As cyclists, we work hard on our bikes. Especially as training hours increase, it’s important to choose yoga postures that give therapeutic benefits without increasing recovery time. A thoughtfully designed yoga and stretching regimen should be responsive to the demands of cycling and promote athletic recovery. Art of Cycling has developed a style of practice that addresses the physical as well as mental needs of athletes. When our bodies are supported in a pose, the nervous system sends signals to…
Words by Lisa Mazzola I used to be one of those people that loathed training indoors. I would sooner ride in a blizzard, and actually did once, rather than get on my trainer. Living and training in New York city adds an extra level of complication to training. The closest place for me to train outside is Central Park. I can be there in 15-20 minutes, but I must traverse the busiest part of Manhattan in order to get there,…
Words by Kristen Phillips This post combines indoor riding with bike handling— something potentially boring with something fun and challenging. Everyone needs better bike handling skills, and winter is the best time to work on them. The choice between trainers and rollers here is easy. Trainer technology has come a long way and modern smart trainers offer lots of great features, but nothing beats good old-fashioned rollers for bike handling skills. Success riding rollers is all about becoming comfortable with…
Words by Kristen Phillips Also shared on Pretty. Damned. Fast. It’s the time of the year when we design our training plans for next season and assess our strengths and weaknesses. Most of us who ride a lot will probably cite stretching and routine body maintenance as areas we can improve, and as a coach who has worked with a lot of cyclists, I'm here to make a case for taking that part of your training (more) seriously. Cycling is…
Art of Cycling gave a lecture this week on "How to Structure a Training Season" at Bicycle Habitat's Soho location, in conjunction with Bicycle Habitat Women's Cycling. Our goal was to help guide beginner to intermediate riders through the process of reviewing their 2016 season, set appropriate goals for the 2017 season, and map out a path for success by understanding how structured training plans are built. For those who have yet to experience it, structured training can be a secret…