The Whys Behind the Zwift Academy

Originally published on Unscripted. Introduction by Jen Agan. Photo by Velo Images.

Since its inception, the Zwift Academy has developed a way to foster and engage a community that truly transcends borders. The bicycle is a common bond and has an uncanny way of connecting us – albeit whether virtually or out on the road.

Zwift supporter and advocate Nicola Cranmer believes the Zwift Academy is more than an online training program. “The Zwift Academy program opens up the opportunity for global participation, potential, and aspiration. It’s not always easy for athletes to connect with the limited number of teams out there and this offers a new pathway to becoming a professional cyclist. The virtual program also exposes participants to the benefits of Zwift racing and community riding. We have seen marked improvements in athlete IRL performances and athlete communication through Zwift participation.” Says, Nicola.

Cranmer is well known in the cycling industry and is the founder and GM of the Olympic Development TWENTY20 Women’s Pro Cycling & eSports Team. TWENTY20 emerged as the top UCI team in the inaugural Zwift Kiss Super League series lin 2019. As a former athlete herself, Nicola understands the disciplines of training and racing.

So, when Jasmin came to me with her article on ZWIFT, it was an immediate YES.

My life has never been traditional. As a busy mother and professional who happens to enjoy riding – finding the right healthy balance can be tiring at times. There have been years when my goals have fluctuated from what I call a rigorous calendar – to – I’ll see you on the next group ride – if I can make it.

So what keeps me going? Community.

Community – looks different for everyone and once you find your pack it propels you forward when you might not have done so solo. Let’s face it – when we connect to a community that inspires us – they are our secret weapon to becoming stronger.

Whether it is your go-to or not – ZWIFT has worked for me and Jasmin Welter’s insight taps into an ever-growing community within Zwift, and the Academy.

Jasmin Welter For Unscripted
When it comes to working out, we often follow similar goals: Sometimes we want to be faster and more fit; sometimes we want to find friends and socialize. But what is it that motivates us to push beyond our physical and mental limits? Speaking with competitors in this year’s CANYON//SRAM Racing | Zwift Academy lifts the veil on the drivers beyond the challenge.

While indoor training on the bike has long faced the cliche of long, lonely hours in the basement, it now has become a huge social endeavor thanks to the gamification of training through Zwift.

The Zwift Academy is a rigorous training program challenging its participants to an 8-week, jam-packed schedule filled with a variety of workouts, races and group rides. The goal of the program is to find pro racing team’s next star cyclist – and while surely some of the almost 2,000 “graduates” this year were competing for that coveted spot, I wondered: If there are close to 9,000 women participating in the Academy, what other factors made them commit to the program – to the sweat and suffering of the workouts? The gritty, hard, fast races?

When talking to participants, one thing became clear quickly: Not all of us are looking for the pro contract. But we all seek to improve, to challenge and surprise ourselves, to find something new in our legs and our minds.

Here are the top 5 reasons for participants: 

1) Social Bonds 

The overarching reason for mothers, nurses, and time-pressed professionals alike was that the academy forged a social community of women supporting and empowering one another. Many riders of 2019 are repeat-graduates, banking on the friendship and growth built throughout the previous editions. In addition to the in-game chat function, the academy is accompanied by a large and active Facebook group that answers questions ranging from training to nutrition and celebrates successes and accomplishments within and beyond the Zwift Academy. Seeing and sharing in on the expertise and perspectives of other women from any experience levels is truly engaging and inspiring, and lasts well beyond the 8 weeks of the academy itself.

2) Safety 

Safety is likely among the top concerns in any survey about women and bikes – and similarly, it was among the reasons cited most frequently that excited women about the Zwift Academy. For all three, commuting, training and racing, safety counts as one of the biggest concerns for women when making decisions as to ride in traffic, in remote locations, or at early or late hours in the day. Indoor training is the epitome of efficiency when it comes to nailing that interval or pushing yourself to the limits while allowing you to remain in the safety and predictability of your home. Of course, this aspect applies to all indoor training and not the Zwift Academy alone.

3) Accessibility

For most female riders, even the ones that have the accessibility of living close within a large cycling scene, know the phenomenon: Being the only woman on a ride. While there’s nothing inherently tragic about this, being among women can be helpful, and the lack thereof is a big obstacle to getting started or remaining in the sport. Representation matters as in the case with Ella Harris the 2018 winner of the Academy. “I hope that the Academy experience will entice more to give outdoor riding a proper go also. This can often be a daunting step as many areas don’t have specific women cycling groups or grades for both riding and racing so understandably many get put off by the intimidating nature of having to ride mostly with males. The Zwift Academy can provide that confidence and perhaps fitness needed to give this a try.” Says Ella.

4) Accountability 

Have you ever wanted to purchase training plans or commit to group workouts for the accountability they allow but backed out because of the heavy price tag? Have you ever wanted help to stay or get back into a routine but failed because it can appear to be so damn hard? Do your professional or family schedules not allow you to take advantage of existing programs in real life? For many, the Zwift Academy, while short, helps with accountability and incentive. For most athletes, whether they stopped training due to injury or career and or family responsibilities – nonetheless getting (back) into a routine is the hardest part for most getting back into sports. The Zwift Academy provides an opportunity and platform alongside fellow women across time zones to get back into a routine and stay motivated.

