Tag Archive for: Austin

Achieve Your Perfect Bike Saddle Height

Adjusting your bike to the perfect saddle height is crucial in order to maximize comfort and payoff during your training rides for Kerrville Tri. Incorrect height leads to pain and discomfort during and after your ride. It can also prevent you from improving your performance on the bike. Learn the importance of correct saddle height, and how to adjust your bike to the perfect fit with these easy steps.

What is Saddle Height?

Saddle height is measured by the distance between the center of the pedal axle and the top of the saddle, or your bike seat. This is set by adjusting the seat post to your ideal height to balance your comfort and power on the bike. This height is arguably the single most important adjustment on your bicycle. Incorrect height can contribute to discomfort in the saddle, anterior and posterior knee pains, and ultimately limit how much power you produce.

How To Adjust Your Saddle Height

There are many ways you can approach finding your perfect saddle height. One of the best approaches is to establish it based on the rider’s individual ride characteristics and flexibility. You can follow the “heel to pedal method” before your next ride. This will get you in the ballpark.

  1. Stand next to your bike and raise the saddle to your hip to get an idea of where to start.
  2. Get on your bike, and place your heel on the pedal to determine if you will raise or lower your saddle.
    • If you are having trouble making contact with your heel to your pedal – the seat is too high.
    • If your knee is bent – it is too low.
  3. Put your bike on the trainer and adjust accordingly.
  4. Get back on your bike with your heel on the pedal and pedal backward to reach the six o’clock position.
  5. Your leg should be completely straight, without being overextended to achieve the correct saddle height.

Pro tip: Make very small adjustments during this process, then repeat until you have found the perfect height.

Ready to Ride

Once you find the proper height, use a piece of electrical tape around at the base of the post where it meets the seat clamp as a marker. Take a tape measure and record the measurements, in case you need to make very slight adjustments in the future.

Have a professional look at your bike every few years to achieve maximum comfort. After adjusting your bike to the perfect saddle height, make the first few rides short. Give it time!  Your body may need a few sessions to adapt to your new height before you feel yourself improving on your cycling journey. How often do you check your saddle height? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Beginner’s Guide to Swimming in Cold Water

Learn the benefits and safety tips of swimming in cold water

Swimming in cold water is an exhilarating experience. It’s a fantastic way to get fit, unwind, and strengthen both your mind and body. Swimming laps in chilly water can wake you up and make you feel alive in a way that no warm swimming pool can. For triathletes, cold, open water swimming is a vital part of training. It can provide you with more space and fewer swimmers since everyone won’t flock to the cold swimming areas. Learn why taking an icy dip can be good for you and how to accomplish it safely.

Benefits of Swimming in Cold Water

  1. Increased stress tolerance

Swimming in cold water has many benefits.

Swimming in cold water is scientifically documented to improve psychological markers of stress tolerance. The shock and adaptation you experience make your body thrive under stress in the long run, not just tolerate it. Swimming in cold water increases the adaption even more. Just like any other physical activity, it’s an excellent method to relieve stress.

  1. Improved circulation

Coldwater imposes vasoconstriction on your blood vessels, followed by a period of compensatory vasodilation. This forces your body to warm your core when you enter the cold water. It then creates a dilation when blood rushes to your extremities to warm them up again. This process of alternation between constriction and dilation dramatically improves overall circulation.

  1. Superior calorie burn

Wearing a wetsuit can help you retain body heat.

Swimming against cold waters forces your body to thermoregulate more than usual while you focus your mind and body on the difficult task of swimming. It also improves fat metabolization which makes you leaner and healthier in the long run. Swimming is considered a complete workout because you’re using every part of your body.

 

Follow These Safety Tips

  1. Start small

Gradually immerse yourself in the chilly waters to begin. You can practice at home by slowly increasing the amount of cold water in your shower. It will be difficult to control your breathing initially, but continued training can reduce the amount of time you need to adjust to the cold. When building workouts, begin with shorter distances. This allows your body to acclimate to the temperature and adjust your breathing technique. Lastly, explore these helpful tips for taking your swim from the pool to the open water.

