how hard IS a century?

[sundial]

I so want to get to the point to be able to do this someday. I just think a lot of weight has to come off first.

Don't let your weight stop you from training for a century. You would be amazed how many miles you'll log in a matter of weeks. Riding is such a release for me, a real stress buster. I really enjoy starting the day with a good ride. It keeps me balanced and prepared for the demands of the day.

[dex]

Don't let your weight stop you from training for a century.

I second this. I took all 225 lbs of me (on my 5'4"ish body) on a 2-day, 200 mile ride last month after about three and a half months of riding. If *I* managed it, I'm pretty sure anybody can.

And I'm now completely addicted to long distances. One day, I hope to get addicted to hill climbing...erm, that day may be a long ways off.

[wiseowl]

I have to say that "training" for something is getting my butt out there more religiously than before, and those stubborn 20 lbs I need to lose are finally starting to budge. I have seen threads from a lot of larger riders that have completed very impressive distances- maybe not at top speed, but with relative comfort.

I am glad for all the hydration pack info- I need to get one for mtn bike riding, and hadn't even considered taking one on the road. The ride I am considering has stops at 10, 25, and every 25 after- which seems fairly spaced out.