5) Fitness and Fierce Competition

While most Zwifters truly value the friendship and camaraderie the Academy brings, it is designed to be a true test of your fitness, power, and strength. The workouts are designed by pros and are analyzed under the scrutinous eyes of pro coaches and racers. The Academy will demand each competitor to give it their all and by doing so accomplishing the workouts is no small feat – doing well, consistently, and showing up in the races and group rides, showing tactical, mental and physical smarts is a true accomplishment, whether you finish with a PR or at the end of the pack.

At the end of it all, the program is fierce competition for a slot on a pro racing team. Think about it – when have you ever had a chance to make it, circumventing the traditional means and ways to become a pro? It’s like taking a stab at a -hard-earned- wildcard, an opportunity that is unrivaled in pro cycling.

In addition to the benefits the participants see, Zwift and CANYON//SRAM are reaping the fruit of their audacious initiative: “Launching Zwift Academy back in 2016 was pretty revolutionary. Not only did Zwift Academy bring an entirely new form of talent ID to the professional peloton, but it was a program solely aimed at women. This year, CANYON//SRAM will have three Zwift Academy winners in their team showing the success of the Academy as a method for talent spotting. Zwift Academy, however, goes far beyond professional cycling contracts – it’s a fantastic engagement tool for our community as well.

“In 2019, Zwift Academy had an increase of 80% the number of participants from 2018,” states the Zwift team. After review by the coaches, Zwift chose three finalists to a training camp with the CANYON//SRAM crew in Spain, where 22-year old Australian Jess Pratt took home the coveted win and pro contract.

While an exciting time lies ahead for the young racer, I’m curious about all of us who train without our eyes on the pro ranks: Have you participated in the academy? If so, what is your experience? What are your thoughts on the program and its effects on women on bikes?

The Road to Equality

[originally appeared on Unscripted]

Most cycling enthusiasts have heard of Marianne Vos and Kathryn Bertine. And many even know that these racers work as hard for women’s racing and equality on the bike as off. Their efforts for “La Course”, a women’s pro road race just prior to the final stage of the Tour de France, achieved historic steps towards parity and visibility at the Champs-Elysees in 2014. Bertine’s Homestretch Foundation has become a game-changer for female elite athletes by assisting racers with housing, training, and racing in Arizona. Bertine is currently an Ambassador for Equality for Trek Segafredo, and is making the women peloton’s voice heard through education, documentaries, and books.

If you’re from the Midwest, you are lucky to have a local shero to look up to. Daphne Karagianis has not only been a fierce and feared competitor in races across the US, she has also been a driving force among the female cyclists in the Chicagoland area for years.

Outside of training hard for her personal racing goals – (mind you, she recently crushed the 2019 UCI race at the Tour of Zhoushan Island in China with Team Illuminate) – Daphne has made a tremendous contribution to many women through founding the non-profit organization Chicago Women’s Elite Cycling (CWEC) in 2014.

“I started Chicago Women’s Elite Cycling because I believe women and girls belong in sport, and I saw a need in our community,” says Karagianis. Knowing the amount of support and community it takes to be a successful female racer, Karagianis launched CWEC to provide talented cyclists with a composite elite team and pro-level care and coaching for select races. For the past years, CWEC has sent teams to the pro races at well-known series like North Star Grand Prix, Intelligentsia Cup, Gateway Cup and Crit Nationals.

In 2019, the organization put a focus on developing a broader pipeline of elite-rank racers by offering a development camp to Cat 2 and 3 racers in preparation for the La Crosse Omnium. With support from former pro racers Lauren Hall and Alison Powers, as well as soigneur extraordinaire Annie Byrne, co-owner of BFF Bikes, 11 racers from Chicago had the chance to sprint, suffer and smile through a week of training and racing under their experienced watch.

Developing the pipeline by equipping women with knowledge and skills that they can each take back to their teams is not only smart, it is effective to grow the local scene even more.

“I believe that supporting female athletes today, giving them the same opportunities as their male counterparts, and starting at the grassroots level, will help level the playing field for future generations. I want to be part to that change, and help it along in every way possible,” says Karagianis.

The combined efforts of experienced leaders like Daphne, who truly want to raise the road, and of hungry talent, who need an empowering environment to grow, make a true difference – not only today, but hopefully for generations of aspiring female racers who will toe the line in the future.

Alongside the CWEC’s core team, the organization relies on support from cycling enthusiasts, the bike industry, and the community alike.

Find out how to support CWEC:

Chicago Women’s Elite Cycling

www.chicagowomenselite.com

Instagram: @chiwomenselite

Twitter: @chiwomenselite

www.facebook.com/chiwomenselite

Daphne with the CWEC Development Camp participants in La Crosse, WI

Zwift Academy: Of Sweat and Sisterhood

What is your favorite thing about indoor training? If you asked me last summer, I would have stared at you rather blankly. It was August and the sun was shining bright – and yet, I was sitting in my living room, sweating profusely on my trainer. Why, you might wonder (and rightfully so)? Because the Zwift Academy was on!

In its third year, Zwift brought back its 16-day workout series that engaged 4000+ women in suffering through virtual intervals, group rides and races together. In an elaborate process, over 1.000 graduates fought for a coveted spot in the semi-finals, out of which 3 competitors were chosen for the finals. And at the end of the Academy, the winner graduates to a IRL pro contract with the CANYON//SRAM Racing team (the 2018 winner was just announced).

So, why do the Zwift Academy, especially if you don’t have aspirations for a life in professional cycling?

