Weakness:back Issues (Due to Overuse in Aero Position)

A break from the time trial bike, while adopting a more upright position on the mountain bike, can help rest back muscles that are suffering from overuse. The mountain bike position also introduces more lateral movement, which can strengthen the stabilizing muscles needed to make riding in aero position more comfortable. This change in position and more dynamic pedalling allows the body to recover from a lot of miles hunched over the time trial bike.

Taking a break in the offseason from structured training and reconnecting with nature riding in the trails is great for motivation. It is mentally draining struggling to reach numbers and performance metrics all season. Using some mountain bike training to stay in touch with some intensity without forcing training is the best way to start fresh and strong for the coming season.

Pro triathlete Melaine Mcquaid is an Xterra and Ironman 70.3 champion.