help me get back into the saddle!

[Tri Girl]

GLC - ...if I remember right, you are a damned good rider and dedicated when you put your mind to it.
You can do it - just DO it!

Yeah, what she said.


I won't commute anymore because of the darkness and cold, but this winter I'm vowing to do something different. I put my bike on the trainer and it's going to stay there and get used all winter (unlike the last 2 winters where I rode my bike about 2 times a month).
So far I've ridden my trainer every night for a week. Only 30 min. each time, but 30 min. a day is more than I've ever done in the winter. I watch tv and throw in intervals during the commercials. 30 min. is about all I can handle on the trainer before parts start really complaining, but it's a start. Maybe if you did that then when the days get longer you'll be raring to go outside for your commute.

Don't worry- winter blahs are normal. And you've got one heck of a commute there- even with the 8 mile drive to knock some of it off. When it lightens up I know you'll be out there again like you were. Don't be hard on yourself.

[Biciclista]

Motivation really has to come from inside of you.
What motivates me to ride is when I get to work and see how nice a day it's going to be... and I drove. So the next day it's nice i get on my bike.
Other motivators: ice on my windshield, waistline, other people on THEIR bikes.
Why don't you list what DOES motivate you and let that get you going?

[GLC1968]

Thanks you guys. Your comments truly help!

Admittedly, I'd rather ride in the cold and dark (and rain) then get on a trainer. I've tried - and I really hate it. I will do step aerobics videos or run on the treadmill for cardio before I'll suffer on the trainer.

I made a commitment to a few other women I know in terms of fitness, and knowing that I have to report to them helped me get out on the bike in the rain today. Let's hope it works for the commute, too!

I do like the idea of listing out all the good reasons to ride. Thanks, Mimi!

[tjf9]

Can you try a hybrid commute on the days that aren't too bad? Is there a halfway point you can stash your car and ride the rest of the way? Are you flexible enough to be able to make a game time decision? If so, maybe decide to ride if the temp is above a certain threshold. Then there's no "do I or don't I?

I am lucky to only have a 4 mile commute. My rule in the winter is that I ride if it is at least 35 and I don't ride if it is less than 30 (because that generally means ice in these parts). Between 30 and 35 depends on how wet and/or icy it is. But at least if it is 35, I'm on the bike.

Good luck!