Cycling advise

Ree_Chatelain

I am planning to do a long bike ride Saturday, long for me anyway. The route I have is going to be 14 miles round trip. Does anyone have any words of wisdom on what I should expect or tips? You know things like hey don't forget a water..

loseatonlady

Biking shorts are helpful & pack some kind of protein packed snack - I love taking almonds as a bike riding snack!

Hanna82

you can do 14 miles easy. the biggest tip i can give you is to remember that the longer you ride the easier it gets. i always start out feeling like the first incline will kill me but by the time the next one hits your body will have started releasing all those awesome enzymes that help cut the pain.

Starkle09

just went on my first bike ride in a really long time and boy i was wishing that i had a seat cushion!

TracyChisholm

Hey Ree,

I think it is great that you are doing this. I love cycling, but have been having difficulty getting back to working out. I am trying though.

OK, so dont forget water, lol. lots. Take extra or a bigger container if you can. Also, take MP3 player, so that when you have reached a certain level of "bordum" you can keep the momentum going with your favorite *kitten* kicking workout tunes. . That always works for me.


Also, know that at the end of it, you will have no regrets. You dont need advice, you dont need the dependence of this forum, because you already have it in you. Go for it, and I would love to hear how it went.

Another must, do not over eat, or eat anything too much or heavy before you work out. Eat foods filled with energy, like nuts! Peanutbutter, honey, half a banana and if u want a few raisins all on a english muffin or toast is a great, i mean really GREAT source of energy, good carbs and protein.

Take care girl!
Go for it, you got this!

Trix

kayemme

if you're riding streets (not dedicated bike path) i would suggest wearing a whistle. it helps alert cars to your presence. also wear bright clothing. the best thing you can do is keep yourself visible at all times

keep it fun! 14 miles is a good, fun ride!

goldbike

Spare tire and/or patch kit, water, pump. You don't want to be walking home 7 miles if you get a flat at the midpoint. Otherwise cell phone to have someone pick you up.

bbbbb33333

Spare tire and/or patch kit, water, pump. You don't want to be walking home 7 miles if you get a flat at the midpoint. Otherwise cell phone to have someone pick you up.

Ditto. I have a car bike rack and if I flat, I call spouse for a pick up.

Ree_Chatelain

Thank ya'll so much. The route should be easy no hills in southern Louisiana. Plus i'm shooting for a morning ride so there shouldn't be much traffic. I'll have my little boy strapped in the baby seat and we are going helmet shopping thursday after work. We are going to stop at a park at he half way point for a little play time.

Bryce58

Sun glasses, sun screen exposed arms, neck, etc; don't strain - use gears to allow peddling faster rather than straining knees; it's not a race, go slow and enjoy yourselves.

javaruck

I think everyone gave you some pretty solid advice. One exception, if your going to be on streets, ditch the mp3 player - it's much safer to hear what is coming behind you.

I don't know what kind of bike you have but if it is a road bike with the traditional road style seat, splurge for a really good pair of bike shorts. Your tush will be ever so greatful!

I just put my tri bike in storage and got my road bike all tuned up and ready to ride when I get back home this weekend. I'm pretty jazzed about getting back out myself. Enjoy your ride!