Training for first organized ride

[BeeLady]

On the flier or website where you sign up for the ride, there should be an indication of how frequent the rest stops are, usually every 10 - 15 miles. I was told be an experienced cyclist that one of the keys to a long ride (not necessarily a fast one) is hydration/nutrition maintenance during the ride.

So, plan on stopping at every rest stop. If you aren't urinating by the second stop (hopefully by the first one as well) you need to take in more fluids. The rest stops should have extra sports drinks or water so you can re-fill your water bottle for your bike and drink some extra at the stop. Hopefully you can drink water/sports drink while you are pedaling, if not practice that before the ride. Staying hydrated is probably the most important thing you can do to improve your endurance in the hot, humid weather. And you will need some type of sports drink in addition to or in place of water.

Next thing, eat a small amount at each rest stop. Something that won't upset your stomach. Usually there will be bananas and oranges and maybe some PB & J half sandwiches. Nibble at every stop.

Doing a few gentle stretches at each stop is a good idea as well. Try to have your stops last 10 minutes or less. Take more time if you need to, but try to get the drinking, nibbling, stretching and peeing done in a timely manner.

If you have comfortable riding shorts and remember to change your hand position while riding, maybe move your toes around inside your shoes, and change where you are sitting on your seat every few miles, you should do fine.