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Natalie Barnard's Training Update From France

19/11/2009

Hey!
 
I have arrived safely in Toulon, South of France near Marseille, where i am spending a week with the former manager of my first French Team, Cesson, and his wife who i'll be training mostly with. (Cesson was also the team of Jodie Stimpson in 2009).
 
Upon my arrival, I unpacked my Specialized 'S-Works', changed and went for a 45min run around the pretty little woodland area just outside the apartment. Not too long afterwards it was off to the pool for a short swim followed randomly by an indoor aqua cycle turbo session! Behold the new form of turbo training!! Stationary spin bikes are tough enough then add water resistance you have yourself a whole new form of fitness training!! Although I guess its a plus for when you begin to have a sweat-on!
 
This morning, we went for a 2hr ride up and around the mountain, about an 8km climb, which seems pretty weak until you include tight and steep hair-pins along the way! The views, though, are priceless here. It really sets apart what we have in mostparts of England both in terms of the scenery, the climbs, and more importantly the weather!! It's set to reach 20degrees at lunchtime.
 
There was no real reasoning for my decision to come out for a week here, more the fact that it is an opportunity and experience, the flight is relatively cheap this time of year, and the added bonus of free accommodation and the beauty of the area and the weather!
 
There are many opportunities to come out to France throughout the year, especially popular at the start of the tri season and the summer months. It is fast becoming a popular destination for banking some good, solid hours on the bike and also great weather and food! Venues suchs as Les Sables are offering many people throughout the year the opportunity to come and use their apartments for training or for holiday excursions/tours. I can see why, it is a no-brainer. It has practically everything you would want in a training holiday or camp to gain the most from the time spent out there at reason prices!
 
For now i'm off for a spot of lunch, recovery, then onto the pool!

Natalie  Barnard