My three top reasons to participate were

1) to challenge myself in a succession of professionally designed, structured workouts

2) to be held accountable in my training

3) and to become part of a digital community of female athletes  from 149 countries

 

Zwift is the culmination of gamified training. As per the mission statementZwift “uses the fun of gaming and the power of communities to inspire and encourage everybody to turn their fitness goals into achievements.” And I, typically more of an indoor training critic, could not agree more. Gamification, in form of about 26,000 in-game items awarded during the academy, does add micro-goals and adds motivation to go that extra mile in training, in a competitive yet fun way.

 

 

While Zwift offers the above benefits year round, participating in the Zwift Academy instilled a unique sense of excitement in me. Knowing you are on a training schedule with actual deadlines (just like at  work!) motivated me to show up, I could not skip the workouts that I typically seek to avoid, and it was strangely exciting to see the digital progress bar fill up. Some workouts also provided interesting feedback about which intensities pros would typically train at during those efforts, which was a great perspective on the amount of dedication and commitment it takes to be a professional cyclist. An added perk, the group rides and races took place on the course of the 2018 UCI Road World Championships in Innsbruck-Tirol (Austria). Seeing the races go down in real life on a course that I had just conquered digitally was a new, fun way to relate to pro cycling.

After graduating for the academy, I got the chance to talk to the previous two winners, Leah Thorvilson and Tanja Erath. Both of them raced alongside cycling stars like Pauline Ferrand-Prevot and Alexis Ryan for CANYON//SRAM Racingduring the season. Upon asking them about their favorite aspect of Zwift training, both agreed that it allows to develop a better understanding of power and heart rate zones as well as pedal efficiency since you constantly see your data on the screen. An added benefit is that you can concentrate 100% on the effort at hand without concern for terrain, weather, traffic or other elements that affect your training outdoors.

But I think what surprised me most about the academy was the community it created among cyclists. While Chicago is lucky enough to have a wonderful women’s cycling community, it is rather rare for female cyclists to have the opportunity for women-only rides and women-only communities. The non-intimidating atmosphere allowed for real talk on online forum, during social rides, and opened up new perspectives, training tips, gear recommendations, new recipes, you name it. As Leah Thorvilson, the winner of the first Zwift Academy who became a pro straight from a running background, puts it: “The sense of community in the women’s academy is incredibly special and powerful. It’s a support system. It’s a sisterhood.”

I’m happy for the training progress I made from committing to the Zwift Academy, and I’ve learned quite a bit from graduating the program – about my strengths and weaknesses as a cyclist. Zwift Academy offered participants free premium access to Today’s Plan training tool, which allowed to track all kinds of data and spat out your individual cycling profile (see how my performance index changed throughout the academy in the pictures below!).

 

Throughout the Zwift Academy, I’ve pushed my  limits, and I’ve found myself a part of a kind and encouraging community. Now, I’d love to chat more about indoor training. Did you know you can still find all Zwift Academy workouts on Zwift? Have you done the Zwift Academy yourself (there is a version for both men and women)? How does your plan for the winter look like? Do you have questions for the winners of the pro contracts? What do you miss most in your indoor sessions?

Coming up: There is no off-season

As the temperatures are dropping, motivation is falling and the holiday dinners are tempting, indoor training is a great way to maintain and improve fitness. Read in the upcoming article about the essentials for structured indoor training throughout the winter.

Originally appeared on the Chainlink.

What’s good: Camaraderie hors catégorie

 

Today, I want to write about good news. About good things happening. About good people, and about good companies. Unlike most mornings, when seeing the news makes me cringe and shudder, today I feel hopeful, I feel optimistic, I feel happy.

Why is that, you ask? Because I feel like I’m part of a caring community. As our international world order is seemingly falling apart and on a larger social scale, divisions seem to grow and hostility to increase, I was lucky to be reminded that, in fact, there is good reason not to despair. Now, what does it take? It takes honesty, commitment, compassion, and understanding. It takes caring about each other, beyond what’s directly affecting ourselves. It takes humanity.

In light of recent developments at BFF Bikes, I was lucky enough to witness an entire community, actually, an entire industry, step up and provide support for someone and their vision. Someone who took risks to make a difference. Someone who chased their dream. Someone who gave so much more than she probably realized. With BFF Bikes, Annie Byrne created much more than a bike shop. She created a safe space for all, a community thriving on health and happiness, a fellowship of BFFs on and off the bike, a welcoming group including fierce racers, casual commuters, and those that were the latter and became the former.

I can say this with utmost conviction because I myself have been that person. I bought my first road bike ever at BFF Bikes, and I never imagined how it would impact my life. have profited tremendously from the community Annie has brought to life, personally and physically. And I am eternally grateful for that experience, and the friendship, camaraderie, and type 2 fun it entailed.

In dire times, it is beautiful to realize that indeed, not all is lost. On many levels, it was a much needed reminder that community exists, and that community matters.

I would like to thank every individual that answered my call for donations for Annie’s birthday / BFF Bikes fundraiser with sincere interest, kind words, proactive support and incredible donations. It means more than you know for all of us.

Thank you to

ABUS

Athlinks / Dirty Kanza

Barry Roubaix

Chicago Sports Massage

Chrome Bags

ClifBar / Luna Bar

Divvy

Edge Athlete Lounge

Enduro Bites

GayleForce™ Healing Massage and Bodywork

Gladys Bikes

Liv Cycling / Giant Bikes

Machines for Freedom

MorningBird Studio

Patagonia

Po Campo

Rapha

RoadID

SciCon

Skratch 

Sram

Stages

The Map Room

The Sufferfest

Tifosi

Trainerroad

Zwift

Drifting Out Of The City

[This article originally appeared on CyclingTips.com, photography by Brian Vernor]

As the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago boasts an abundance of cultural highlights, architectural gems, and exquisite coffee and cuisine. All that comes paired with a seemingly endless Lakefront Trail and friendly people teeming with Midwestern charm.

