RPM - Double shot

Before class today the T lady suggested I should start doing double RPM classes, especially while I am not working.  I had been thinking about this anyway.  Partly because it maximises my time at the gym and the train and gym fare, and partly because I need the intensity and interval training.  It's something I need to work on when I am on the road:building in segments where I aim for speed, and not just the duration.  Riding a bike is a bit like walking for me.  I can walk for "miles" like a snail, but I need the intensity to get results.  The best way to get that for me is through a structured class where there is an incentive to keep on pace - the correct word actually, is "tempo". So, that was good timing re the suggestion.  That's the benefit of having someone give you the "nudge". 

I said I would probably start Tuesday, but then T said she was taking the 12.30 class, and as I had fulfilled my coffee commitments for the day, decided I may as well start the double session thing today.  It was good.  Sort of got the feeling that I got when I first start doing RPM - there is that stretch factor.  Apart from the fact I need it to keep the weight loss momentum, I also need it re keeping the variety factor and mixing it up re the general training.

Two RPM sessions = 90 minutes maximum effort.  So, 30 minutes extra than the 60 minute class I do in the Hutt on some occasions.  That 90 minutes is a better use of effort than the cruising for 2-3 hours.
Although I still need the long road rides to build up the overall endurance.

T's having a RPM sabbatical for the next 6 weeks.  I'll miss her, as in my RPM world she is the head RPM coach, even though I guess that title should be reserved for the Godfather of RPM.  But that's the thing about a coach influence whether it be in sport or re work.  They can walk (or ride) with you part of the distance and share aspects of the journey, but in the end it has to be your legs that get you over the line.

After class I did a few core exercises.  This lady, who I didn't know (but when I first saw her from a distance I at first thought she was Flojo) tactfully and very helpfully showed me how to correct my "bolt hold" posture.  It was really good that she did correct me, because I wasn't doing it right. It definitely helps to start builidng on some core work, as that helps with building up the overall resistance.  I know this becasue I have been reading the cycling magazines at the library.  Although I also know it because I can feel it making a difference when I ride and in my posture.