Thursday Thoughts: Chasing Miles Revisited

(With apolgies and a tip of the Campagnolo Cycling Cap to Dave.)

We posted a bit of a rant about the folly of simply “chasing miles” back on 17 December.  Dave posted a thoughtful and interesting comment.  That comment, and the questions it raises, deserve an answer and a bit of clarification.

Dave, it sounds like you ride for pleasure, fun, and fitness, in about that order.  Good for you!  You keep track of your mileage, and that’s just fine.  It is an indicator of what you are doing, and probably helps you to “keep on track.”  You mention that you do some cyclocross racing, but in a “just for fun” mode.  Again, good for you!

The point we were trying to raise and make, is a caution against simply racking up miles for the sake of racking up miles.  Further, that practice can lead to the false impression that the large total of mileage is somehow, in and of itself, a tool to lead to greater fitness.

We can see nothing wrong with the way Dave rides.  And we don’t pretend to be so all-knowing as to be able to dictate how folks should ride their bikes.  The fact that Dave is out there, on two wheels, and having a good time, seems to us a pretty good way to behave on a bike.

And to answer your final question, Dave, we would suggest that you don’t set mileage goals, but rather lay out a regular schedule of rides per week, and of time per ride.  From a fitness standpoint, it can not be said often enough.  “Your heart does not know what a mile is.  Fitness depends on duration and quality of effort.”  Miles, will be a byproduct of riding for fitness, for fun and recreation, and/or for utility.

Just a thought.

Thanks, and keep on reading and commenting, please.