As a year-round commuter, I’ve come to love my daily adventures on my way to work. Because I generally run late in the mornings before I’ve had my coffee, I usually skip the scenic route by Lake Michigan and ride the straightest line possible through the city to get to work. This takes me through lovely neighborhoods like the Southport corridor, past Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field, through beautiful Lincoln Park and the bustling, ever-changing Loop.

After a long day at work, however, I wind down by returning home along the Lakefront Trail. There is not a more calming feeling than taking in the grandeur of Lake Michigan as the sun sets over the skyline, fellow cyclists you’ve come to know throughout the years waving as they pass by.

Image by Jason Lee

While the city is convenient for bike commuters, recreational cyclists face quite a few obstacles — the elements (think merciless 20+mph headwinds, or extended periods of sub-freezing temperatures), limited diversity in route options due to the city’s flat geography, and the usual traffic frenzy that comes in a major metropolitan area. But since reality tends to be what it is, I have learned to work with what is given to me — or to work around it.

Luckily, not all of Illinois is urban and pancake flat. Towards the state’s northwestern frontier, a cyclist’s paradise exists. Enter Galena, where hills and gravel routes abound, and the ratio of cars to cows is heavily dominated by the latter.

A mere three-hour drive from Chicago, picturesque country roads and rolling hills greeted me and my riding companion Frankie Andreu. A former pro, Frankie has ridden and raced the most iconic routes in the world. Yet because he was born and raised in Michigan, he still appreciates the nostalgic sense of home that riding in the Midwest evokes.

Now let me say this: I don’t usually ride with Tour de France legends or former Olympians. Naturally, I was very eager to pick Frankie’s brain and observe how he works, on and off the bike. Once in Galena, we explored the picturesque downtown area for a few miles. Immediately, Frankie and I wondered if we already got in more elevation than doing our regular riding around Chicagoland — or Metro Detroit, respectively.

To close out the day, we found ourselves at the Galena Brewing Company for a casual dinner, discussing our ride for the following day, getting excited at the thought of uninterrupted miles through gorgeous scenery. Our route was set up to incorporate the essential elements of the Midwest: a hundred miles of beautiful farm land, endless rollers, and forests abounding with different shades of green, with our grand finale being the banks of the Mississippi River.

For the fun of it, we decided to stay off the roads and hit gravel as often as possible. I fell asleep peacefully, with a smile of anticipation on my face.

Waking up to rain and gray skies, we decided on an extended breakfast at the local Victory Cafe. Though our hopes of a fair-weather ride were dashed, we tackled the route in good spirits. After all, unfavorable conditions go with gravel riding like post-ride beers and chili. With dark clouds looming above, we rolled out on our metric century. Soon enough, we were thankful for the sprinkles that kept us cool during the climbs — and they kept coming.

Left: Photographer Brian Vernor, Frankie and Jasmin. Upper right: Breakfast of champions. Lower right: For fast mixed-terrain riding, the Schwalbe G-One is hard to beat.

While I held my own up the hills, Frankie casually zoomed past me on the descents, flicking his fingers off his levers as he sped by, gleefully yelling “No brakes, Jasmin!”

We approached one of the tougher climbs on our route, appropriately named Devil’s Ladder. Starting out with a 1km climb at 10% gradient, it released us into a deceptive downhill before we hit another wall, and then another. Just as we headed into climb, the sky opened up and unleashed its full humid heat upon us — including all of the mosquitoes in Illinois, apparently. However, knowing our rest stop and the banks of the iconic Mississippi were just around the corner — more like 15km and a few hundred feet of climbing —  we kept moving onwards and upwards.

The town of Hanover was a compact collection of a few streets, perched on the banks of the Apple River. Its faded ambience seemed to come straight out of a Steven Shore photograph – gas station Americana at its best, capped by a memorable side conversation with a few locals and their take on conspiracy theories in US politics.

Topped up on water and slightly confused, we made our way towards the Mississippi. Frankie’s excitement to see the world’s fourth-longest river was almost tangible.

Leaving Hanover, the weather began to turn on us once more. A storm appeared rather quickly, and the hot sun rays piercing through the dark clouds created a dramatic backdrop as we worked through fierce crosswinds on the final stretches of gravel road.

Just as the rain started to hit us, we heard a rattling freight train approaching. The scene could not have been more perfect. Alongside the spectacular skies, and the sensation of relentless, heavy rain drops on our faces, all of a sudden, we picked up the pace and the race was on. As the rusty but colorful freight containers roared past, I couldn’t help but smile at this little intermezzo and how alive it made me feel.

And as if this wasn’t the best feeling one could have during a ride, we were taking our last turn to our final destination. Before us, the majestic Mississippi spread out in all its vastness and beauty. Immediately, the sight of this essential pillar of American mythology made us forget the miles and hills our legs worked hard to cover, and we soaked in the spirit of what was once the last frontier.

For more information on where to find the toughest climbs and picturesque routes, contact admin@visitgalena.org, or explore Galena Country online – www.VisitGalena.org

Race The Lake, or not.

Looking at my weekly activities, you can’t really call me lazy. I spend roughly ten hours per week on the bike, and throw in the occasional run (the legacy of a former triathlete…). Add in the relatively regular strength and yoga session and I have a pretty busy, active week.

