thats where i am – and i’m really proud/happy/excited about it. training is never easy but it seems atm i have all gears running smooth and i am making targets each time as well as adding new efforts into the picture.

the weather has been insane but i haven’t let it really get in the way – although it has taken its toll on the girl. right now she’s in a bit of a state and not rolling very well at all.

for january i only fell short one week – the same week i began full detox which has now been a full month on and like training i am still running strong.

these new extra efforts have been over and above the riding schedule and that is what i think is really going to make the difference from previous years. adding into the picture have been stretching which is returning to what i was doing a few years ago and a new effort, swimming. as much as i am not a swimmer its been an eye opener and actually enjoyable.

it allows me to add an extra 1hr per week into the mix and as cross training it is improving my upper body, core and cardio. it can be completed in any weather and at lunch. i started at victoria park pool but now have purchased a 20 pass for ian thorpe. a couple of other guys from work are into it as well which helped me increase my effort and pace. at first it was only doing about 600m – then 800m now i am getting in a full 1km in 30min or just under. at the end of 30min i am pretty spent but not my legs its all cardio and upper body. along with the stretching i am hoping really hoping in the next few race the results will show.

the usual local rides are still perfect for specifics like strength and AT improvement and just outright punishment rides along with the crits [i'll talk about them shortly] i have a new found enthusiasm. another grind today al-be-it commencing in rain, its good to have the pains back in my legs all day… it means i am on target.