Another simple one this, but very effective all the same.

Next time you’re hammering all out, wipe that tortured grimace off your face and just resume your normal relaxed ugliness.

As you concentrate on relaxing your face you’ll also relax neck and shoulder muscles and invoke a much more relaxed breathing rhythm, rather than dragging air in through a gargoyles gob.

As a result of adrenaline boost your body will often resort to shallow panic breaths using only lungs / ribcage when really pushed hard. To Increase your oxygen intake (and therefore work far more efficiently) remember to breathe with your stomach cavity / diaphragm as well. It’ll nearly double your oxygen uptake per breath.

Even if you’re going on a gentle or technical ride rather than a flat out fest, concentrate on keeping your breathing smooth and relaxed rather than holding your breath at key moments. Not only will lack of oxygen cause panic as the “drowning” reflex kicks in, but steady relaxed breathing will keep you relaxed and flowing on the bike.

That’s all for now folks, but always remember even if you’re having a really bad ride this vegetable is “rooting” for you – I’ll get me jacket…….