Training & Nutrition - How far do you ride?

I am just starting out and trying to figure some things out. I usally run 15k's but have roled my ankle again. So I have taken up Cycling instead.

Just wondering how far people ride and on what basics?

Also how far would you recommend to start with??


Locker

Start gradually and build your distance up over time. That's what I did. I generally do 300km+/week at the moment because that's sometimes all I get time to do. I don't actually try to measure it, I just ride whenever I can and that seems to be what I get. It's the sort of addiction that one just can't be weened off easily.

Chris

Hmmm, well I think that I am going to start riding to work and that's around 45Km each way. Think that I will be able to do It??


Locker

Locker,
45 km each way sounds like you may be doing too much too soon.
I ride 150+ miles a week (commuting and weekend riding), but I've been riding for 2-1/2 years.
Even though I rode a lot before I started commuting I had to build up to my commute of 14 miles each way.
In the beginning you may want to ride part way and drive part way.
You may also want to start out riding 2 or 3 days a week and increase gradually.
And since you're new to cycling, I'd recommend reading some books on cycling, training, diet, etc.

Of course there are lots of experts here who can give you advice on almost cycling topic.

Good luck and let us know how things go. :thumbup:

It all depends on the bike and the terrain. I am assuming that you are aerobically prepared. I often do 75 km rides after work, and during the summer manage about 300km a week.

Hey locker,

If you're coming to cycling from the world of running, the rule of thumb that I use is 7 miles of (road bike) cycling is roughly equivalent to 1 mile of running (conversion to metric is left as an exercise for the reader). And, in general, require about twice as much time. It's a different kind of work out than running. Cyclists don't "hit the wall," we "bonk." And that only happens if we fail to eat and drink enough during a long ride. Also, it's not nearly as punishing, physically, in my opinion. On the other hand, runners don't get saddle sores.

If you're already a runner, you're probably in fine cardio shape, but allow some time and practice for leg and lower back muscles to come around.

Enjoy!

Originally posted by locker
Hmmm, well I think that I am going to start riding to work and that's around 45Km each way. Think that I will be able to do It??


In all seriousness, I would start of by maybe doing that a couple of days a week and gradually build it up. If you're new to the sport, recovery between rides might take a little longer at first.

Chris

I think that I will drive to work, leave my car there and ride back and then ride to work the next day and drive back to start with.


Locker

10 miles per day 5 times per week 50 miles 1 day per week