Cycling is not only a fun and enjoyable activity, but it also comes with a wide array of benefits for both your physical and mental health. For beginners looking to conquer a 100 km distance, cycling can be a great way to build endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Training tips specifically tailored for cycling a 100 km distance can help you prepare both physically and mentally for the challenge ahead.
I have been a recreational cyclist for more than 10 years and in that period, i have learnt a lot and have been able to do lots of research and gained enough experience during this period. There is a lot of information online about cycling and I have been able to actualize so many of them to come up with the information contained in this book.
I got attached to a bike when I was very young and as with almost every child, the thrill of moving with speed from one point to another fascinated me all my life to this point. The feeling of strong wind hitting my skin as I increase my speed is just out of this world. In my younger years, I could ride a bike almost the whole day and never actually got tired of it.
I became a serious recreational rider in my adult years after I realized I could explore many places on a bike and I had also just joined a cycling team that really challenged me to take it up seriously. I began with short rides in the group and easily increased my mileage as time went on. I realized that I could actually cycle for long and subsequently cover a lot of mileage.
My first attempt to cycle 100km happened some years back when I decided to ride from Nairobi to Nakuru, approximately 160km long. It was a very difficult experience because I did very little preparations for the ride. I hadn’t done very comprehensive research which led to a very difficult ride that I still remember to date.
I was so tired at the end of the ride that it took me almost 5 days to recover from the whole ordeal. Basically, I just took my bike, some water and just went. The journey was so difficult that at one point while coming back using the same route, I couldn’t cycle anymore, my energy levels were at zero and even breathing was a problem. I simply locked the bike somewhere next to a tree and slept on grass for two hours straight just next to the road. This really messed up with my time. I reached home almost at midnight and was drained physically and mentally.
In summary, I realized it is very important to prepare and prepare well way before such an undertaking. It may even be just 50km you want to attempt; still, it is very important to prepare both your body and mind for the task ahead.
Cycling can be so much fun and fulfilling only if you observe the various other factors that go with it including strength training, yoga, regular cycling training among other things. The information in this book will help you navigate this journey with ease and enjoy every moment you step out there and ride your bike as should be.
Most importantly, enjoy yourself and ride safe.