However, I am pretty hedonistic in my training and usually prefer erratic group rides over intervals. And yet, something about Race the Lake, an 88 mile race around Lake Winnebago in Wisconsin, instilled some sort of training discipline on me. After an illuminatingly crushing weekend of long miles and climbing in Blue Mounds, WI, in July, I realized I needed to step up my training game and put in some more serious, targeted training before race day. And August 26th would come quickly!

The baseline:

I had spent most of the year either doing relatively hard but relatively short group rides, racing crits, or grinding up mountain sides in Colorado or Washington State. Not the ideal prep for an 88 mile race! Shortly after I realized I had to start logging long miles, I came to face the ugly reality of saddle sores, which kept me off the bike for a few days. Never ever ha I experienced this kind of discomfort on a bike before, and in addition to the excruciating pain, I didn’t want to jeopardize my race start. So, while taking time off is hard, it gave me some motivation to start thinking about fueling this race, getting back on the bike more consciously and to face my least favorite thing – long threshold intervals.

Training adjustments:

I did my first ever 3 x 20 minute interval ride and it was hard! My legs were not used to this kind of workout, but I managed to finish it as strongly as the traffic patterns of Chicagoland allowed for. Since I did not want to give up on  weeknight group rides, I set goals for each of them: coast less, work more, ride smarter and more aggressively, and keep my average power consistently higher during those rides. In general, I tried to add a few long rides prior to race week, and do a substantial amount of solo work during those. I wouldn’t say that my training was entirely dialed in to what Race the Lake would be, but I did work on some weaknesses and saw great improvements, both in watts and confidence.

Nutrition:

Oh the everlasting struggle! The evasive race weight fluctuating over me, I mostly tried to eat plenty of things that would make me feel good and energized. I have a tendency to eat whatever crosses my way when I’m in training mode, but I tried to approach this period with a little bit more foresight: lots of meal prep, fresh greens and fruit, enough carbs and fats to fuel my rides, and ample protein to recover. On the bike, I tried to eat consistently to avoid bonking or feeling sick from too much sugar – which isn’t easy to do, especially in the heat. Which brings me to the next aspect: hydration. I tend to overdrink in the summer, which I have had to pay for in earlier races. So I mad it a habit to drink every 15 minutes and switch between a drink mix with added sodium and water.

Race Day, or When nothing goes according to plan:

Having signed up for the pro wave, I figured it was going to be fast from the gun. I was decently confident that I was fit enough to hang in the pack. However, once the race started at 5:45am, the amount of wheels going all over the place, centerlines crossed and surges did affect me more than I wanted, and I found myself towards the back of the pack right away. This is not the greatest place to be, but I decided for mental comfort in the moment, which soon should prove to be a big mistake. As I got settled in behind a few racers, I completely and entirely missed the moment the pack broke apart. When I finally realized that the few riders in front of me had allowed a giant gap to be formed, the lead group was already out of sight. That was the moment I wanted to get off my bike and just be upset at myself. But I didn’t.  After around ten miles of pacelining with a group of around 10 riders, I had calmed my nerves and reassessed the situation. I figured that I needed to turn my frustrations into something productive so I could make the best of the worst. So with 30 miles to go, I decided that I needed to just go and race the rest of the race at my own speed. Luckily, one rider broke away with me and gave me a few minutes of recovery time every now and then. We settled into a nice rhythm and passed quite a few racers that had been spat off the back of the lead group. All of a sudden though, as we crested one of the final hills, several police cars and riders gathered at an intersection. I figured there must have been some sort of crash, but it turned out to be worse. The race got suspended and we all waited for quite some time. The race got suspended and we all waited for quite some time. Luckily, most of the crashed cyclists got away with minor bruises and were able to attend the post-race ceremony afterwards. While the race certainly didn’t go according to plan for most of us, it was definitely a good time to try something new and different. I will be back next year!

Learnings:

– Be assertive and pay attention to what your fellow racers do! Don’t miss breakaways because you’re looking at someones wheel or the sunrise etc

– Manage your emotions. There are few races that go according to plan, and some really don’t. I did well at not giving in to my frustrations. While this isn’t smart for an actual race, I was really excited that I turned my failed race into a hard workout and only found myself coasting at zero watts for only 18% of the entire ride

– Know your needs when it comes to hydration and nutrition. Especially in hot conditions, those can make or break your race. I was really happy that I consumed the right amount of liquids and calories to make it through the race without any signs of hangriness or cramps

Deep Winter Riding Part 2: The Tops

“You rode your bike in this weather? – I’m sure most if not all year round cyclists have heard this question, often paired with a stare of utter disbelief.

While riding through the winter can be uncomfortable (think snow and hail) and challenging (think black ice), it is also still the mot rewarding way to get around and workout for many bike aficionados. And with the right gear, riding year round is not even as bad as many assume.

While my legs usually keep decently warm while pedaling, my torso and arms often feel like they are in a different climate zone. So here’s how I layer up on top with a little guide for the right gear in different temperatures:

Winter Is Coming
Biemme Longsleeve Jersey

One of the pieces I have come to really like stems from Biemme, an Italian company relatively unknown in the US. Biemme was founded in 1978, and has developed products in cooperation with and for professional cyclists and teams ever since. The Biemme B-Wow Longsleeve jersey really feels more like a jersey-jacket hybrid. The jersey is made of superroubaix fabric, a ix of polyester and elastic. It also has a full covered front zipper – which you find out is pretty important when it gets uncomfortably windy. The one thing I don’t love about this piece is that it only features 2 half-moon side pockets, which make for a little less accessibility of your gear, but make for more secure storage when the ride gets bumpy. Being fabricated in Italy, the jersey comes at a pretty fair price point too.

