ricadoo

As some of you know I'm kind-of new to cycling and I want to really get into cycling for 2010. I'm wondering what kind of training programmes you guys use or if you have any? Do you go to the gym often? Ans is there any websites that you can download Cycling specific training regimes?

Thanks,
Ricky

ericm979

If you're new, just go riding. Build up the distance you can do, (no more than 10% a week is the rule of thumb), and see if you can get in more riding during the week. But other than that, have fun. Go explore. Go ride different stuff.

As a new rider, just riding around will work pretty well for training. And you need a base to do more organized training from.

Save making a chore of it for when you decide to ride a century or race.

ricadoo

thanks for the fast reply eric, makes sense really - what you said. and one more thing should i get a computer too?

Nick29

I agree with ericm. As a beginner the best thing you can do is ride more. Just keep going farther and faster and you'll improve. Just make sure you have enough water and calories (people exaggerate the importance of where those calories come from too IMO) during your rides and you'll be fine.

It also helps to find a group to ride with, especially one where you have to work to keep up (but aren't getting completely dropped every ride).

rufvelo

It is training 'regimen', regimes are what Americans like to change whether invited to or not

ricadoo, you hail from the land of Sean Kelly and Stephen Roche...that is an advantage. Can't tell how young you are and if you're interested in riding or racing. Maybe you'll find out what your goals are only after you get some mileage in. As others have suggested, increasing mileage and speed in relatively safe road conditions is best approach. Gym doesn't do much for you unless you need to rotate exercise for some extra cardio especially in bad weather or are very specifically targeting track racing...although just bulking up doesn't help on track either. One of the best resources is a local cycling shop that organizes group rides, which will give you experience, and motivation.