Momentum builds

A couple of weeks on and I'm building some momentum. I have ridden to rides of over 30 miles and have cycled 3-4 times a week for both of the past two weeks.

The most obvious change has been in my leg strength on hills - I am a gear or two up from where I was just a month ago. I can also feel my technique improving and it is noticeable that on the flat I can now cruise at 20mph quite comfortably by sitting in a decent gear and simply turning the pedals around.

So - the downsides. Well, I'm getting saddle sore. Really quite sore after the 30 milers. So sore that something has to change between now and doing 100 miles. My first change has to be a proper pair of padded shorts. Most cyclists I speak to look at me bemused when I say I don't have a pair. Let's hope that does the trick - if not, then I'll be changing from my current saddle that looks something like a knife blade and is slightly less comfortable.

I'm now officially eating like a horse - and my legs are almost consistently slightly heavy. That is oddly pleasing - and the benefits of regular exercise are amazing ... in particular on sleep.

So, currently all is good. I'm on track with my training plan and enjoying the rides. The training plan starts to build up the longer distance rides now. That will be interesting.

Brendan

Off and running

Last Sunday I got 15 miles under the belt. Managed to find a relatively flat route and got an average of 14.9 mph. I'm trying to ride easily at the moment - rather than push for an average speed - so I was pleased with this and it restored some hope that I can build up to the 100 and finish it before darkness.

A tough week at work meant no cycling until a Friday 5 mile trip at lunch time. 12.3 average (it really is hilly!) was better than previous week and again this was not through a concerted effort.

Coming into the weekend I have a couple of 10 mile rides planned.

As I'm currently cycling in baggy tracksuit bottoms and 4 layers of normal clothing on top, I've decided not to wait any longer before getting some proper gear. If only to get padded shorts - the 15 mile trip suggested much further would have become sore!

With 3 months to go, I'm pleased to have got started as planned - got 2 others to join the trip which has made it real and I somehow feel on track even though I've got to get from 15 miles to 100.

It will be interesting to see whether I'm delusional. Time will tell.

Brendan