Base Miles

[ATL Laura]

Wow…I really did leave out a lot of information in my post

This is my second year of riding. Last year I did 2 centuries, but didn’t even think about training until I had at least 2 months of consistent riding behind me, probably around 400 miles. The June century is relatively easy as far as terrain goes, but my endurance really needs some work.

Was I aerobically active during the fall and winter? If sitting at the bar drinking beer and watching football is aerobic, then yes!

Since I haven't been keeping up with my fitness during the winter, I’m afraid of jumping back into intense cycling. I guess I'm a little aprehensive about taking on this "10 weeks from 0 to 100" challenge.

I am super competitive with myself, so there is also the mental aspect of not living up to my own expectations…I need to learn how to turn that down a notch or two.

Tulip - I would love to commute by bike, but Atlanta is just too scary, I only feel safe riding on the street with groups.

[tulip]

I'm impressed that you are doing a century this year! If you start out gradually, you won't be going from 0-100. You'll be going from 0-5, and 5-10, and 10-20, and 20-30...

I won't try to convince you about commuting. I'll just say that there are ways to make it work. I lived in and around Washington, DC for many years and found a way to do it. But if you live in the out suburbs, it's harder to find alternative routes that have fewer cars, but partway commutes are certainly worthwhile.

Get on your bike, starting now, and just ride a little bit every day, or every other day. Use your bike for errands where and when you can. Start taking spinning classes if that's more your style. Increase to longer rides on the weekends. Next winter, stay on your bike (or in the pool, or just move) and it will be easier. It's always easier to maintain fitness than to restart it every year.

Don't wait! Biking is fun!

[SouthernBelle]

There are several 8 week training programs on line. That is what I used last year and it was plenty of time.