Winter Training

Finding the motivation and energy to train in the winter can be a difficult task.  With the frigid temperatures and piles of snow most people hang up their bikes until spring thaws things out and focus on some type of cross-training.

Many cyclists take advantage of the snow and stay in shape by getting out on cross-country skis or snowshoes.  These activities help you to stay in shape aerobically and maintain some endurance.  Others choose to hit the gym and go to spin class, swim, run, or lift weights.

Whatever your skill level or discipline, if you want to stay in shape this winter you will need to find a winter training program that works well for you.  There are many books and resources out there that will tell you how to train in the winter.  So how do you decide which to choose and what to do?  The best thing to do is what works best for you.  This may take some time and trial and error, but it is worth it.

Tips:

• Educate yourself
• Do something you enjoy
• Set obtainable goals

Why do we ride bikes?  We ride bikes because it is fun and we enjoy it, and one of the benefits is that it is exercise at the same time.  So don’t make it a chore, do it because you want to and you love to.  If you are like me and don’t like riding a trainer, don’t do it, find another way to stay in shape through the winter.

Helpful Articles:

http://www.cptips.com/wntrtrg.htm

http://www.training4cyclists.com/winter-cycling-tips/

If you enjoy snowshoeing, we now have enough snow to go snowshoeing.  We usually snowshoe on Thursday nights at 6pm.  Call or email us to get on our email list so that you can know when and where we are going.