Superfit? 🏋🏻
You don’t have to be superfit to enjoy cycling. I you did, who would have the gumption to even try? Superfitness isn’t needed even for long, multi-day events. That’s lucky for me, as lifting weights isn’t my thing. And I detest gyms.
“Not superfit”, however, doesn’t mean you don’t need to be fit if you want to ride a century; or tackle RAGBRAI. You do. You just don’t need to be of pro tour caliber.
Getting Fit 🚴♀️
Getting fit can take time; so don’t wait to start working on it until your event is next week. Over the years, I’ve read many a website and book about century prep; or indeed, just getting started on a bike.
If you’ve never sat on a bicycle saddle before, the advice is (naturally) to start slow and easy. Take short rides of a few miles; and gradually increase your distance.
What about speed? As I discovered when I was riding the trike, speed takes care of itself up to a certain point; but eventually you’ll plateau. That’s when it’s time to start intensity work; namely, short, hard efforts. Start with 10 seconds if that’s all you can manage; and work up.
It’s normal to feel stiff/sore “in the back” when you first start on two wheels; but this discomfort fades away with regular riding. Sore leg muscles in those early days are normal, too; but listen to your body. If something actually hurts, back off for a day or two.
The Big One 💯
How long does it take to get in shape for a 100-miler? It’s rather difficult for me to say. Last year I lost considerable riding time because of medical issues; and it’s only in the past few weeks that I’m getting fit again; that is, back to normal mileage. It’s late March now; can I be ready for a century by early June?
Training plans such as this one can help you prepare; but I’m always falling short on the hard-effort rides! You need some high-intensity work to prepare you to fight against headwinds on the day of the big one!
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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!
Website designed by Cecile Levert
© This website is the property of its author.
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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