Anyone Else Go Through This

[Rosemarie]

Thanks,
Riding has allowed me to release some of my excess nervousness. I guess like all of us wish I was 20 years younger!

[DeniseGoldberg]

I suspect that it's not perimenopause but overtraining, as CorsairMac suggested. (And by the way, none of the phases of menopause effected me the way you describe.) It sounds like you're riding really hard to get ready for multiple long distance events. And while I do agree with you that you'll enjoy the events (and be able to finish them) if you're in great shape, I also believe that sometimes you have to be nice to yourself. And you need to listen to your body too.

Some time off the bike may be helpful. Maybe a few days of walking would help. Or maybe riding with a different purpose for a bit would help. Instead of riding and concentrating on training for your event, use your bike as a way to get somewhere - the beach, a park, a favorite ice cream place, anywhere. Ride at an easy pace, look around, enjoy your surroundeings. Take a camera with you, and stop to take pictures.... I don't know if these suggestions will help you, but I know that it helps me when I give myself permission to just enjoy wandering on my bike as opposed to training for a future ride. (Don't get me wrong, I do my share of that too, but easy rides are important too!)

--- Denise

[Rosemarie]

Thanks Denise!
I did just that this afternoon! I'm smiling again. I guess I'm getting nervous again as the ride gets closer. It's not the mileage, it's GREAT fun my fear is getting lost in the woods.