Life, College, and Fitness…

December 16th, 2009 • Comments Cycling/Fitness, Personal, Racing Update
Tags: College, Cycling/Fitness, Johns Hopkins University, Life, motocross

I know I have been terrible as far as posting goes, and I am sorry for this. I have been busy and more important things have taken over writing. I can’t promise that I will continue to post frequently after today, but I do want to just post a little update on what I’ve been up to the past couple of weeks months.

College – Johns Hopkins Class of 2014

After much work on my application, essays, and recommendations, I was finally notified, at 7:02 PM on Dec. 15, 2009 via email, that I have been accepted into Johns Hopkins University as a member of the class of 2014.

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My First Double Century

August 12th, 2009 • Comments Cycling/Fitness
Tags: Connecticut, cycling, Maine, Thread City Cyclers, training

A blurry shot of the 200 mile group. I am second from the left in a borrowed vest and arm warmers (thanks John!)

On Saturday, August 8th, I completed my first double century (200 miles) bike ride with a small group of Thread City Cyclers. The ride took us from Willington, CT to Portland, ME. The route had been ridden multiple times by Garth Bean, and he was gracious enough to let us tag along this time around.

All in all, I must say it was an incredible experience. It took an indescribable amount of physical and mental endurance, and it is definitely an athletic achievement I am glad to have completed.

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Phil Keoghan of the Amazing Race Rides Across America

April 23rd, 2009 • Comments Cycling/Fitness
Tags: America, Cycling/Fitness, Multiple Sclerosis, Now One Square Meal, Phil Keoghan, The Amazing Race, Tour de France, Tour Down Under, Tour of California

There's the Tour de France, Tour of California, and even the Tour Down Under. But how about the Tour of America? While it hasn't happened yet (although it's in the works for 2009), Phil Keoghan, host of The Amazing Race has decided to make his very own Tour of America as he makes a 42 day long trek across America, from Los Angeles to New York.

While the official purpose of this ride is to raise money and spread awareness for Multiple Sclerosis, his ride is also sending another message – one of leading a healthy life supplemented by exercise and good nutrition.

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Music Which Gets Me Pumped to Ride

April 19th, 2009 • Comments Cycling/Fitness, Motocross Tips
Tags: Clipse, cycling, Cycling/Fitness, Disturbed, Immortal Technique, Lil Wayne, motivation, motocross, music, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Scary Kids Scaring Kids, System of a Down

Music is a great motivator for cycling and motocross. Photos by Jonathan Shield and Paul Buckley

Both motocross and cycling are very intense adrenaline pumping sports. As a result, music is a great motivational factor for both activities. While “good” music is obviously a very subjective thing, everyone is always looking for good music, and because of this, my favorite motivational music for riding is listed below. Feel free to check out the artists and leave your comments/recomendations at the end of the article.
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What is Your Favorite Electrolyte Replacement Drink for Cycling?

March 20th, 2009 • Comments Cycling/Fitness
Tags: Accelerade, ClifBar, cycling, Cycling/Fitness, Cyomax, electrolytes, Heed, MotorTabs, training

Electrolyte Replacement Drinks are crucial to cycling success. Photo by BurningKarma.

Nutrition is a huge part of cycling. Without proper nutrition, you will be unable to maintain a steady pace and your performance will be much poorer than what it should be. One of the most important parts of your nutritional plan is the electrolyte replacement drink you consume during your rides.

The world of electrolyte replacement drinks is very big, and there are a multitude of options on the market. Most riders have favorites which they prefer to drink. However, as a relatively new cyclist, I am still trying to find my favorite brand of electrolyte replacement drink.

As a result, I’ve turned to you guys, the loyal readers of MikeMartinRacing.com. What are your favorite electrolyte replacement drinks? I know some are better than others, and rather than constantly change my program trying to find the best brand, I’m asking you what yours is. Your responses will greatly impact my choice of electrolyte replacement drink heading into the near future, so don’t forget to leave your reply in the comments.
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