Cycling training varies greatly across the disciplines. From the intense, anaerobically demanding speedway events to the ultra-endurance stage races, each cycling discipline requires a different training approach. Even within the same discipline, variations in distance will have a significant effect on a cyclist fitness regime.
Riding long-distance is one of the most pleasurable activities many people undertake. Although there can be difficult times, like hot days and necessary repairs, overall the trip will have wonderful memories that stay with you a lifetime.
However, on those lengthy days of long distance traveling, you will need to learn some tips to keep yourself amused, while being alert at the same time in tune with the road and being traffic conscious. When you know these tips you will not yearn for those breaks and you comfortably ride morning through noon or evening through night, besides you will admire and enjoy every blessed second of your riding.
Here are a few tips that can make your long distance cycling experience more enjoyable:
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The kind of bike you should invest in depends on what type of riding you will be doing. For long distances you want a light bike with thin wheels. Another thing to look at if you are planning to go long distance is your bicycle seat. A long distance bike should be more comfortable and it's a good idea to invest in a well padded seat. Finding a bike that is a good size for you is important if you are going to enjoy your ride. Make sure that your posture feels good while riding. When you are out there to buy or rent a bike for long distance rides, look for Touring Bikes.
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The clothes you wear also have a great impact on your experience. To choose comfortable yet fitting clothes makes a big difference. In this way you can move with ease and still have as little resistance from the wind as possible. Padded cycling shorts and cycling jersey will make a world of difference. Try and put on light colored clothes. If possible wear hand gloves also.
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Get together a kit with a pump, puncture repair kit, and tool kit just in case something should happen. Read all manuals and make sure you know how to use them. Prevent your bicycle from getting stolen by investing in a quality lock. Also, it's a good idea to park your bike at designated parking areas since a lone bike usually attracts thefts easier.
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If you're going on a long ride it's important to eat proper food a few hours before. Pasta, rice and bread are foods with a high amount of slow carbohydrates that help to stabilize your body's energy level. It can be helpful to bring some fast carbohydrates with you on the ride, such as granola bars, bananas, energy drinks etc. Make sure that you bring plenty of water with you for your ride. A good idea is to have a water bottle attached to the bike so you can easily have a drink at any time.
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Warm up and stretch for 10 minutes. Star jumps, jogging on the spot and various leg stretches work best. This step is to avoid cramps in the legs, especially thighs. You're better to start off slowly and go for short rides in the beginning, than to go for long rides straight away and end up with a sore bottom and aching muscles. Change ride position as often as you can to keep agile and flexible as well. Stop every 20 - 30 kilometers depending on your abilities to consume some water and food.
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Always bring a phone and a photo ID with you when you are going out. It's helpful if something unexpected happens. Check your bike on regular intervals for any problems. If something goes seriously wrong, use your cell phone to call for help.
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Finally, be friendly and courteous to other travelers you will encounter, but also be very careful. Biking is a very rewarding experience, but traveling alone can always be dangerous! If possible, bike with some friends or loved ones. It can be a great bonding experience.
And very importantly, enjoy experience of the long distance riding!
