Time to Prepare

Winter is the perfect time to lay the foundations of fitness and plan the season ahead. Use this time wisely to build gradually towards your goal, setting markers along the way to keep track of where you are with your preparation. Don’t be afraid to reassess things if need be, juggling work, family and training commitments is a process that should be fulfilling and fun not a daily chore. Be realistic with your time and commit to a structured approach for your event. You’ll find in doing this you’ll be more disciplined with your training and efficient with your time.

Use this period to test your kit thoroughly under similar conditions that you may experience during your event. Your favourite kit may be great for a two hour post-work ride but could throw up some surprises when you’re in it for twice the time or more. The same goes for nutrition, get used to what works best for your body well in advance and don’t change your tried and tested methods on the day when you find an unfamiliar gel, bar or energy drink sachet lurking in the bottom of your sign on goody bag.

With all the miles you’re putting in, remember to keep an eye on wear and tear of your equipment too. Service your bike 2-3 weeks before the event to allow yourself enough time to check everything is working as it should be. The last thing you need is a mechanical failure on the day to scupper all of your hard work.