Keeping a race journal

Why

Putting pen to paper (or finger to screen) helps you to think objectively about the race you have just completed. Ideally you'd use pen and paper as writing is more beneficial for learning, but I accept that it isn't always as convenient as using an app and you can often do more with electronic data. (I use a journal app.) The most important thing is to do it.

When

Do it in the evening following the race, or maybe the morning after if you need more time for your emotions to settle. Always do it before the next race though or you won't get the best from the exercise.

How

However and whenever you do it, it helps to use a standard structure for your entries. Try the following format.

Date
Event	If you're using an electronic journal, tag with the event name and season separately. This will allow you to easily review your season, or look back at a specific event when preparing in future years
Weather	Temperature, wind, rain/snow
Ground conditions	Firm, soft, muddy, stony, sandy, frozen, puddles, sticky
How the course changed	Make notes of how the course changed between practice and race
Tyre choice/pressures	What did you race with? Did you have to make changes mid-race?
Changes to setup	Did you change chain rings, cassette, or add a bottle cage?
Grid position	Where did you start from?
Result	Where did you finish (overall and in category)
How did it go?	How did the race develop? How did you find it? How do you feel about it? Did you learn anything?
What was positive?	Always identify at least one positive aspect
Logistical notes	Were there particular places that were good/bad to park? Are there shortcuts to get to the course that aren't on the map? Was it miles to the toilets? Is there anything useful to remember for next time?

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