In training for charity event - what do I need to watch for?

AndyMark

Hi All.
I'm a summer cyclist who has enlisted into a charity event.!

This means instead of riding my usual 15 miles every other day, I'll be riding 70 miles for 3 consecutive days (at least these will be flat, as opposed to climbing the Pennines!!)

What things do I need to watch out for ? I've bought a pair of padded shorts, but what else can I use / attach that will be useful.

Cheers - Andy

rokkala

Chamois cream, food to eat on the go!

DanEvs

Energy gel's and some deep heat (but don't confuse the two whatever you do).

Edit: Even worse don't confuse the deep heat with your chamois creme! :shock: :evil:

simon_e

There should be plenty of posts about this sort of thing - try the Search facility. As well as spare shorts etc and some off-bike clothing, remember inner tubes and a good selection of tools. If you're sure you will be riding alongside others you can share them between you. Is your bike in good condition - tyres, brake pads, gears adjusted etc?

Fit two bottle cages (and preferably 750ml bottles) as you'll need to drink plenty. What you choose depends on your preferences. Some people like energy powders like High5, SiS and Torq while others make their own or use fruit juice & water, adding an electrolyte tablet on warmer days.

While bananas, flapjack, bars and so on are good you'll probably get fed up of sweet, calorie-dense food. Pack some savoury snacks too, though I'd avoid anything meat-based or anything high in fat while riding as you may struggle to digest it.

There is plenty of sensible info in the Bikeradar Fitness articles (including nutrition, training, technique). While training increase the distances gradually and give yourself time in between to recover.