After such a successful outing on Saturday I was ready for a more challenging ride on Sunday. I know I need to get used to riding multiple days in a row, my training so far has been every other at most. I also have a long way to go in being able to handle hills.
I decided to head to Griffith Park, which offers more inclines for me to ride on, and train my body for the difference. I haven't been on a hill since Thanksgiving, but thought with the new pedals I'd have a stronger stroke and do OK. HA!
Within 1/2 a mile I learned otherwise. I was stopped at the crazy 6 point intersection of Lankershim/Vineland/Camarillo, I had my right foot out and on the ground. Next thing I know, I'm tilting to the left and there's not a damn thing I can do to stop it! Didn't get the left foot out in time for a save, no I went down and went down HARD! My elbow took the brunt of the fall - OUCH! I've been saying if I wipe out I want to catch it on video for everyone to enjoy, no such luck this time, but at such a major intersection I did have a very large live audience to my collapse. Good times.
After picking myself up and getting situated on the bike again, I tucked my bruised ego away and got on with it. I don't know if it was the back to back riding days, the crazy wind resistance or the inclines on the route that I'm not used, but this ride kicked my ass! It was probably a little of everything, but I couldn't even get up the first hill at Griffith Park without stopping. My rep calls my lower gears "granny gears" but without them, I don't know that I'd survive and inclines! At least not yet.
I made it around the loop with a detour to the LA River bike path. They've extended the path another 3 miles, which makes for a nice long stretch. However, I have two issues with the river path, one is the DAMN GNATS! Constantly in my face, my nose, my mouth, it's very distracting and skeeves me out! The other is the extremely inconsiderate gatherings of people who don't know how to share the road! Slowing down so I don't hit your kid, dog, grocery cart while you stare at me confused is just RUDE!
Got through the ride and the frustrations along the way. Have a big bruise/scrape on my elbow. It joins the one on my calf as well as one on my knee that I have no recollection of getting and the beautiful brown one on the inside of my elbow from having blood drawn! I am a rainbow of battle scars these days :)
My new goal is to keep going back to Griffith and riding that loop until I master the incline without needing to stop to keep from having a heart attack! That combined with base miles will be the schedule going forward.
I've got my first century this Saturday, the Paul Hulse ride in Santa Clarita and the 65 mile "Day on the Ride" the following Sunday. Those two biggies with my continued base miles and inclines will hopefully prepare me for the ride in June!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
The Next Level: Clipless Pedals
The more I ride and the more I educate myself on the world of cycling one of the things that keeps coming up is clipless pedals/ Yes, you actually clip in to them but they're called clipless (there's an explanation on how the misnomer came about and you can google it, if you care). After talking with more experienced riders about the upgrade and if I should take the leap I went and checked out what I would need and how much it would cost a few different cycling shops.
This past Saturday, I ventured down to Cynergy Cycles and with a lot of helpful assistance I purchased both the shoes and the pedals. I appreciated that they didn't try to convince me i had to buy the most expensive of everything, which had happened at on of the shops I visited earlier in the week. Because it was such a trek I didn't bring my bike with e to Cynergy. Once i got home I headed over to Metropolis (where I bought my bike) to have them swap the pedals and give me a helping hand getting in and out of them.
Every time I talked with people about the pedals they assured me I would fall, it's just what happen when you get in to them for the first few time. Seemed illogical to me, why not just practice clipping in and out while standing still to get used to the motion. I figured with adequate practice, I'd be fine.
After the fabulous staff at Metropolis put on my new pedals and helped me out getting the hang of clipping in and out, I was off on my first clipped in ride! I should also mention, that while at Cynergy I found a few pieces of apparel on sale. One of which was a pair of capri-like, knee length spandex. I have a pair of spandex shorts already, but they've been sitting on a chair in my bedroom with the tags still on for 9 months now. I just haven't been able to bring myself to ride out with them on. The longer length made me more comfortable - think about it, with spandex shorts things bulge over at the waist, at the hem, I just have too many body issues to go out in public like that. the knee length spandex, on the other hand, keeps everything squeezed in where it should be! So it was not only my first ride clipped in, but my first ride in spandex!
I went on a 30 mile ride, relatively flat on the Chandler path. And i did not fall! i did however have a few "almost" falling moments. I clipped out my right foot when I stopped, but often found myself leaning left to hit the pedestrian crosswalk button. This was when I'd start to tilt and having my left foot still attached to the pedal, I couldn't put my foot down to balance myself. Each time this happened I'd end up popping my foot out just in time. I'm sure I looked very graceful during the flailing and stumbling, but hey - that's how you learn, right?
