We finally had good weather and my Saturday was free the past weekend. A few of us from the team got out for ride. We did 25 miles. It was a good ride. I felt strong, especially on the hills. That is odd for me and even more so since I haven’t been able to train that much this year. I wonder if my new treatment is helping? That would be a nice side effect!
My son and I went to the gym tonight rather than ride in the high winds. We rode the stationary bikes for an hour and then lifted weights. I just hope I can get enough saddle time in the next few weeks to feel ready. I hope so.
Advertisement
Keep up the great work. Over my 5 rides, I’ve trained a little and a lot with similar results… but I finished each time.
Just remember a few simple things:
1. Take advantage of rest stops >>> you need to stop when you feel like stopping. Take a quick break to stretch your legs, back and shoulders, and take a minute to get the blood flowing to your backside.
2. Stay on top of your fuel intake >>> drink and eat something every 30-45 mins. That means food at rest stops whether it be a gel or cliff bar. I recommend you test what you eat and drink on practice rides so you know what your stomach can handle. Then stock up on these items in case the rest stop doesn’t carry these things. You’ll have no shortage of Powerade, bananas, and protein bars but I recommend finding a good gel, “solids” like cliff bars or chewable items and using your jersey pockets to pack them.
3. Train for the worst >>> like you’ve done, train in all conditions like the wind and start to work in back to back workouts like two long weekend rides so your body can get used to climbing back on after a long ride day to work through some soreness and aches.
Do these things and you’ll finish the ride upright and smiling. Good luck in the remaining few weeks and here’s to a great ride this year. It’s a life changing experience that you’ll be telling your kids kids about for years to come.
Thanks for the advice and encouragement. I have been much better the past couple of weeks. I hit the stationary bike at the gym twice and got out Saturday. I am surprised how strong I feel with as little saddle time as I’ve been able to get. Three weeks left to train! If I keep the minimum of three workouts a week until then, I should be okay. I’m getting excited!
hi,
i’m a bike (delaware) rider with ms. we’ve done 6 rides with them in the past, and they just decided that no children can ride anymore. my sons just got old enough to do the short ride, and we’re very disppointed that they’ll have to wait years to do it. of course, by the time that they’re old enough to do it, i won’t be able to because of my ms.
have you heard anything about this “no children can ride” decision?
thanks
Kevin,
No, I haven’t heard anything about no kids. Here in Texas we do have a minimum age limit. It is 12 years old I think. I hope they don’t make that change. Riding with my son has been a great blessing. Last year they did implement a “No Trailers” rule. So that would preclude children too young to ride.
I think you and some others with MS should petition the local chapter to see if they will reverse their decision. I certainly understand wanting to do this with your kids before you can’t. I try to do all I can with my kids and family no knowing how long I may be able to continue. Many times I pay the price being wiped out for a day or two after doing things with my family. But that is not what my kids will remember, they will remember what we did together.
Keep riding and keep the rubber side down!
they’ve told me that it is a nation-wide policy. i’ve asked the local chapter to intervene, and they just shrug and pass me up to national.
Rod – great job! Matt says it best. Just get in the back to back saddle time and you’ll be set! You’re strong because you’re getting in short but effective workouts (and not overtraining). Great Job!