Specific training vs Targeted

snickwell

So I *think* I've begun to ride frequently enough that I can ask this question, but....

Is it better for someone who isn't racing and who is relatively new to the sport to focus on just riding his/her bike and getting miles under the belt, or should I be starting to target specific goals, such as hill climbs, working at threshold, etc.?

My main goal is to get a full season of riding under my belt, improving as much as I can, before attempting to go racing next year. I currently manage to average about 17mph for a 45 mile route and am very comfortable on the flats. However, as with many beginners, I think I could improve my climbing...

Would it be more beneficial to target specific hills and climbs to improve, or should I just keep riding harder and harder on a variety of terrains.

markos1963

If you want to go racing then go racing and see how you fare. If you have trouble hanging on to the group or lack speed out of the corners or on hills then you know what you need to work on and can then target your training.
Don't waste a season just bimbling around like I did give it a go.
Last season I did a couple of Go Race crit series and plenty of TT's as well as joining the faster group rides with my club. The difference in my riding during and after that was massive, just regretted not doing it sooner.
This season I have been able to target my training more based on last years experience.