Training adivice/suggestions

[tealtreak]

nothing replaces time in the saddle.......also, while bike paths are usually stress free and good scenery, they are often flat.....hill repeats and intervals increase staying power like nothing else sorry you had a bad experience, hang in there, next ride will be better (:

[velo]

Miles. Just get in the miles. Don't put too much stock in group rides. Even the recreational "no drop" rides have some sort of competitive spirit... it's the nature of the sport. If you feel discouraged with them, don't do them. Short ride? Too subjective.

[luvmyguys]

This sounds wimpy, but I'm building myself up as well. My "short rides" have simply been when I can get away during the day, and I give myself 30ish minutes to get as much as I can in. There's a loop in my neighborhood where I don't have any stop signs, so I can just keep going on that.

[bluebug32]

You can be a strong rider able to hold high speeds or ride long distances, but there are specific skills necessary to ride in a group. I could probably fill a page with tips, but I would suggest a couple of things. Find a good group that's no drop and rides at a doable speed. Keep yourself near the front and following the group's accelerations. Look up the road, anticipating changes in speeds or upcoming traffic light. Above all else, ask questions and try to keep yourself from being discouraged. Good luck and don't be afraid to get out there. The more you show up, the better group rider will you become.