Practice Makes Perfect? 🚴♀️
Practice makes perfect, it is often said; whether you’re learning ballet; taking up the piano; or preparing for RAGBRAI.
This video, at about 08:30 minutes, talks about practicing for the event. Have at least 500 miles under your belt for that year, before RAGBRAI? For 2024, I certainly have that, and then some.
And a ride of 50 miles without feeling totally exhausted at the end? You can check that off the list, too. What that video doesn’t seem to mention is preparation for hills. That will take work especially meant to improve my strength (aka force). Practice makes perfect!
OK, Let's Practice! ⛭
So OK, let’s practice! The official RAGBRAI site offers training advice to prospective riders; and I see that how-fast-must-I-ride is at the top of the list.
There’s no set speed requirement; but as a flatlander I must always keep in mind RAGBRAI’s hills. My speed on flat ground will NOT be my speed while climbing. Tackling hills in the heat will increase my need for hydration, too.
Resting during training rides? That’s OK; although I’ve always tried to keep stops to a minimum. I also work to minimize coasting. My constant aim is to build my endurance.
As to length of training rides, I’m working to increase my distance on weekday rides. However, I’m aware that increasing my distances won’t necessarily build the strength I’ll need for getting up hills; and RAGBRAI means repeated hills.
OK, let’s practice! The prospect of climbing is why I work on very hard efforts once or twice a week!
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ABOUT ME
I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story.
I live in New Orleans; and retired in January 2023. More time for cycling!
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DISCLAIMER
I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.
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