by Corban Burns

Created on: March 19, 2010

So you have been making it a habit of riding your bike a lot lately. You have seen improvement in areas of stamina, control and overall performance. You now see biking not just as a way to relax, but a sport. All of this has gotten you so excited and you think you are ready for anything, so you sign up for your first century ride or 100 mile trek. However, despite your enthusiasm, you still have many questions about a century ride. How should I prepare my body? How should I prepare my bike? What foods would be best to eat? All of these are important and legitimate questions that you should ask.

*Preparing you Body*

Most likely the best thing to begin preparing would be your body. You may not realize it because you are so accustomed to driving a car, but 100 miles is a long ride on a bike. And a milestone like this cannot be accomplished just by saying “I’m ready.” You must first build a steady track of endurance. Why not begin by taking a look at how many miles you ride in one week. If you are serious you should at least ride 10 miles per day. This would put you at 70 miles per week. Gradually, as your body becomes accustomed to the longer and more intense rides, begin setting higher goals for yourself. Try to reach 45 miles during the week and 55 on the weekend. Also, try not to use your car for transportation. Commute back and forth to work and for your lunch breaks. All of these seemingly minor workouts will come a long way in your century ride.

*Preparing your Bike*

Now you must take a look at your bike. Don’t think you have to go purchase a $2,000 recumbent bike in order for you to finish your century ride. You may realize there are only a few minor changes that need to be made. For example, the size of your wheel and the width of your tires may need to be adjusted. While you may ride a mountain bike with 2.25 inch tires throughout the week, it’s not ideal for a 100 mile trek. Running a slimmer tire such as 1.25 inches and even changing over to a hybrid bike may make the ride even more enjoyable and comfy.

*Proper Food for the Ride*

This goes without saying—you will need a lot of food on the ride! If your century ride is organized, there will be some stop along the way for you to eat and take small breaks. Check and see what will be served. Ideal snacks for a century ride would be peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, peanut butter crackers, mixed nuts with raisins, fig bars, bananas, and apples. Also it would be good to purchase liquids that are high in electrolytes. This will serve as a major energy booster and will rehydrate and replenish your body’s water.

All in all, this will be an experience you will never forget. It will be an adventure and an enjoyable one too, if you take the time to prepare properly.

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