Bumping and standing. Week three brought two concepts that sent me into a cold sweat. No one said this would be a contact sport. Apparently that is true, but … you just need to be prepared for the strong likelihood that someone may, at some point, nudge you. Better to experience that in a non-race environment first. Surprisingly, there were no wipeouts. No near wipeouts, even. To prevent fodder for lifelong harassment, Chris and I partnered with other people for the bumping drill. Good call.
Standing while sprinting for an entire lap proved impossible. Looks like some quad strengthening is in order. (The next weekend I forced myself to charge up hill after hill while standing up out of my saddle.)
I have to say that the track has vastly improved my skills on the road, too. I’m more in tune with my form and the efficiency of my pedal strokes. My group riding skills are better. I keep my line and remember to check my shoulder before passing or making sudden movements. I feel more confident and comfortable on my bike. I take corners tighter, draft closer, charge up hills with more gusto and panic a lot less under sticky circumstances. And, the improved speed never hurt.
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