We know how tough it is to stay in top shape when the days are short, the roads are slushy, and the food and drink
are abundant, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to improve your race performance (permanently) during the holiday season. Here are a few tips that could make a huge difference in your 2020 results:
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Get "slippery"! A small difference in your
rider position can make a big difference in your speed out on the road. Around 80% of a cyclist’s power goes into pushing wind out of the way on a flat road, so the importance of being aerodynamic can’t be overstated. A simple change in position that reduces
your wind drag could make a bigger difference in your speed than becoming 10% stronger. The key is to find a position that is still comfortable, and doesn’t cut into your power output too much. Working on core strength and flexibility, as well as some practice
riding in the new position, can help make a more aggressive posture much more comfortable and sustainable. To do a simple assessment of your position have somebody take a picture of you riding on a trainer, and compare yourself to video of a professional cyclists.
Use a powermeter to ensure you can maintain the same power with a new position, and also to see if the new position is making you faster. Don’t neglect to practice riding on the drops as well, just changing your hand position from the brake hoods to the drops
can be worth 1-2 mph, without so much as turning a wrench or spending a penny.
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Learn the game!
You can do this without even putting down the eggnog. A great read is Thomas Prehn’s 2004 book, “Racing Tactics for Cyclists”. This book will give you the
tools to improve your game, and explains how to play your cards just right to get the best performance from your fitness level. Rehearse these tactics mentally so that you can put them to practice out on the road. Reading a race well and positioning yourself
correctly in the pack can make a huge difference in your race performance. This will help you to finish much farther up in the pack in most any race regardless of your training status.
