Lessons Learned While Training

Training has been good not only for improving fitness. It has also taught me many things in preparation for my long adventure.

In no particular order…

• Shift to a lower gear BEFORE stopping – especially on an incline (makes starting up again, much easier).
• Turn lights on before heading out.
• Turn lights off once you are home for the day.
• Check your tire psi before every ride.
• Fill your water bottles – and remember to take them with you.
• Keep Spare cash/ATM card in your bag.
• I don’t like being cold!
• Layers are good things!
• My face dries out much quicker/easier at age 54 than it did at age 25. Sunscreen and moisturizers are good things.
• Heat, hills, and headwind are still a B–ch! (Did I say I don’t like being cold? Really?)
• I can change a flat tire.
• Riding 100 miles isn’t so hard.
• Ride your own ride! Always!
• Spinning at a high cadence is a good thing (helps for climbing, moving against the wind, and endurance).
• Sometimes the mapping aps get it wrong!
• Photos do not fully capture what you experience out there.
• Chamois is a good thing.
• If you want to use technology, charge your batteries!
• Brifters – who knew? Didn’t have those when I rode in the ’80’s.
• Use the built in snot rag part of the gloves, not the scratchy mesh! (Unless of course, you have an itch.)
• Close your mouth if you don’t want to eat bugs.
• If I never swallow another bug, it will be too soon!
• Tailwinds are good only if you are NOT returning home on the same route.
• Headwinds are good ONLY if you are returning home on the same route.
• Wear sunscreen even if it’s overcast.
• Cars do not see you – you must keep aware of them.
• Self discipline – get out there and ride – even when it’s cold, even when it’s raining, even when it’s hot, even when it’s windy, but only if it’s fun.
• I can still do this!

God is good! Ride on!