One way to keep your motivation and skills up during the off-season is to find a regular group you can join. A good group ride should offer both quality training and good social riding. We all know that not every group ride is the same so it is important that you find one that suits you and your training goals. Start by asking the following questions.
How much attention you pay to your recovery will determine how fast you progress in your training. Many things happen to your body during training. Vital fluids, energy stores, muscles proteins and other nutrients are depleted, cells and muscle tissue are damaged and the immune system is stressed. Once you climb off your first priority must be your recovery so you can return to training as quickly as possible fully prepared to do the work.