Training advice

[the_lone_wolf]

Hi all, beginner getting back into cycling after a several year break here, currently cycling to work when I can in 4x 2mile stretches per day

Just entered the 14 Hills Killer on the IOW, going to be doing it with a friend and it'll be the first event of it's kind I've done

http://www.sunseaandcycling.com/hills-killer-infor...

If I remember it's about 55 miles of orienteering and riding

Any advice received gratefully, I'm not in any danger of being mistaken for the blob but I'm not a toned athlete either

[neilski]

At the risk of stating the obvious, I'd get out there and ride up some hills. Lots & lots of hills.

[the_lone_wolf]

neilski said:

At the risk of stating the obvious, I'd get out there and ride up some hills. Lots & lots of hills.

That's so crazy it just might work...

Definitely need to get out in the few weekends I have and try some extended uphill riding...

I assume the best way to train for <insert riding type> is to go out and do more of <insert riding type>

?

[mchammer89]

Interval training mixed with a few long distance rides is your best bet. Hills make for great interval training, working your ass off getting up it, then oasting back down, and repeat. Also make sure to get some steady miles in as this will up your base fitness. Get out riding as much as you can basically.

[the_lone_wolf]

Thanks - I did just over 14 miles on the type of terrain we'll be on on Saturday, didn't push it, just rode steady and non-stop it took about an hour, tbh after a 15 minute break at the other end I could have happily turned around and ridden home, and I haven't felt any after effects - I think I may be fitter than I thought!!

But still, plenty of opportunities to get out and get training, I'd like to get more hills in simply because I enjoy that type of riding

Submitted my entry form, so no turning back now...

[mrandy]

just go out and ride your bike,you dont need heart rate monitors or intveral training,just ride your bike and you will get fit.

[the_lone_wolf]

Well, I've been riding when I've got the chance, went out yesterday for 25m over constant downs, bloody nora it's going to be a rough 50m if it's all the same as that!!

[anonymous-user]

keep changing your route or you body will get used to a set route and you wont improve.

interval training is a must, you need to get your body used to the extra effort required on climbs and then reduce its natural desire to create lactic acid so when you can, keep the cadence up on the flats/recovery, always aim for a constant cadence of 90 rpm which has been proven to be the most efficient

use your gears effectively, see above, you have 20 odd gears for a reason. dont always opt for granny at the start of a climb but work your way up to it.