4 weeks off & fitness levels drop dramatically!

on2wheels

Haven't been out for 4 weeks, bad niggle in my back and a heavy cold over the last month. Went out last weekend and boy was it hard! My legs felt like lead, my time and speed was very much lower than it usually is

Anyone else experienced this, any advice for keeping fit whilst under the weather or poorly

I think I'll have to get the turbo out in the garage on these winter nights to make up for not going out in the weekdays, but truth is I hate the turbo

Any alternatives?

Rich Hcp

Yes!

I try to get out when I can at this time of year, although I don't do so many miles, it just about maintains fitness levels.

When the weather is too poor to cycle I'll pop down to the indoor pool and swim for an hour.

After a lay off the first time is hell!

You'll feel better next time on the bike, don't over do it and builld back up again

hammerite

I had a lay off in September due to injury. I found a could keep a good pace up but struggled toward the end and hills that I could usually manage became near impossible!

On top of swimming as Rich suggested you could go for a run. It's easier to get out for a run in bad weather than cycling (you don't feel the wind chill running like you do on a bike) and you can spend a shorter time on a run for the same effort as a long ride.

As for exercising while poorly, depends on how bad you feel. If it's just a head cold you should be able to exercise without risking it getting worse. But as soon as it gets chesty, stop doing anything.

guv001

I have had a 6 month break, I'm putting off my first ride back although I have already started running which although is really painful is a proven method for me when getting back into heavy training. After a few more runs I'll get back on the bike.