Sugoi Technical Baselayer

Depending on jut how cold it is, I’d pair the jersey with a base layer. I really like the Sugoi RS Core Long Sleeve. Sago hails form Canada, so they might know a bit or two about extreme temperatures. This technical thermo base layer comes from Sugoi’s Pro range, and it is not only thin enough to fits easily under the jersey, it really is somewhat of a universal protection piece. The fabric is from the FinoPro material, and it really has outstanding moisture wicking performance. I can’t stress enough how important moisture management is especially in the winter. And the quick-drying DriActive Core technology in this long sleeve does a pretty impressive job. While it performs, the long sleeve is barely noticeable when you wear it. It is super soft on the skin and doesn’t irritate or itch anywhere, which is especially important for a base layer worn on your skin directly.

 

Ok, Winter Is Here

OrNotBike Thermo Jersey

When the temperature drops in the 50s, OrNot has you covered. OrNot has been around since 2013, and like so many outstanding cycling clothing manufacturers, they’re located in California. Their minimal design, high-quality clothing hails from San Francisco and they focus on keeping their production domestic, parenting with companies across the US. While their HQ is luck enough to be in a milder climate, they do offer nice range of thermo gear. OrNot’s long sleeve thermal jersey is made of super soft Italian micro-poly fabric, and a brushed fleece interior adds warmth and coziness. It comes in classic black with just the right highlights in the form of turquoise accents, so that your style matches the crisp morning air.

OrNotBike Thermal Jacket

Once the temps drop lower than 30 degrees Fahrenheit, I pair it with OrNot’s Thermal Jacket. OrNot actually redesigned this staple piece of winter riding for the 2016 season, when adding new features such as a slightly lighter fabric along with a revised, and women-specific cut for better fit – and they nailed it. The jacket was a perfect mix between stretchy and snug, allowing for movement without just feeling too large. I really appreciate the work that was put in to make this a women-specific fit. Furthermore, it’s neither black or pink, which sometimes seem to be the only options available for women-specific clothing. Similar to the winter jersey, the jacket has a pretty minimal design with just some smart design elements to keep it from being boring. 3 layers of water resistant, wind proof, breathable material keeps you rolling on long, cold rides. he interior has a soft brushed face with a bit of stretch and the side panels are made of breathable 4-way stretch material to aid in fit and thermal regulation. This jacket kept me rolling on longer winter days as well as commutes. For a relatively light winter jacket, I was really impressed with how great the fabric was breathing while keeping me toasty. While I haven’t used the jacket in a torrential downpour yet, it remained pretty waterproof during the light rain showers and flurries I rode it in, which is excellent and necessary for a Chicago cyclist. One of the best things about this jacket is that the 3 rear pockets are actually design for their seasonal use – and are slightly larger than normally to accommodate your gloved hands. Gamechanger!

They are also trimmed with reflective materials for more visibility on the road. The high collar keeps your neck protected, and a longer backside protects from road spray, which is especially helpful since I don’t have fenders on my road bike. #RideTodayORNOT

Winter is really here 

Braver than the Elements – Rapha Winter Jacket

The Rapha Classic Winter Jacket is a piece that I can’t praise highly enough. Rapha claims it to be the “culmination of 12 years of development,” and you can certainly feel that a lot of thought has been put into developing the ideal winter jacket. Lightweight and stylish, it makes sure I can withstand the harshest conditions Chicago has to offer. Neither really a hard nor a softshell, the jacket comes with a fabric that is both breathable and waterproof. The taped seams provide additional protection from the elements. The jacket is kept sealed against water and wind with an adjustable hi-vis shock cord on the hem and elastane inner cuffs. I definitely put the label waterproof to the test, riding in snow and rain and hail for a few hours. A stowable drop tail has hi-vis detailing for rides in low light, and reflective elements on the shoulders and cuffs offer further visibility. For training, the jacket offers ample back pockets, and one waterproof zipper pocket for valuables. The underarm zippers come in handy during training rides and provide added ventilation, which prevent me from overheating during harder efforts during the winter. Rapha gear certainly comes at a higher price point, but in this case, the investment might just be worth the pleasure the jacket will give you.

Isadore goes Arctic

If it’s really chilly, I put on the Isadore Shield Thermo Arctic Longsleeve underneath the jacket. The jersey is made of Bi-Component Merino (53% Polyestere, 44% Merino Wool 3% Lycra), and is designed to keep you really warm. The jersey is not only well crafted and beautifully designed, it really does a great job at doing what it’s made for: Keeping you warm and toasty.

Layering up

Isadore Wool Base Layer

If I intend on going harder and don’t want to be quite as warm, the Isadore Wool base layer is a common feature in my daily choice of what to wear underneath it all. The slim fit is snug yet comfortable, so my movement never feels restricted on the bike. The piece is 100% Merino wool, and everyone who likes the thermoregulatory and odor control features of wool knows why this is a staple in my cycling outfits. The dense 140g/m of Wool makes the piece warm and yet highly breathable and moisture wicking. What I like most is that there are no labels or tags in the baselayer, so there’s no itching or chafing of any sorts while wearing it directly on the skin. The arms are nice and long and feature cuffs with thumbholes for full arm coverage up to your hands – which prevents wind from entering into the tiniest gaps between jersey and gloves.

