Well at this time of the year most of the races are now over and the thought now moves to next year, however this phase is an important part of the year calendar so it needs to be structured like you would with any training block. Try not to fall into the trap of thinking I must keep training or I will loose my fitness as that will not happen with a short break.
- Enjoy some down time
Use the time at the end of your season to take some time off the bike and have that well earned rest. This is not only important physically but mentally too. Have a good couple of weeks doing no structured training and just ride for fun while catching up with friends/family and do all those jobs that you have been putting off.
- Reflect on the season and set next years goals
It is important to write down what went right and what you feel was a limiter on achieving your targets so then put in place plans to achieve your goals for next season.
- Bike fit/review front end position
This is a great time to get your bike fitted so your muscles can adapt to the new position while your training load is lighter. It is also a chance to make changes to the front end of your bike especially TT bikes to become more aero. You can then start to build up to time in that new position.
- Weight management
During this phase and as you start to lightly increase your training again over the winter months then try to loose those few extra kilo’s that you may have which will help your cycling in the coming season. While you are racing and training at a high intensity then it is hard reduce calorie intake but during the transition phase and base training then you will find you don’t need as much food as you may think.
Enjoy the rest and you will come back stronger next season!!
