Welcome back everyone ,
It won't be very long before we will all be back out and enjoying the benefits of two wheel activities.
I would like to remind everyone about some do's and don't's when it comes to getting back on the bike early season.
First and foremost is the air temperature. The old wise tale from the cycling mentors of Europe is to coverup.
The March-April temps are full of moisture, even if the temps hit +20c, There's still a chill to the air.
Although it feels warm to the skin, when riding, the air is cool. Recommendation is: below +20c or 68F, it's leg and arm warmers. You gotta keep those knees covered.
When we begin to ride: Some of our members will have had the luxury of spending some time down south so they will be considerably fitter.
Some of you will have spent some time with spin classes or Zwift. This is all good, certainly better than doing nothing, but when it comes to getting outside, the wind is in your face.
Nothing can replace basic cycling foundation. This can only be achieved by spending time sitting in the saddle. Getting the Km's in. It's like money in the bank.
The vast majority of our membership has reached the age of maturity. ( lol ) Your body needs to slowly break into a sweat. Loosen up those ligaments and tendons in your knees, ankles and hips.
On your early rides it's quite common to experience fatigue in the trapizeus, deltoid and tricep areas. Remember you haven't been in this position for six months. The discomfort will only last 2-3 rides - you'll be fine.
Running parallel to this is the discomfort from sitting on those hard saddles "ouch" This soreness will dissipate within 3-4 consistent rides..
Most importantly for all of us and as they say in Italian: "piano , piano" Begin to ride softly and slowly. Restrict your gears to riding in the small chain ring. You won't hurt yourself by riding 70-80-90 RPM in the small chain ring.
You can strain your joints by giving it too hard with the big chain ring. If I'm asked to ride lead for any of the first couple of club rides, I fully intend to instruct the group to maintain a slower average speed and focus on pedaling comfortably. Once you have reached 1000+ KM's in your legs. You'll really be able to stretch and let it go.
Louann and I are looking forward to seeing you all again soon,
Cheers Gordon
Beverley Wright March 14, 2018 12:50 pm