I have a requirement to do a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise in the HR Zone per day. Generally I try to do at least 10 miles per day on the bike. Every other day I also hit the weight machine using the treadmill for a warmup and cool down.

Since I have a job, I often run out of time when riding. Sometimes I accommodate this by riding a second time after work or in the evening.

In virtually every case, I start out with no clear idea of the type or length of my ride. This is particularly true of weekend rides. After 15 to 20 minutes in the saddle, I get in the groove and decide what the day's ride will be. Repeat the hills and grades. Ride for a full hour. Do intervals. Spin for an hour. Ride somewhere new. Try for a high average speed. Or, just get the heart rate up a bit and tour. Maybe I'll decide to go see someone or head for a coffee shop several miles away. Usually the only thing I know when I start out is that I am going to spend at least 30 minutes in the aerobic zone.

Virtually every ride I take is a pleasure ride. Yet, many seem to be training rides even though there is nothing in particular for which I am training. I find I continue to get smaller and stronger and my blood sugar is under tight control. I look and feel better. My success pleases only me.

I intend neither to catch nor drop anyone. Nor is there any podium stuff in my forseeable future. During 2003 I intend to ride 100 miles in a single day. Maybe I'll do it with a friend. Perhaps I'll be alone. It is possible, I suppose that it will be an organized century ride. Could be I'll decide to do my normal 10 mile ride 10 times.

I really enjoy riding my bicycles even when it hurts or is uncomfortable, I usually end a ride feeling as though, "I could've done a couple more miles."