Heart rate variability may be useful as a guide to your recovery and readiness for training, and that it may improve fitness compared to a traditional periodization plan. How does it compare to a block periodization approach?

Toolbox: No bike racing and indoor training are not the end of the world - and neither is this break in your cycling fitness. Here's what to expect and how to make the most of the recent change in plans.

Cyclists determined to improve their condition have a wide variety of choices, from training diaries to formal programs to online coaching. But recent developments have now opened up a multi-million dollar market for an aspect many of us don't pay much attention to: recovery. A new book, “Good to Go” is devoted entirely to this subject and the science-or lack of science-behind it all.

Toolbox: It’s not how many times you get knocked down - it’s how many times you get up. Cycling teaches many valuable lessons, and one of the most valuable is how to handle adversity. Understanding how to best recover from a cycling injury can greatly reduce your comeback time and get you to a better place than before.

Fall is a fabulous time of the year to log long and fun rides. So why am I telling you to take 7-14 days off the bike? Today we’ll talk about the importance of taking a physical and mental break from the bike, and how doing so can super-charge your results for the next year.

TOOLBOX: The days are getting shorter, the big events have passed, and our attention is turning to preparation for next season. Cyclists and endurance athletes are entering the rest and transition phase that marks the start of off-season training.  Here's an effective 6 week plan to design and execute this off-season phase to pay big dividends later.

Cyclists determined to improve their condition have a wide variety of choices, from training diaries to formal programs to online coaching. But recent developments have now opened up a multi-million dollar market for an aspect many of us don't pay much attention to: recovery. A new book, “Good to Go” is devoted entirely to this subject and the science-or lack of science-behind it all.

Toolbox: Unfortunately, the timing to talk about cycling injuries is quite good, with major injuries to Chris Froome and even our own Toolbox Editor Dr. Stephen Cheung. What’s the role of proper nutrition during the recovery and rehabilitation process? How should your diet be modified during this time?

Toolbox: Injuries are almost always unexpected, and always unwanted. Paying attention to both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery can have far-reaching implications in speeding up or slowing down the recovery process.