Two Days, Two DIFFERENT Rides

This week has been strange. First I got a night ride in on Monday, something I hadn't done in a while, then it was two trainer sessions (booo!!!), and then Friday and Saturday I hit MMCC. Then to top it off, I went against my previous dietary comments, (inspired by Wifey's 15 pound drop) to give the whole low carb/high protein diet thing one more go and do it hardcore. Good Lord, it actually WORKED! Like FREAKY worked!! I swear to God I dropped like 7+ pounds in a week! A WEEK!

Now, I know I can't keep that up and much of it is water weight, it was still sort of freaky to see it something work so well. I also know I can't keep it up because while the trainer rides went well, the attempt at riding MMCC on Friday SSSSUUUUUCCCKED. It took all I had to do 12 miles. I was cold, tired and pissed so I retreated home. Again I say "Boooo!!!" Last night I upped the carbs and returned to MMCC today and had a MUCH better 20+ mile ride, where I rode at or above my threshold HR for most of the ride. It still hurt though and my body is still very much adjusting to the diet restrictions. Because of this there is NO way I can compete or "train" (in the loosest sense of the word) doing such a diet. BUT if it can get me down to where I need to be to feel comfortable in my skin again and not feel like I am behind the big 40 year old gut 8 Ball I will be stoked.

In looking at my numbers via thedailyplate.com I cannot believe that just a week ago there were days I took in 400+ grams of carbs and I dropped it to around 30 grams. I will be anxious to get back to a more normal diet, that's for sure.

Today's ride at MMCC was much better. It was warmer, I felt better and pushed harder. I ran into another dude out on the trail. I could see him through the trees but it was hard to tell if he was in front or behind me. I knew he was pushing hard so I push the pace. Turns out he was behind me, came up quick on me in some tight singletrack. I said "hi" and got no response. I think he wanted me to move over, but said nothing. Just sat RIGHT on my wheel. Sorry dude, we're not racing and in tight singletrack, I ain't moving, especially if you can't respond to me.

We hit a double track and he calls "on your left!" I move over say "go ahead" and let him pass. Turns out he had ear buds in. I friggin' hate when people ride with ear buds in. 1. Don't you want to hear the amazingness that is the sound of the wood and your bike on the trail?? And 2. It's just sort of douchey. I will also say the if the dude plans to ride that far up my ass in the future (not racing) he better have the goddamn common courtesy to give me a reach-around (thank you Gunnery Sergeant Hartman). Grrrrr...

It was a good ride though in some AMAZING 60+ degree and sunny temps. Gotta ride all I can 'cause by this time next month we should be nugget deep in snow.

BTW, did you see the new gear up on the xxcmag.com site? You should check it out. A new gravel inspired T and a new micro fleece beanie to keep your noggin warm. Back the cause, yo.



Later.