Saturday, October 3, 2009

Prepare for your after-ride experience and your NEXT ride, during THIS ride

I know it sounds crazy to be thinking of your next ride as a beginner while you are already out, but it can be some of the things you do for yourself while you're riding that helps you prepare for the next ride.

First, as a beginner, if you are going to be in the saddle for longer than an hour, do yourself and your rump a favor and use a little chamois cream. Butt Butt'r or any other commercial brand of lotion or ointments (I have heard Desitin works well, A&D Ointment, Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter and Shea Butter) will help. Don't try to use your regular moisturizing lotion though, it isn't dense enough to offer the protection you need against chafing.

Second, remind yourself to change your riding position. If you are new, you could be gripping the horns of your handlebars like you are holding on for dear life. This tense action can really do some damage to your neck, shoulders, upper back and arms. Try to keep your elbows bent as shock absorbers and remember at red lights or brief stops to nod 'yes' and 'no' and turn your head left and right to stretch out those muscles. This can help prevent fatigue in these muscles later. Of course, stretching before you ever get on the bike or before any activity is always a great idea.

Third, new riders often feel too wobbly to pull their water bottles and drink. If this is you, then try a hydration pack at first. These make it easy to drink while riding without the danger of feeling like one might fall. Plenty of water will also help maintain strength and help one feel better AFTER the ride.

Finally, new riders are still learning which gears are for what. Often, it feels good for a new rider to be able to keep up with more seasoned pals by keeping the gear level high to gain more momentum. Mashing can tire one more easily, quicker. Try to shift down to a spinning gear. While it is a more intense state aerobically, it does help save the energy in one's legs. This is particularly helpful when there are hills in a ride. The spinning will help retain more power for the hills as they present themselves.

It can be frustrating as a new rider, wondering when, if ever, one will feel strong throughout the entire ride. It can also be disheartening to feel worn out after a ride when more seasoned riding friends move on the next activity of the day without a thought. Be patient with yourself--you will get there! Just ride often and stay with it!

What are you waiting for? Come out and join us...