I have to say, the pedals really do make you more efficient. I find myself increasing my speed quicker than I used to. I need to shift to a higher gear often when I first get going after a stop, to avoid pedaling air and have some resistance. I'm still learning how to be a better cyclist and how to pedal faster versus stronger, getting cardio versus strength, but these pedals really do make a difference. At the same time they do make me feel vulnerable, being attached to the bike, like if I need to get off quick, it's not going to happen.
I thought I finished my ride unscathed, but later, when getting in the shower I found a nice huge purple welt on the inside of my right calf, I'm guessing I fell in to the pedal on my near misses to the left! Ouch.
This past Saturday, I ventured down to Cynergy Cycles and with a lot of helpful assistance I purchased both the shoes and the pedals. I appreciated that they didn't try to convince me i had to buy the most expensive of everything, which had happened at on of the shops I visited earlier in the week. Because it was such a trek I didn't bring my bike with e to Cynergy. Once i got home I headed over to Metropolis (where I bought my bike) to have them swap the pedals and give me a helping hand getting in and out of them.
Every time I talked with people about the pedals they assured me I would fall, it's just what happen when you get in to them for the first few time. Seemed illogical to me, why not just practice clipping in and out while standing still to get used to the motion. I figured with adequate practice, I'd be fine.
After the fabulous staff at Metropolis put on my new pedals and helped me out getting the hang of clipping in and out, I was off on my first clipped in ride! I should also mention, that while at Cynergy I found a few pieces of apparel on sale. One of which was a pair of capri-like, knee length spandex. I have a pair of spandex shorts already, but they've been sitting on a chair in my bedroom with the tags still on for 9 months now. I just haven't been able to bring myself to ride out with them on. The longer length made me more comfortable - think about it, with spandex shorts things bulge over at the waist, at the hem, I just have too many body issues to go out in public like that. the knee length spandex, on the other hand, keeps everything squeezed in where it should be! So it was not only my first ride clipped in, but my first ride in spandex!
I went on a 30 mile ride, relatively flat on the Chandler path. And i did not fall! i did however have a few "almost" falling moments. I clipped out my right foot when I stopped, but often found myself leaning left to hit the pedestrian crosswalk button. This was when I'd start to tilt and having my left foot still attached to the pedal, I couldn't put my foot down to balance myself. Each time this happened I'd end up popping my foot out just in time. I'm sure I looked very graceful during the flailing and stumbling, but hey - that's how you learn, right?
I have to say, the pedals really do make you more efficient. I find myself increasing my speed quicker than I used to. I need to shift to a higher gear often when I first get going after a stop, to avoid pedaling air and have some resistance. I'm still learning how to be a better cyclist and how to pedal faster versus stronger, getting cardio versus strength, but these pedals really do make a difference. At the same time they do make me feel vulnerable, being attached to the bike, like if I need to get off quick, it's not going to happen.
I thought I finished my ride unscathed, but later, when getting in the shower I found a nice huge purple welt on the inside of my right calf, I'm guessing I fell in to the pedal on my near misses to the left! Ouch.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Fear and Intimidation
So....I'm getting back in the swing of training and all things Lifecycle, including the Spring Expo this weekend. A wonderful full day event filled with helpful information about the ride, how to prepare, sponsors, etc.
Besides being repeatedly thwarted by the LA Marathon in my attempt to get to the Expo (20 minute drive took me two and a half hours) it should have been an exciting and encouraging day. I got to see my fabulous rep Kerry, as well as some of the cool women I've met so far on this journey. I learned about making your bike an indoor training bike - how FREAKING COOL is that?!?! - and even met two new fabulous women who are also first time riders. But when I left the Village, I've got to admit, I was (for the first time since registering) scared!
What the hell have I gotten myself in to?!?! I found myself intimidated by every aspect of the ride: How will I possibly raise enough money? How in the world could I think I'd be able to ride 545 miles? How am I going to afford all of the equipment I need to camp, ride, eat, breathe, everything?!?!
I wish I had been given a fabulous inspirational speech by someone that I could end this entry with, telling you how I've conquered all my fears and have come up with a plan of attack and just know I can do this. Sometimes I really wish life were a sitcom. There is no big happy wrap up with a bow. I guess that's the way life is...sometimes you're scared and there's no easy way to get over your fear.
