Off-Season Training Tips

Be Ready To Hit the Saddle!

By Kristin Matthews

Well, the days are getting warmer and we’re all itching to get on our bikes… outdoors. But if you’re anything like me, I’d rather find other ways to stay in shape in the winter months!  First of all, I’m getting to the age where I need to let my old bones recover from all of the biking during the summer months.  Also, I feel very strongly about making my whole body as strong as possible. After all, a well-rounded fitness program can really fight off other problems in future years.  While I’m no expert, I know from personal experience, and from reading up on health and well being, that there are a variety of ways to stay in shape, stay strong and be bike ready when it comes time to hit the saddle. 

First and most importantly, how’s your overall diet? Try to eat a well balanced diet and get into the habit of eating five times a day (two being snacks).  Everyone’s different, so some of you may need a more protein rich diet, while others may need more carbs. Personally, I blow up like a balloon with too many carbs. Skipping meals and not getting the proper caloric intake screws up your metabolism. And while that might not matter in your life now, it will come back to haunt you when you get older! 

Secondly, keep in mind that there are tons of ways to get ready for the ride without necessarily going to spinning classes – though we hope to see you at the ones we’ve arranged for March!  Any cardiovascular exercise a couple of times a week, alternating with weight training, is good too.  Lifting weights is a great way to augment your muscular strength as well as maintain good, strong bones (this is important for both women and men!).  I’m not talking about power lifting here, just doing repetitions and sets will get you on the right track.  You’ll feel the difference when you climb that first big hill this coming season! If you don’t belong to a gym, power walking, running, any form of exercise will do. 

Lastly, get in the habit of hydrating now!  With any exercise make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids during the workout and throughout the day.  Most importantly, listen to your body!  If your knees are really bothering you, lay off of whatever you’ve been doing. Maybe alter your routine and give your body a chance to recover.  Remember there is such a thing as over training.  We want you to be able to fully enjoy your ride experience. That’s hard to do if your body is hurting before you even begin.  No matter what, you will be ready and we’ll be there to help you make it through!