Urban Dictionary's definition: A grueling physical workout intended to make you a better athlete. Usually done at home or the gym, and we call that place the "pain cave."
How many times have people asked me about how to Time Trial, well it starts right here.
The second stop, is the pain cave. Oh the pain cave. It is a dark and sometimes scary place, but do not be afraid of the darkness, the light is there. A good TT, you start at the opening of the cave and go deep enough that the light is barely visible. If the light goes out, you crash into the wall, if the light is too bright, well, welcome to recreational riding.
Training versus Racing
The only time you should be lights out in the cave is racing. If the lights go out training, well, find a new coach. You need to train hard, but you have to know your limits, how far you can push your limits and come out stronger. Training up to the cave and maybe putting a foot in, is ok, both for you Physically and Mentally, but going in too deep and too often leads to Physical and Mental breakdown.
The Pain Cave is a good thing, don't be afraid, train hard, be smart, and remember if you are having a bad day, there is someone having a worse day.
One acknowledgement to my buddy, who would not want to be mentioned. He is going through his own personal pain cave right now. I only bring this up, because of the original conversation about the pain cave. Get better soon. Trainhard4life, Mike
