Couch (well, gym) to 20-Miler in 4 Weeks: Realistic?

[Ange]

Thanks so much for the welcome and the encouragement, everyone! It's an excellent point that I can choose to do more (or less) once I'm really there. I registered for the ride today!

I have actually been riding for a few weeks, but my first bike was a second hand 7100 that was too heavy for my taste, too upright for my taste, and Did Not Fit. The LBS I'm with now was fantastic about fitting my new bike, and they want me to come back in if it feels "off" at all after I get some mileage in the wild.

Hoping the weather stays dry for another ride tonight!

[sarahspins]

I read somewhere when I was starting, that barring any fit/comfort (or saddle) problems, anyone in decent shape should be able to do 20 miles easily if they don't push themselves too hard/fast. If you maintain just a 10mph pace, that's only 2 hours on the bike. 15mph, and that's an hour and 20 minutes... really not so impossible when you think about it in those terms.

Keep hydrated, and keep fueled, and you really should be just fine for however long/far you want to ride

[jusdooit]

Welcome. I remember being amazed at how quickly the distances came. Even though I rarely ride more than 25 miles regularly, I easily ride 50 miles for an event. I do tend to overheat easily, if this proves a problem for you just take extra breaks. I also carry a bottle that's water only to use for over the head cooling.
A word to the wise about food/ water balance. I have difficulty balancing the two. Remember to drink often and eat early. Too much liquid can slow your gut and digestion of much needed fuel.
Where on the Gulf Coast? I live in central MS. Know there are women in Mobile area you may be able to hook up with.