tired legs

[shootingstar]

I've done some multi-day touring rides with my own gear. Usually I find after 2 consecutive days of cycling 80-100kms. per day, the 3rd day I want to scale down to 10-15 km. to at least rest but still retain muscle memory. It would a slow, tootling type of day.

By the 5th day or so, I really do need to not bike at all for such a touring ride. Then the next day I'm refreshed.

I'm 53. I've never tried compression tights. Just a short ride or 1rest day helps me.

For a normal ride to me about the city would be 15-40 km. per day. I've been on the bike daily for the past 20 days. That's very normal for me during spring to early fall-- to cycle for 14-25 consecutive days before I take 1-2 days off. It's weekends I do the longer distances. But I am not racing against my own time, I'm just cycling at a speed that suits me and for what I want to do along the way since cycling is part of my whole lifestyle ...being car-free for so many years.

Once you get used to cycling the way I do it, your body gets hooked to the natural drug endorphins that cycling/exercise produces or that natural "high" feeling.

[bluebug32]

I second the compression tights. Also doing a slow cooldown spin and some light stretching after you ride will also help. I would also add that using a foam roller every day (if possible) will keep your legs feeling loose, limber and refreshed. Often I'll wake up stiff and sore in the morning, foam roll for 10 minutes, focusing on sinking into the sore spot and will feel good enough to go for a ride or run by the afternoon.

[tulip]

I never have a day of complete rest because I have a dog and he insists on two long walks a day. So I might be off the bike, but I move (walk for 45 mins twice a day and do Pilates) at the very least. Maybe just doing nothing on your rest day is a bad idea. I'm 44 and I have not experienced what the OP describes. I've heard god things about compression tights.

[bluebug32]

Another thought...how is your diet?

[Kiwi Stoker]

I wear them post ride and often sleep in them. Studies have shown there's no benefit wearing them while exercising but however afterwards it does help. Helps move the lactic acid and fluid up your legs so can be eliminated from your body faster.

[pinsonp2]

I don't have compression tights, just stockings (panty hose and knee high). These were prescribed after an auto accident and I still use them post long ride or when ever the kegs are complaining.

P2

[Cathy89]

I don't know the exact situation but a tip I came to know from an oldman in Asia. He suggested
some oils and massage with them. After 2 hours of massage, take a bath with bit warm water.
Quite efficient.

[azfiddle]

I thought this thread might get into my problem- my legs just get really tired and hurt ON the bike, and I can't seem to keep up with people because it hurts.

A few random thoughts...
I haven't ever tried the compression tights... maybe it's worth a try because sometimes I do have a lingering soreness for more than a day. I'm 56. I rode 75 miles Saturday and Sunday did not want to get on the bike at all but was ready to ride Monday. After my first century last year (actually 111 miles) I did an easy recovery ride on a flat MUP trail, and I think it was very helpful.