Nearly a month of riding...

[femalefemur]

Ok so its been about a month since I've purchased my 1st roadbike. I can officially say that I am HOOKED! I'm a complete novice & am looking for more info....

I've been riding about 3-4 times a week for an hour or two. (No computer yet, but I'm feeling like this is probably a purchase worth investing in)??

My routine ride is flat with a nice mixture of hills. I've been consistant with repeating the same flat to hilly areas and I've noticed with consistency & being patient with myself and what I can handle, I've been able to take the same course easier, each time I ride it.

I live in San Francisco. I eventually want to work my way to riding through Ocean beach area up to the Presidio and over the Golden Gate. The Presido seems to have this really steep & steady climb for about a few miles or so. I want to build up to riding it. But I must admit, knowing that the slight inclines leading to this area- including the steeper climb through it, is doing a number on my psyche. Anyone familiar with this area? I did take a test ride to get there through the golf park near the De Young, pooped out- and got as far as that.

Any recommendations on how to build endurance in general? I dont want to over exhaust my muscles but at the same time I want to be able to build my endurance. I'm a total newbie, so I really dont know where to start other than what my body tells me what it can handle. Also any recommendations on websites or books that can teach me about training for endurance?

[Zen]

It's late and I should get to bed but this should get you started.

[bacarver]

There are a variety of ways to learn how to be a better rider. I learned volumes (when I started riding in the mid-80's) from a partner who spent hours riding with me and giving me tips. I also lived next to the Major Taylor Velodrome in Indy at the time. I rode with a club. I did a little racing. There are books at the library and the bookstores of course. A helpful employee at a bike shop can answer questions.
I depend on my cateye and heart rate monitor. I like to see my numbers as I ride.
I challenge myself with hills when I think I have enough base miles in. I tell myself that I'll do my best to ride up the hill, but walking isn't a crime.
Talk to people. They'll share good ideas.
Listen to your body.
Keep a ride journal to track progress.
Have a safe, fun time!
Barb