Stages of pain on a sportive

phreak

I've ridden three sportives now and all three seem to have followed a similar pattern. The first third of the race is usually fine, no problems at all, the second third is usually piggish and very hard, whilst the final third seems ok again with a second wind found for the push home.

Does anyone else experience something similar?

Brian B

I usually go through a 'bad point' around the 70mile mark but then just like yourself get a second wind. This year though I have not been experiencing any bad points at all and just generally feel good right up to 100miles. It may be down to training harder this winter and I have shed a few more pounds to get as lean as possible.

dennisn

I think everyone has good and bad times during a long race or ride. I usually
find myself being something of a pedaling zombie at various times in a 100 miler.
Other times I may question my sanity as to why am I doing this. It's all part of cycling.
The longer the ride, the more different emotions seem to come and go. Hopefully
mostly good.

Dennis Noward

topcattim

When I first started riding 100 mile audaxes, I really struggled at the 60 to 80 mile mark, and then got a second wind for the final 20 miles. As the 60 mile mark approached, I used to get increasingly worried. After a few, though, it ceased to be a problem. Although I obviously can't prove this, I genuinely think that this wasn't actually to do with fitness, but more to do with my own state of mind. Once I learned how to deal with it psychologically, it was no longer an issue. In my case, where I had the base fitness, the thing that was missing was just knowing in my head that I was able to do it.

capilinconnemara

I have found it alot to do with the mind still doubting the body. I now in my 3rd season and the 100mls nolonger seems such a big figure.Also as I got stronger I was not on my own for long periods as I can hold wheels and this definitely helps. Still have bad days but not as often. The other thing is you learn how to feed yourself during events to keep the body and mind fueled.