I do feel better today. I did just finish a 16.5 mile ride that felt amazing and gave me a little more faith in my physical ability (I don't doubt that will continue to have good days and bad days). I also got a donation from one of my oldest and dearest friends today which was nice. I do need to come up with a plan of attack for the fundraising, as well as prioritize and budget for equipment I need, but I think I can get a handle on it. Don't really have a choice, do I? It's my life, I've got to live it to the best of my ability :)
Besides being repeatedly thwarted by the LA Marathon in my attempt to get to the Expo (20 minute drive took me two and a half hours) it should have been an exciting and encouraging day. I got to see my fabulous rep Kerry, as well as some of the cool women I've met so far on this journey. I learned about making your bike an indoor training bike - how FREAKING COOL is that?!?! - and even met two new fabulous women who are also first time riders. But when I left the Village, I've got to admit, I was (for the first time since registering) scared!
What the hell have I gotten myself in to?!?! I found myself intimidated by every aspect of the ride: How will I possibly raise enough money? How in the world could I think I'd be able to ride 545 miles? How am I going to afford all of the equipment I need to camp, ride, eat, breathe, everything?!?!
I wish I had been given a fabulous inspirational speech by someone that I could end this entry with, telling you how I've conquered all my fears and have come up with a plan of attack and just know I can do this. Sometimes I really wish life were a sitcom. There is no big happy wrap up with a bow. I guess that's the way life is...sometimes you're scared and there's no easy way to get over your fear.
I do feel better today. I did just finish a 16.5 mile ride that felt amazing and gave me a little more faith in my physical ability (I don't doubt that will continue to have good days and bad days). I also got a donation from one of my oldest and dearest friends today which was nice. I do need to come up with a plan of attack for the fundraising, as well as prioritize and budget for equipment I need, but I think I can get a handle on it. Don't really have a choice, do I? It's my life, I've got to live it to the best of my ability :)
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Still Going!
Alright, I don't want to jinx it, but I might be back in the groove...although, I'm not sure two days counts as a groove yet? Got in another 12 mile ride yesterday after work. It's been beautiful here and it's nice to have the back up of riding after work, should I find myself unable to get up in the morning to ride. That being said I'd prefer to get back in the A.M groove and ride first thing in the morning. Oh well, baby steps.
So last night's ride was harder then Monday's. Why does that happen? Whenever you come back from an extended break in you fitness routine, the first day you kick ass and the second you get your ass handed to you? Anyway, found myself a little sore in the saddle - guess I need to build that back up ;) And the first 6 miles were against the wind, really pushed me. The 6 back were much easier with the wind at my back and I made up the time lost on the first half!
Still want to plan a fundraiser, thinking maybe a Happy Hour at a bar with either a cover that goes to the ride or drink specials where the discount goes to the ride....would appreciate any suggestions! Also hope to get some video up, maybe take the camera out on a training ride and see if there are any good wipe outs ;)
Thanks for all of your support!
So last night's ride was harder then Monday's. Why does that happen? Whenever you come back from an extended break in you fitness routine, the first day you kick ass and the second you get your ass handed to you? Anyway, found myself a little sore in the saddle - guess I need to build that back up ;) And the first 6 miles were against the wind, really pushed me. The 6 back were much easier with the wind at my back and I made up the time lost on the first half!
Still want to plan a fundraiser, thinking maybe a Happy Hour at a bar with either a cover that goes to the ride or drink specials where the discount goes to the ride....would appreciate any suggestions! Also hope to get some video up, maybe take the camera out on a training ride and see if there are any good wipe outs ;)
Thanks for all of your support!
Monday, March 15, 2010
After a long winter's nap...
Well, after a THREE month hibernation...I finally got my butt back on my bike and MAN did it feel GOOD! I have all of the standard excuses; it was raining, I got the flu, it was cold, I just couldn't get up :( But now, with just under three months left to train, I must buckle down!
In order to help put the pressure on, I have signed up for my first century! On Saturday, April 10th I will be joining the Pos Peds for the Paul Hulse Century through beautiful Santa Clarita! Woo Hoo!
Besides needing to get back in to training, I also need to kick it up with my fundraising! Hoping to plan an event at a local bar to generate some funds for the cause, will keep you all updated on that one for sure :)
Thanks for all of your support!
In order to help put the pressure on, I have signed up for my first century! On Saturday, April 10th I will be joining the Pos Peds for the Paul Hulse Century through beautiful Santa Clarita! Woo Hoo!