  1. Don’t swim alone

Swimming might be a solo sport, but that shouldn’t stop you from doing it with your friends.

Find your local swimming groups and participate in group swims. Swim partners can provide valuable feedback on your swim style, your kick, and your breathing that can lead to improvements. Partner swimming also provides an extra pair of eyes in case something goes wrong. And, don’t forget about the accountability factor. Knowing your friend or group is meeting you for a workout increases the likelihood that you show up too.

  1. Wear a wetsuit

A wetsuit retains body heat and allows you to focus on the mechanical aspects of swimming first. It also helps to minimize the impact of cold water. You can then focus on your form, sighting, kicking, and breathing in the water. You could eventually graduate to wearing wetsuit shorts.

 

What You Need to Get Started

  • gym bag to carry all your gear
  • towel
  • wetsuit
  • swim goggles
  • extra clothes for after your swim

Swimming in cold water is possibly one of the most challenging feats a triathlete can face. It can be intimidating and difficult, but engaging in a gradually increasing training regimen with small increments can work wonders. Stay safe with our advice and practice often. Eventually swimming in cold water won’t even bother you.

What is a Bento Box and How to Use One

Learn what a bento box is and how you’ll enjoy longer bike rides with it

Cyclists need proper nutrition, especially on longer rides. A bento box is a lightweight and effective way to carry more nutrition for your long bike rides. Carrying a gel or a waffle in a jersey pocket is a good option for short to medium distances. But when you’re increasing your mileage, lack of nutrition can lead to fatigue. During longer training rides you want to carry enough fuel with you without affecting your balance. Before you begin any long rides, make sure your bike has had a proper tune-up.

Bento boxes have a minimalist design, won’t flap around in the wind, and aren’t too clunky. They’re also available in a variety of sizes. Some bikes have fittings designed to install bento boxes. However, most of them are affixed with Velcro straps to your bike frame. The ideal bento box should be small enough to not slow you down or impact your form. But you also want them to be large enough to carry everything you need. Are you ready to add a bento box to your bike? Check out three of our favorites below.

Zone3 Aero Top Tube

The shape of this Zone3 Top Tube allows you to carry what you need without overloading your bike. This bento box can be fitted to the top tube of your bike around the stem. It has loop straps and four hooks. It neatly fits the frame of your bike. You’ll have easy access to everything you need during your ride. This box can also store your phone, keys, or credit card. It’s manufactured from a waterproof material with a large waterproof zipper.

Apidura Top Tube Pack

Apidura is known for its ultralight equipment, like its Top Tube Pack. This box is made from tear-resistant, lightweight, and waterproof Hexalon material. This tough, durable pack is lightweight, weighing only 107 grams. It has dual mounting positions to suit different bikes. The flip-top lid has a magnetic closure making opening and closing very easy. In case your bike does not have top tube mounting points, Apidura provides Velcro straps to strap the pack to the top tube.

Oveja Negra Snack Pack XL

This bento box comes in lots of designs and colors. The Snack Pack remains stable in any road condition due to its wide Velcro top-tube strap. This bag has a large interior and a zipper which can be easily grasped even with gloved hands. The Bolt-On Snack Pack is available in different sizes and bolt-on styles. It weighs 3.6 ounces and is made in the USA.

Cycling Rules of the Road

Knowing the rules of the road is crucial to keep you and the rest of your squad safe

Follow these rules of the road every time you ride and to stay safe during your training for your upcoming triathlon!

9 must-know safety tips for your next ride

Stay safe during your training rides by knowing the rules of the road. Whether you’re riding to lunch with co-workers around the block or completing a long training ride for Kerrville Triathlon Festival, the following group riding guidelines will come in handy. Knowing these rules of the road will also make the ride more enjoyable and safer for everyone involved. Memorize these 9 Rules of the Road to cover your butt and keep you safe. 

