The Faster Master Part 1 - Goals

So... Chris Charmichael calls us the "defiant minority"... those master's athletes who continue to train and perform at a high level despite our age and failing bodies.... i think it's a compliment. So as much as i don't want to make this into ammunition for my competitors, i also wanted to share some of the things that i have created in my life that allow me to continue training, racing and performing at a level that satisfies me. Over the next little while i will create posts that focus on different aspects of my life and training... in no particular order...with hopes of shedding some light on the challenges faced by other master's athletes.... and how to continue on a path of success. Goals: before the start of each year... usually when i'm riding... i take some time to think about what it REALISTICALLY want to achieve in the upcoming season. For me, it's to be competetive at this year's MTB Nationals and continue my success in Ontario. I also have some goals for travelling into the US for some races and new competition. Your goals may not be this focused or ambitious.... but you should have some. Whether you are using cycling for fitness, a change of pace or intense competition, you need to take a serious look at what your goals are and how that will affect the rest of your life. I spend between 12 and 18hrs per week on the bike in the summer... and my teaching profession allows me to do that. During the winter months, i spend 1.5-2hr each nite in the basement on the trainer, working through my work outs and developing strength..... but remember that i have serious goals for myself this year. So because of these requirements, there are sacrafices that are made - relaxing time with my wife in the evenings, falling asleep early, going out for dinner with friends and the like. Whatever your goals are, you need to be willing to make the appropriate sacrafices, or adjust your goals. My former coach Steve Neal (who's a pretty smart guy) would always allow me to adjust my workouts because "Life got in the way".... I'm not able to spend 3 months in Arizona, so i do the best with what i have.... and i also have to work at keeping my marriage!!! Life is different for everyone, and we all face different challenges. Taking a look at your own life and challenges will help you decide how far you can push things, and will keep you satisfied with your accomplishments.