29 October 2021
If you reckon on pinning it to Bluff in 10 days, you'll no doubt already have a sophisticated training schedule in place. Most riders however will adopt a mixture of some long distance/multi-day training rides with a 'slow-start' strategy - gaining fitness, speed and distance as you progress down the country. Irrespective of how juiced you want to be on the start line, here are some considerations for preparing your body to ride the length of New Zealand.
Tristan 'cross' training to break up the winter routine. Photo: Digby Shaw
Don't over-do it. Start your regime early and build gradually into longer days. To borrow terminology from the kitchen - roast yourself slowly, take out of the oven early and allow to rest before serving yourself up at Cape Reinga.
More than strength and aerobic capacity, it's vital to toughen your bum and condition your hands. Saddle sores, bruising and nerve damage are all potential show stoppers for your TA.
A few tricks can be deployed to intensify your training. If you take this approach then pay particular heed to the 'don't over-do it' advice.
Be mindful of good cycle and other techniques.
Setting good habits in place during training really helps when you're knackered and need to be on autopilot.
For those whose job keeps them inside, moving from desk and to saddle stretches and challenges your body.
Mental resilience is important preparation for endurance events. Some ideas to toss around...
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