*Safety Quiz* This week, for our safety message, I present a 1 question, multiple-choice quiz: Question 1. Assume that you are a hypothetical cyclist who rides 4X per week. What single intervention will reduce your accident risk by 25%? a. Wear bright clothing b. Use a front and back flashing light c. Use a mirror and/or radar d. Always stay alert e. Obey all traffic laws f. All of the above g. None of the above This is a trick question. While all choices a-e above are advisable practices, the correct answer is to cut back rides to 3X per week and incorporate cross-training into your regimen. Doing this will reduce your risk exposure by 25% and will likely improve the efficiency and safety of your cycling. I have attached links to several articles below that discuss the fitness benefits of cross training and suggest types of cross training that are beneficial. Benefits of Cross-training: 1. Reduce cycling overuse injuries and muscle imbalances 2. Improve aerobic efficiency 3. Reduce mental fatigue and motivational issues by “mixing it up”. 4. Improve VO2 max and other parameters of fitness by using different muscle groups 5. Reduced cycling risk due to less time on the road The attached articles have suggestions for cross training including: Running, swimming, Pilates, Yoga, strength training. One article in particular suggested to do occasional indoor trainer rides in lieu of road rides, as a form of cross training. Doing so is especially worthwhile when the weather is not good. Plus, an indoor trainer ride is more flexible and enables more specific training goals like intervals, climbing, sprints, or just wind-down rides in a safer and more controlled environment (see final link below for benefits of occasional trainer rides) compared to a road ride. So, while the correct answer to the quiz might seem a bit facetious, cross-training will improve cycling fitness with a huge associated safety benefit. https://cyclingcoachai.com/cross-training-for-cyclists/ https://join.cc/cycling-tips/cross-training-for-cyclists https://www.bikeradar.com/advice/fitness-and-training/cross-training https://www.bikeradar.com/advice/fitness-and-training /detraining-how-quickly-do-you-lose-fitness https://join.cc/cycling-tips/no-more-motivation-gaps-how-to-actually-enjoy-i... -- Stephen Levinson