I did some mountains for the first time this summer (Cat 4 and 3 according to MMR) and noticed I could keep up with my riding partner for a while but eventually my ability to push a gear big enough to keep up with him resulted in significant HR elevation and lots of lactic acid and I would drop off his wheel. I deduced I did not have the same strength or endurance as him.
I've been riding for the last few years using the Lance Armstrong model of high cadence (88-95rpm) and high HR (I seem to be able to sustain 88% max HR for 60+mins) and while that has definitely helped my cardio it has done little for my strength. So I started riding slower cadence (60-70) and harder gearing. I think there is improvement in speed and endurance but I wonder if this approach is the best way to accomplish my goal of developing endurance/strength so I can ride faster.
As an aside, I would prefer on bike training tips rather than going to a gym since I get positively bored out of my mind in a gym and I am unable to sustain any kind of routine at this point.
Thanks
DNAtsol
I've been riding for the last few years using the Lance Armstrong model of high cadence (88-95rpm) and high HR (I seem to be able to sustain 88% max HR for 60+mins) and while that has definitely helped my cardio it has done little for my strength. So I started riding slower cadence (60-70) and harder gearing. I think there is improvement in speed and endurance but I wonder if this approach is the best way to accomplish my goal of developing endurance/strength so I can ride faster.
As an aside, I would prefer on bike training tips rather than going to a gym since I get positively bored out of my mind in a gym and I am unable to sustain any kind of routine at this point.
Thanks
DNAtsol