Day 2

[allismarie]

Well, I got back out there yesterday. It wasn't frought with problems like Day 1 (gear panic, chain loss, break disengagment). It was a good ride, I wa still sore from Tuesday's ride, but it was bearable. I only went about 20 minutes before I wore myself out again. I know it's not much, but I feel pretty good about it. I'm really hoping to continue building some endurance. I can deal with the sore sit bones, it's not excruciating, and knowing that it is supposed to be that way (at least for a while) helps.

Do you normally eat anything before you go on a ride? I got home from the ride and started doing stuff around the house and felt light headed. I ate a banana and that seemed to help.

[redrhodie]

Yes, I eat before, and some carbs right away after. A banana is perfect, what I usually eat right when I get to work.

I remember feeling like my legs were made of jelly after my first few bike rides. That will go away. You'll get stronger and build endurance with every ride. The sitbone pain is normal, too. You're doing great!

[indigoiis]

I remember my first longest ride (15 miles, shop ride) I didn't eat beforehand and came home, made a four egg omelette with cheese, three pieces of toast, and a big iced coffee and downed it standing up. I then went over to the couch and fell into a deep sleep for the next 2 hours.

Now I eat beforehand. A piece of bread with a swab of peanut butter, folded over. Or a bowl of cereal (but warning: most people can't have milk in their stomachs on a ride - it doesn't bother me but it may you.) When I get in to work I have a banana or a pop tart and drink about 2 litres of water until I go home.

[allismarie]

Thats good info. The peanut butter on bread sounds like a good snack prior. I think I'll be able to handle milk on my stomach. I drink it a lot.

Thanks for the pointers! I'll report back after my next ride. I may try to cross a busy street this weekend. It's calmer on the weekend.