything, about 2 hours before ride time.
I used to drink a Monster energy drink before a ride but they dump off quickly and then I'm dragging. As El Gato says, they're no good and dehydration sucks.
"You don't ride a CR500, you survive it"
Agreed in general here, with a few additives.
You exercise riding muscles by riding.
Trail snacks like raisin/nut combos work well (protien/sugar)
They burn hot and slow in your system when ingested together.
Oh, and by the way, old muscles are tough, so don't let them fool ya.
PS. I'm with ya Armpump, the meatlovers breakfast w/pancakes and then CHARGE!!!
"YOUR A DAISY IF YA DO"
XR500R
XR80R
CR125R
X-CR125 now 200 four stroke.
XR 50 (granddaughter)
I like a big chili size before and / or after a long ride. Keeps ya on your toes ;)
quote:Originally posted by ed
I like a big chili size before and / or after a long ride. Keeps ya on your toes ;)
Ok Ed...I'll make sure that I'm not riding behind you next time! ooofa! [:p]
gmoney
Greg Burns
Vice President-Riding Arizona.com