Cycling Rules of the Road for your upcoming ride

  1. Complete a quick, pre-ride safety check.
  2. Obey all traffic laws. Here are a few examples: Yield to pedestrians, use the bike lane, use hand signals, and watch out for traffic lights! Just like in a car, the same rules apply when riding a bike.  Do not run red lights!
  3. Operate bike in such a manner as to not offend or endanger motorists, pedestrians, etc.
  4. Wear a helmet for safety (and be a good model for children).
  5. Activate all lights on bikes.
  6. Wear reflective gear that makes the group more visible, even in the daytime.
  7. Ride single file when you’re with others except in areas where it is safe to ride side-by-side.
  8. Avoid slowing down abruptly or making any other sudden moves.
  9. Ask experienced riders questions when you’re not sure what is occurring.

Important hand signals

On your left! You’ve probably experienced fellow cyclists shouting at you in efforts to get your attention on the road. But, hand signals, instead of words, are used to warn riders of potential danger on the roadway. Especially when riding in a pack, the only cyclist who has enough visual warning is the front cyclist. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the lead rider to warn the cyclists behind them. If the lead cyclist (or the cyclist in front of you):

  • shakes their hand to the right = there’s a pothole, branch, or some obstacle to the right
  • shakes their hand to the left = there’s an obstacle to the left
  • puts hand behind their posterior = follow right behind them as there might be obstacles on both sides
  • puts right hand down with the flat of the hand facing you = lead cyclist is slowing down or coming to a stop

It’s crucial to know these hand signals to keep yourself safe when riding alone to avoid a collision with another cyclist. Last but not least, being aware of your surroundings is essential to keep yourself safe during a ride. Be on the lookout and apply these rules of the road to keep yourself safe next time you go for a ride.

7 Places to Visit on Your Road Trip Between Austin and Kerrville

Don’t dread the drive, check out our 7 favorite places you must visit between Austin and Kerrville for the road trip of a lifetime.

1. Pecan Street Brewing

Pecan Street Brewing 7 Places to Visit on Your Road Trip Between Austin and Kerrville

Inside Look: Pecan Street Brewing

Hardware store-turned-brewery, Pecan Street Brewing is a must-see. Located in Johnson City, Pecan Street Brewing is a local favorite hangout to grab a beer with friends! While you’re there, you have the option to enjoy a craft beer, brewed on-site, various craft cocktails, or Texas wines. Don’t forget to save room for their famous brick-oven pizza! On the weekends, this pet-friendly spot also features live music for passers-by to enjoy with new friends.

2. Shopping in Johnson City

While you’re in Johnson City, make your way down to Main Street and Nugent Ave. for some shopping! These locally owned stores offer everything from knick-knacks to fine art and antiques, so plan a day to relax and enjoy the shopping Johnson City has to offer!

3. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

Check out the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park to get a tour of LBJ’s childhood home and other cool exhibits about our 36th president. Located 14 miles down the road from the national park, the official state park is home to his ranch house, or the Texas White  House, that you can also take a tour of. The State Park also offers a free driving tour of all the grounds so be sure to stop by!

4. Official Luckenbach Texas General Store

View of General Store in Lukenbach. 7 Places to Visit on Your Road Trip Between Austin and Kerrville

Post-office-turned-Saloon

Don’t take it from us, take it from Willie Nelson! “Luckenbach, Texas” singer helped put Luckenbach on the map. While you’re there,  you can’t miss the Official Luckenbach Texas General Store in Fredricksburg. What locals used to call their post office and favorite bar, this Western-style saloon and general store is a must-see. Almost every night you can expect live music in the dance hall  Sit back with a beer and enjoy the music or show off some moves, you will love visiting one of the Hill Country’s most cherished spots!  

5. Jack and Adams Bicycles Fredricksburg

The second location of the bike shop that started it all with Jack’s Generic Tri in 2003! Stop by Jack and Adams Bicycle Fredricksburg to check out their impressive collection of every type of bike imaginable, and endless options of cycling gear. Get expert advice on anything and everything cycling during your visit, so be sure to drop by and say hi!

