By Craig Upton

LANCE HAS LEFT THE BUILDING, BUT ALL IS NOT OVER

–5 PRO TIPS TO KEEP FROM SUFFERING FROM A LATE-SEASON SLUMP–

Lance has left the building, and Tour coverage is only on DVD, but all is not over. ROAD CYCLING IS A L-O-N-G SEASON FOR EVERYONE—EVEN THE PROS. There is plenty of time to get big results this season before going into the off-season training period. Here are 5 suggestions to finish the season on a high note.

1. Reflection
Bike racing is a long season-sport. You probably started your season with off-season training in October, that’s 11 months of training, so be proud and take a breather to reevaluate and reflect on your entire season so far.

2. Goals
Review your original season goals, see what you have accomplished, and possibly. set some new or readjusted goals for the remainder of the year. This is a great time to get your Vo2max tested to see how conditioned you really are. From this you will be able to really fine tune training rides. This helps to get focused and avoid wasting time and miles.

3. Stay Sharp
In general, your fitness level is pretty much set for the rest of the year. The key is to prevent over training. Scientific research shows that volume is the real culprit in overtraining. By decreasing the volume in your training and focusing your workouts on the races that are left in the season, you can remain fresh on the bike—both physically and mentally.

4. Commit to One More
With a couple of months left, you have time for one more build and taper session. Pick one race to aim for specifically rather than meandering along entering races just because you should be. Pick something, and build a program for that and finish the season on a high.

5. Take a Break
Don’t become a slave to the same workouts over and don’t obsess over trying to maintain fitness. Take a break, enjoy some of the summer activities like hiking or swimming. Then make a plan for next season, include that off-season training that everyone needs and forgets about. With the right tools, it’s possible to build in a rest period earlier in the season, avoiding any late season slump. With careful planning you can maintain a high level of conditioning and form throughout the entire season.

@##=#<1,c>@##=#