Early Spring: When the air is still brisk, put a vest on it

Voler Thermal Longsleeve

Voler is one of those companies that pretty much always has you covered. They even published a guide on how to layer correctly. I really like their gear, as it is functional, high quality and accessible for me and my wallet. The Simplicity thermal LS jersey is a super versatile piece that I wear often to say the least. Luckily it comes in all kinds of colors and patterns, so it’s easy to mix and match with the gear you already own. As most classic cycling jerseys, it has three rear pockets across the lower back with elastic across the top edge and reinforced stitching for secure storage even on more bumpy rides. The jersey is made of GeoTherm Fabric with fleece backing, which essentially means it is breathable enough to be comfortable when breaking a sweat and still warm enough in colder temps.

Eliel Cycling Vest

The recommended temp range for the Simplicity Longsleeve jersey is 45-60˚F, but if it’s in the 40s, I usually pair it with a vest – I’m a woman after all, I get cold! I am not the biggest fan of vests in general, but I am learning to trust that a warm core makes for warm (enough) arms on most rides. My absolute favorite vest is the Eliel Dawn Patrol Palomar Vest. Eliel is a CA-based company started by cyclists that pairs their knowledge about riding with the latest technology. And you can definitely feel that they know what they’re doing when trying their products.  Named after an epic climb in Southern California, the Palomar Vest is one of those multitaskers that delivers when needed. Its stretch performance front has a windproof membrane that keep you toasty in high winds, a 2-way zipper allows for adjustability, and the mesh back gives your back ample breathability. And in case you get a little too warm on your ride, it easily packs into your jersey’s rear pocket. My favorite thing about the vest is that its two large rear pockets are completely reflective – I love being visible!

Spring: When it’s fresh, but not quite cold anymore

Tenspeed Hero Longsleeve Jersey

I love when form meets fashion, and local cycling designer Tenspeed Hero is a force of its own when it comes to unique design. From oranges to stripes to #sprinklewatts, TSH smartly adds a dash of color and steez to your gear. The Blue Striped Jersey is one of the more tame designs in the TSH lineup, but that makes it so perfect for commuting. And despite its classic look, it alludes to the piece’s description by the designer team ”We come to the mountains because we came from the mountains. We come for the mountain light. The alpenglow.” You might not get scenery on your commute, but you might just as well dream of it 🙂 The long sleeve is medium weight fleece with wind guarded upper and a chin guard, so it’s perfect for commutes at the turn of seasons. As most cycling jerseys, it comes with three bag pockets that might not be needed on a commute, but hold all the treats, keys and other odds and ends you might need on a quick training ride.

Next up: All about accessorizing right during the colder months

This post was originally published at http://www.thechainlink.org/page/deep-winter-riding-part-2-the-tops.

Deep Winter Riding Part 1: The Bottoms

Originally published at The Chainlink.

“You rode your bike in this weather? – I’m sure most if not all year round cyclists have heard this question, often paired with a stare of utter disbelief.

While riding through the winter can be uncomfortable (think snow and hail) and challenging (think black ice), it is also still the mot rewarding way to get around and workout for many bike aficionados. And with the right gear, riding year round is not even as bad as many assume.

Deep winter riding

With deep winter, I refer to those days that really make you believe that riding your bike can’t possible be any worse than waiting for the bus or the train alongside many shivering commuters. With temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, I really make sure I am dressed well for my commute. My commute is a mere 6 miles, but with Chicago traffic, it takes just enough time to make me painfully cold if I don’t put on the right layers. As soon as temperatures get up to the 30s, I try to take some of my training ride outdoors as well – oftentimes, spending more time outside requires for some chemical hand/toe warmers on top of the right gear.

Here’s a little guide for the right gear in different temperatures:

Part 1 – The Bottoms

I usually commute in a pair of jeans, but if it’s freezing, I sight to thermo tights and leg warmers. This combination is much more comfortable than trying to fit another layer underneath my office pants.

Bib Tights

Some of my favorite thermo bibs come from Isadore. Isadore is a brand created by pro rider Martin Velits. They source their materials for both products and packaging  sustainably, “so the world will still look pretty from a bike in the future to come.” – An approach that really resonates with me. Their women-specific winter bibs are made from water-repellent Thermoroubaix materials, which is incredibly soft due to the brushed fleece on the inside. The fabric is also treated with an MITI DWR™ Fabric Protector to enhance the ability of the fabric repel water and dirt – which I have tested over and over again riding through mud, snow, sleet and puddles. The tights feature single stirrup to protect the sensitive achilles and keep the bottom part in place while I am moving. I also really enjoy the TMF® chamois, constructed of Airmesh, a 100% recyclable material, which makes this the world’s first totally ecological chamois. The reflective signs and logo on both legs enhance visibility in traffic – don’t be a bike ninja when riding in low light!

Tights

If you don’t like bibs for the hassle of getting them off during rides, there are some pretty great winter tights options as well. One of my staples comes from Caifornia-based company Voler. and they are perfect not only for commuting but also for longer winter rides. The Caliber Mariposa Thermal Tight is one of the most comfortable cycling bottoms I have ever worn, and its Yukon thermal fabric is warm and durable. It comes with zippers at the ankles for easy changing, and with reflective accents, which I really appreciate during my commutes. Voler also issues a winter layering guide, which comes in helpful when deciding how to dress properly for the elements for the first time around.

A tight that’s not quite as warm but ideal for 30 to 50 degrees F weather is one of my favorites for commuting by Aero Tech, a company that focuses on USA-made cycling gear and comes at a pretty attractive price point. The 3M Reflective Elite Slasher Padded Cycling Tights comes with bright reflective elements that make for enhanced visibility in low light conditions in traffic during my morning and evening commutes.