6. Woerner’s Warehouse Cafe + Catering

Once you’ve worked up an appetite from hitting the other spots on this guide, you have to stop at Woerners Warehouse Cafe + Catering in Fredricksburg for one of the tastiest sandwiches you’ll ever have made with all locally grown produce! Pair your sandwich or salad with their famous coffee or cocktails!

View from Enchanted Rock. 7 Places to Visit on Your Road Trip Between Austin and Kerrville

View from Enchanted Rock

7. Enchanted Rock

One of the best experiences you’ll have in the Texas Hill Country. Climb the pink granite dome to the top of Enchanted Rock for an unbeatable view of the hill country scenery. Spend the day walking the many trails around the park, then camp overnight for the opportunity to stargaze with an unobstructed view.

 

It’s never too early to start your planning! Make a vacation out of traveling to participate in Kerrville Tri, or The Rookie Tri out in Austin when you visit our top 7 favorite places between Kerrville and Austin.

Free Sprint Distance Triathlon Training Plan

10-week sprint distance triathlon training program to get you ready for Kerrville Tri

Professional triathlete and coach Paul “Barny” Matthews has built a 10-week sprint distance triathlon training plan to get you ready for this year’s Kerrville Triathlon on September 28th! If you want to complete the Debra Zapata Sprint Triathlon, download this sprint distance triathlon training plan and toe the start line with confidence.

Register for the sprint distance and start training today!

Matthews has won or placed at numerous IRONMANs and 70.3s. He broke onto the triathlon scene at the 2014 IRONMAN Asia Pacific Championship in Melbourne. The native Australian finished 2nd in his home country with a time of 8:02:14. He has also won some Austin races, including Rookie Triathlon and Jack’s Generic Triathlon. His coaching style provides triathletes with a blend of knowledge he’s learned first-hand and what he’s been taught from other world-class triathletes.

This downloadable training plan is geared for triathletes who want to complete their first or second sprint distance triathlon. It’s also ideal for triathletes who want to set a PR. You can further customize this training plan yourself by adjusting the specific workouts and their days to fit your busy life.

After you download Barny’s free training plan, click on the day’s workout to learn about the workout’s description. Each daily workout has been conveniently hyperlinked to the workout. This allows you to know precisely what you need to complete that day. This is handy if you have to switch days based on your hectic schedule!

Pro tip: when you have a rest day, take it!

If you want to take your training to the next level, then contact Matthews today. Make sure you ask for his special Kerrville Tri coaching rate! Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see where he’s training and join him for a workout.

Download the entire training plan!

July sprint distance triathlon training plan for Debra Zapata Sprint Triathlon.

August sprint distance triathlon training plan for Debra Zapata Sprint Triathlon.

September sprint distance triathlon training plan for Debra Zapata Sprint Triathlon.

Free Quarter Distance Triathlon Training Plan

3-month quarter distance triathlon training program to get you ready for Kerrville Tri

Professional triathlete and coach Paul “Barny” Matthews has put together the perfect 3-month quarter distance triathlon training plan to get you ready for this year’s Kerrville Triathlon on September 29th! If you’re ready to make the jump from sprint triathlon, download this quarter distance triathlon training plan and toe the start line with confidence.

Register for the quarter distance and start training today!

Matthews has won or placed at numerous IRONMANs and 70.3s. He broke onto the triathlon scene at the 2014 IRONMAN Asia Pacific Championship in Melbourne. The native Australian finished 2nd in his home country with a time of 8:02:14. He has also won some Austin races, including Rookie Triathlon and Jack’s Generic Triathlon. His coaching style provides triathletes with a blend of knowledge he’s learned first-hand and what he’s been taught from other world-class triathletes.

