Research by a German University confirmed that cycling improves cognitive ability and brain functions. I read this in the health fund magazine that my parent's left laying around here. Now, my light-bulb moment during last Sunday's ride may or may not be a strike of genius but I came up with the idea of buying a Garmin. After six weeks of relying on iPhone applications for some riding stats and with still no news on the repair of my Powertap, I just figured that with a Garmin I can put an end to my misery of relying (or non-relying) on perceived exertion. That way I can have all my beloved data like heartrate, speed, cadence, distance now (and whenever I choose to ride my Corima race wheels in future) and also be able to use the Garmin with my Powertap wheel thanks to the Ant+ compatibility.I returned home exited and not long before the Garmin Edge 500 was ordered. It arrived last Wednesday, within 24 hours of ordering. Great service First Endurance!
Then I upgraded my WKO+ analysis program to the new version 3.0 so I can download data directly into the WKO+ software without having to fiddle with device agents. A little hiccup at the download, which was my own stupid fault because I didn't save the registration code, and an email to the WKO+ support desk was necessary. Once again I was impressed by the service and professionalism. They apologised for the trouble I was having when there was no need to apologise. The software is now installed and I played with the new Quadrant Analysis tool. Geeky? I did get excited and analysed a couple of old rides for which I had the power data.
Next I got my annual training program out. Racing was supposed to start in three weeks with the Battle on the Border. That's now out of question. The May races with the Metropolitan Championship are all cancelled. It sucks but I can live with that. Missing the Tour of the Scenic Rim and the Cunningham Classic and other June/July races would really hurt but I'm not going to stress about that now. The doctor assured me that I should be good for the State Championship and Bright later in the year.
More tests were done today and my doctor got me into the specialist on short notice. She apparently is booked out until June but will see me next week.
I'm full of optimism. Of course it's only easy riding for now but at least I'm allowed to ride at all and the good thing is that I will be forced to stick with base training a little longer, which will help building a good solid base for later in the year.
9 comments:
I have one of those myself. I lost my Garmin 705 and replaced with the 500. I like it - my power data runs through it smoothly - so much better than using the powertap computer for intervals. my only complaint with it is the display is a bit dim even with the backlight always on - would be much better with a white background instead of the grey. Hard to see late or in bright sun. The garmin 705 was the best.
I just ordered a 500. I was using a garmin 310xt with my quarq power meter but it just seemed like a toy. I don't think I'm brave enough to jump into the WKO3.0 pool yet though. Keep us posted!
that's the spirit! stay positive and keep those wheels spinning, just not to fast ;)
...as always with injuries/enforced rest you suddenly realise that the most import thing isn't speed or results, just the fact that you can.
am i the only one who doesn't use a garmin?
have fun with all the data!! :)
Good to see you're getting you geek on! Ain't nothing wrong with being a techno weenie!
Research by a German University confirmed that cycling improves cognitive ability and brain functions.
My Garmin 500 is so good I forgot to post for eight days...
-B
Judi, yes, you are the only person without a Garmin. I have an Edge 305 and use it on three different bikes. It is simple enough that even I can use it. Usually.
I love my Garmin! But it's not as fancy as the 500. It's coming, though. I can see it. Keep on riding!
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