A log helps the athlete stick to a fitness routine, which provides a better chance of achieving set goals. It is a place to record details of how you felt and a reference for planning future workouts.
What Type of Log
Individual athletes will want to choose and design their own type of log. The log can be very detailed and lengthy in information and/or use abbreviations of what type of ride it was - the location, weather conditions and who they rode with. Some polar heart rate programs or bike computers also have software providing a detailed logging system for each ride.
Free online training logs are also available. Just type Free Cycling Training Log in a search Engine.
What to record
The location, distance/time and effort. Also core workouts and any weight lifting or cross training sessions. Comment about how you felt during and after the ride, and mention such facts as the weather and your work schedule or amount of sleep you had if you had a bad day. Such information gives you a history of what types of factors affect your training, and can provide insight on how to improve or step up your training program from year to year. As an athlete continues training, but continues to conduct the same workouts at the same intensity how is one to improve. Record your efforts and each year build onto your training program for continued improvement. Periodically review your training log to determine why you are not improving or what lead up to reaching a good performance. That said, remember that there are 12 months in the year and it is ill advised to train at a high intensity for more than 6 months. Cross training is a good diversion and strengthens neglected areas as well as providing a mental break while you continue to maintain basic fitness.