Bib Knickers

Sugoi’s Women Pro Bib Knickers are a blessing when nature calls on those long rides – or when you’re getting ready to race. With their patent-pending “Pitstop clips, there’s no more need to fully undress before using the restroom – the bibs detach with an easy two-clip system. The bibs are definitely designed for a more competitive use. The 3-way fabric used increases breathability on the front of the legs for increased moisture management, a more robust fabric on the inner legs that improves durability around the chamois, and using an Ultra Aero fabric on the outer thighs for maximum aero efficiency. Needless to say, those knickers also feature reflective elements and a chamois that keeps you comfortable for hours on end. and  All in all, Sugoi produced some top-notch knickers with this model, especially due to the female-friendly halter system that I’m missing in so many other bibs.

Leg/Knee Warmers

If one layer isn’t enough, or if I’m out for a long ride, I throw some leg or knee warmers in the mix. When it’s cold, it’s important to keep your joints warm and smooth. Unlike regular leg warmers, the Aero Tech double knee leg warmers provide two layers of insulation against the elements where it’s needed most. The fabric engineers looked at mother Nature for inspiration and modeled the material after the polar bear’s fur. It encloses a hollow core that traps air for additional warmth while keeping the warmers stretchy and light for maximum moving comfort.

1,000 lbs of Epsom Salt & I

A lot of you have asked about my experience during my first sensory deprivation float, so here’s a little review.

I went to Float Sixty in Chicago last night with a few girlfriends who had heard about it through our triathlon network. The facility and staff were super nice, and while I hadn’t really thought much about it before getting there, I started to become curious. Everyone knows Epsom salt is good for you, but I don’t even have a tub at home, so I never get to enjoy any of the benefits. So, being as sore as I was after a hard run, followed by a hard lifting session followed by a hard ride in the past days, I was dreaming about getting into this tank for an hour and coming our good as new, muscles super relaxed and happy.

While I showered and got ready for the session, I realized that 60minutes of floating equals an hour of doing pretty much nothing. I became a bit skeptical, as I can’t even remember the last time I purely relaxed for that long. I’m not one for napping, so it really was a challenging thought for me.

Getting into the tank was nice, the water was warm enough (I was a little anxious I’d be freezing), and with the lid closed, the air became humid and warm. So there I was, ear plugs in, floating in the dark. The sensation of being weightless and just lying was interesting and enjoyable. I tried to think myself back to vacations by the ocean. I had a hard time switching off my brain, but I tried to focus on the benefits my body, and honestly my mind as well, would experience. After a while, I realized an hour can be a loooong time. I started moving around, repositioning my arms and my legs, moving around the tank a bit. There’s clearly not much you can do in there, so I was a little relieved when the hour was finally over.

Getting rid of all the salt on my body after, I felt pretty relaxed. Float60 has a cozy little area in which they serve you water and tea after, so I chatted a bit with my friends about their experience and then we all went home, rather sleepily.

So, upon waking up this morning, I was more than curious to see how my body felt. And while some of the recovery might just be due to time and sleep, my legs felt much less sore than the days prior. I wouldn’t say they were magically restored to complete non-soreness (I still decided not to run commute this morning) but I felt significantly less pain during my slow and relaxing bike ride to work.

Overall, if you are one for meditation and relaxation, I think float in might just be right for you. Either way, I’m happy I was forced to slow down, even if just for an hour. Find out more about floating here http://www.floatsixty.com.

I’m a Chainlink ambassador again!

I’m a dedicated commuter and competitive cyclist and triathlete, riding my mostly pink bikes around Chicagoland year-round. And I love love love sharing my passion and the freedom and joy cycling has brought to my life openly and honestly. For 2017, I am proud to be an Ambassador for The Chainlink again to get more people, especially  women, on bikes. Here’s a little overview of who I am and why and what I ride! Follow me on Instagram to learn more: @tri.heart and @princess_layup.

Types of cycling:

All of the riding, racing and commuting year-round. I enjoy the different challenges that come with mixing up the terrain and dealing with all sorts of weather.

First bike?

My first bike was a hand-me down from my sister – a mountain bike with a star-spangled banner paint scheme that I rode through college.

What inspires you to ride?

I love the wind in my face, whether it’s on a commute or a race. I like the sweat and the tears, the joy and the pain, the community and the camaraderie that comes with riding bikes. Plus, it truly is the best way to get around town in Chicago. I have learned so much by riding, I got to know myself better, I pushed my boundaries, I searched for new challenges – one pedal stroke at a time.

Any advice for people who are just getting started commuting and/or riding?
Enjoy it. Don’t get too obsessed with gear and data, just explore, be safe, and have fun while you ride.

Do you have a cycling bucket list? What’s on the list?
In 2017 I’d like to go on as many bike adventures as possible, and explore some new states via bike. I’d also like to explore track racing more, which is fun and terrifying at the same time. One day, I’d like to ride my bike across New Zealand.

Favorite places to bike to for a snack, drinks, coffee, or food?
I love stopping by the new Rapha Clubhouse for coffee and meeting friends. Another favorite of mine is Vegetarian Express on Damen across the street from Turin Bicycles – I am somewhat of a regular there after the Wednesday Night Rides in the summer.

How many bikes do you own?
Currently four: my Giant Envie road bike (The Jamster), Giant Brava CX bike (Jamie), GT Zaskar mountain bike (Jay-Z) and my Momentum commuter, Jaylah. I am looking for a track bike to add to the collection…obviously, I’m always on the look out to grow the family.