Feeling so defeated

[laura jane]

Thank you ladies. I did learn from this that I need to prepare myself as much as possible for the ride. Which means driving the course (if possible) so I don't suddenly stumble upon 'the Alps'. And I did learn a good bit from the mechanic when I needed some adjustments, which made my riding easier. I've decided I need to do a lot more reading about nutrition and also learned I hugely underestimated the amount of food I need to keep myself functioning on a ride.

[surgtech1956]

36 miles and hilly - that is something to be proud of. Think of it as a learning experience - eat more before, etc.... I agree - cut yourself some slack.

[NoNo]

I had the same feeling last week when I couldn't complete my first century. Don't feel bad, think about what you did well and what you learned about your nutrition needs. Soon the disappointment will turn to anger to be used to try again. I applaud your 36 hilly miles, I hate hills!

[Photoflygirl]

I try to look at 'defeats' as opportunities to be better in some way. I was feeling really lousy (physically and mentally) after riding only 5 miles with slight inclines. Then I was diagnosed with exercise-induced-asthma and now feel more accomplished because I have the correct medicine that helps me feel better after a ride. And I am praying that it is temporary and will go away with further conditioning. Life is an exercise in learning, don't let the speed bumps keep you down.

[Biciclista]

not just drive the course, but RIDE similar rides. maybe not 50 miles, but be sure you can do 40 miles of hilly rides before you agree to a ride like this!
That's a tough ride you did. be proud, and next time be more prepared.

[hipmama]

I've been exactly there before, and the feeling of defeat is huge but is sounds like you learned from it, which is key.
When I've had rides like that I've made sure I get out within the next couple of days for a route that I know I can take on and give myself a success ride to remind myself why I love cycling and to remind myself that I CAN do it.
I was defeated at a ride like that a few months ago and was going back to the same town for TDC and was a little worked up about being able to get through it. I got myself a good riding partner, made sure I ate and drank throughout the ride, and stayed positive. I rocked the ride have a lot more confidence now.
Sometimes it's the day, sometimes it's mechanics, weather, lack of food, lack of support- all of these things can knock you down. You rock for getting 36 miles in those hills!

[laura jane]

Thank you ladies. I have made a 'date' with myself to go back and kill those hills. I am not going to let this get me down! I don't know what it was about Sunday, but I was just out of sorts. Not like me at all. I guess it happens!