Besides needing to get back in to training, I also need to kick it up with my fundraising! Hoping to plan an event at a local bar to generate some funds for the cause, will keep you all updated on that one for sure :)
Thanks for all of your support!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Taking on the Hills...part duex
Well, here I was all confident and cocky about my first attempt at hills. Although it certainly kicked my ass last Sunday, I did it, and was proud. Imagine my surprise when I take on Griffith Park with the guidance of a veteran rider and can barely make it up the first one! Wow! Do I have a way to go. I've got to tell you, I am not a fan of reality checks! And boy, did I get one!
The interesting part was that it wasn't my legs and muscles that were killing me, it was my lungs and my poor little heart felt like it was going to burst right out of my chest. I thought I was in pretty decent shape. Not an athlete, but healthy. I do my 12 and 30 mile rides without feeling the need to pull over and throw up, or pass out when I get home. Turns out, those hills are just a little more difficult ;)
I'm really glad I've started early and have the time to train. Here's hoping I can make the hills a regular part of my week, in order to build up the necessary abilities to survive the ride in June!
Tomorrow is the World AIDS Day Ride and I'm looking forward to it. This will be my first ride with such a large number of participants. It should be a good experience for me to prepare for riding with 2,500 people :) I'm slowly building my group size to get accustomed to riding with so many others. Plus, it's wonderful to meet more people who are cyclists, supporting AIDS fundraising or both or neither!
The interesting part was that it wasn't my legs and muscles that were killing me, it was my lungs and my poor little heart felt like it was going to burst right out of my chest. I thought I was in pretty decent shape. Not an athlete, but healthy. I do my 12 and 30 mile rides without feeling the need to pull over and throw up, or pass out when I get home. Turns out, those hills are just a little more difficult ;)
I'm really glad I've started early and have the time to train. Here's hoping I can make the hills a regular part of my week, in order to build up the necessary abilities to survive the ride in June!
Tomorrow is the World AIDS Day Ride and I'm looking forward to it. This will be my first ride with such a large number of participants. It should be a good experience for me to prepare for riding with 2,500 people :) I'm slowly building my group size to get accustomed to riding with so many others. Plus, it's wonderful to meet more people who are cyclists, supporting AIDS fundraising or both or neither!
Monday, November 23, 2009
A Day of Firsts
Well, this weekend provided a plethora of firsts for me; first official training ride, first ride with hills and first use of my new bike rack. I've gotta say, each one almost killed me! The stress of a 50 minute ride on the 101 and 110 freeways with my bike strapped on was so stressful for me! I had tested out putting the rack on the trunk the night before, but I couldn't stop glancing in the rear view mirror every few seconds or stop my stomach from clenching with every bump and hop terrified I'd look back to see my precious cargo under the tire of an 18 wheeler!
Once my bike and I got safely to the meeting point, I was nervous for a whole new reason. Everyone else was a professional! They all had "Lance" style road bikes, were decked out in spandex and clip in to the pedals sneakers! I felt totally out classed! The description did say beginners, right?!?! So here I come, in my black yoga pants (still too many body issues to pull on the spandex just yet), Hybrid bike and Universal sweatshirt ;)
Then there's the ride itself....the hills that were described as "rolling" have me practically peddling in place on the way up with glutes burning and quads screaming and gripping my handlebars for dear life on the way down as I reach speeds of 25 miles an hour without pedaling! That doesn't even factor in the cars who leave maybe 4-6 inches between the two of you!
Besides all that whining...it was an AMAZING day! I met and rode with some fabulous, fearless females! I had the best workout of my life! I learned how to ride with more than one person at a time and practiced calling out dangers ad directions...and I laughed a lot (when I wasn't crying or complaining) with these mildly insane but ever so supportive and entertaining women!
Can't wait for the next one!
Once my bike and I got safely to the meeting point, I was nervous for a whole new reason. Everyone else was a professional! They all had "Lance" style road bikes, were decked out in spandex and clip in to the pedals sneakers! I felt totally out classed! The description did say beginners, right?!?! So here I come, in my black yoga pants (still too many body issues to pull on the spandex just yet), Hybrid bike and Universal sweatshirt ;)
Then there's the ride itself....the hills that were described as "rolling" have me practically peddling in place on the way up with glutes burning and quads screaming and gripping my handlebars for dear life on the way down as I reach speeds of 25 miles an hour without pedaling! That doesn't even factor in the cars who leave maybe 4-6 inches between the two of you!
Besides all that whining...it was an AMAZING day! I met and rode with some fabulous, fearless females! I had the best workout of my life! I learned how to ride with more than one person at a time and practiced calling out dangers ad directions...and I laughed a lot (when I wasn't crying or complaining) with these mildly insane but ever so supportive and entertaining women!
Can't wait for the next one!
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