This downloadable training plan is geared for triathletes who want to complete their first quarter distance triathlon. It’s also ideal for triathletes who want to set a PR. You can further customize this training plan yourself by adjusting the specific workouts and their days to fit your busy life.

After you download Barny’s free training plan, click on the day’s workout to learn about the workout’s description. Each daily workout has been conveniently hyperlinked to the workout. This allows you to know precisely what you need to complete that day. This is handy if you have to switch days based on your hectic schedule!

Pro tip: when you have a rest day, take it!

If you want to take your training to the next level, then contact Matthews today. Make sure you ask for his special Kerrville Tri coaching rate! Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see where he’s training and join him for a workout.

Download the entire training plan!

Quarter distance triathlon training plan for July.

Quarter distance triathlon training plan for August.

Quarter distance triathlon training plan for September.

Free Half Distance Triathlon Training Plan

3-month half distance triathlon training program to get you ready for Kerrville Tri

Professional triathlete and coach Paul “Barny” Matthews has put together the perfect 3-month half distance triathlon training plan to get you ready to complete the full 70.3 distance at this year’s Kerrville Triathlon on September 29th! Whether this is your first or your fifth half iron distance, download this training plan and toe the start line with confidence.

Register for the half distance and start training today!

Matthews has won or placed at numerous IRONMANs and 70.3s. He broke onto the triathlon scene at the 2014 IRONMAN Asia Pacific Championship in Melbourne. The native Australian finished 2nd in his home country with a time of 8:02:14. He has also won some Austin races, including Rookie Triathlon and Jack’s Generic Triathlon.

This downloadable training plan is geared for triathletes who want to complete their first half distance triathlon. It’s also ideal for triathletes who want to set a 70.3 PR. You can further customize this training plan yourself by adjusting the specific workouts and their days to fit your busy life.

After you download Barny’s free training plan, click on the day’s workout to learn about the workout’s description. Each daily workout has been conveniently hyperlinked to the workout. This allows you to know precisely what you need to complete that day. This is handy if you have to switch days based on your hectic schedule!

Pro tip: when you have a rest day, take it!

If you want to take your training to the next level, then contact Matthews today. Make sure you ask for his special Kerrville Tri coaching rate! Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see where he’s training and join him for a workout.

Download the entire training plan!

Download your FREE Kerrville Tri half distance triathlon training plan.
Download your FREE Kerrville Tri half distance triathlon training plan.
Download your FREE Kerrville Tri half distance triathlon training plan.

Meet City Limit Cycles

Introducing the Official Bike Mechanic for Kerrville Tri – James Balentine, owner of City Limit Cycles

Tune-up your bike and know how to change your own flat tire before race day. If you arrive in Kerrville and something occurred to your bike during transit, James and his City Limit Cycles van will be at your service during bike check-in on Friday and Saturday. James is also turning wrenches race morning (both days) should last-minute issues arise. He’ll set up shop at the southeast corner of T1 (off Guadalupe St.) Saturday and Sunday morning.

For more than two decades, James worked as a bike mechanic at bike shops, including a decade as Head Mechanic for Jack & Adam’s Bicycles in Austin. For the past 14 years, James has traveled the world volunteering as the mechanic at Triathlon World Championships for Team USA. He has also helped Olympians for Team USA Paratriathlon in Brazil and continues to volunteer for Team USA Paratriathletes.

James likes bikes. He likes to see and hear them running perfectly because he likes to see you riding them with a smile. His service experience is built around a lifetime passion for all things cycling. He’s been a pro racer, a pro mechanic, and pro-level bike geek.

Through it all, James brings a high level of professionalism and attention to detail. He has cared for all kinds of riders from recreational to pro and literally every kind of bike on the planet! Share on X
City Limit Cycles is James’ mobile bicycle repair company. Now a world-class bike mechanic comes to your door so you can focus on what you love most – more saddle time. We’re lucky to have someone of his caliber at Kerrville Tri for the entire weekend. Follow City Limit Cycles on Facebook. and follow his bike cleaning advice!