Have you set yourself the goal of taking part in one of the two Women’s Adventure Races? Well, signing up is the first step, but we know a training plan can look a lot like another mountain to climb if this is your first time attempting an adventure race.
We’ve teamed up with the ladies behind the race, the Gaelforce team, to bring you the top tips to help tackle the next stage of the race- cycling!
1. Get your hands on a good bike!
We’re not saying it’s going to be the making of you, but a decent bike will really help you build up your training for the adventure race – especially as some of the route is going to be off-road. If you’re thinking of taking up cycling long-term, it might be worth investing in a Hybrid (cross between a mountain bike and a road bike). Otherwise, why not ask around your sporty friends or family to see if they’ve a decent bike you can borrow? It’ll have to be better than the rusty spokes and basket affair currently lying in the shed!
2. Padding is your friend
We’ve all felt the pain of excruciating saddle soreness. Especially for those who start cycling after a long break, this pain can limit your distance and training if you’re not properly prepared. Lycra cycle shorts or leggings are possibly the most unattractive piece of clothing you will ever put on you but they can be masked by a second pair of shorts over them or a longer cycling top. You can also buy a padded saddle to put over your own – definitely worth considering if you’ll be putting in the miles!
3. Invest in the equipment
We know this can sound like an expensive hobby, but investing in the right equipment is money well spent and can help increase your chances of keeping it up as a long-term sport. From the right bike, to padding purchases, these buys will help make the training, race and future outings that bit more enjoyable and pain-free.
4. Be a shining light
We really mean this one. We don’t need you to spend half your training time recovering from a road accident. Wear reflective clothing, obey the rules of the road and don’t assume that drivers will see you and avoid you.
5. Mix it up!
Try put a bit of fun back into your cycling session! Why not make a day out of it? Try a new route, enlist a friend, bring a picnic or just relax and take in the scenery. This is supposed to be fun too! Cycling should not be all about putting the head down and beating your time.
6. Search for inspiration
It’s normal when you’re training to feel a bit flat, so why not motivate yourself with a little old-school research? Look up some cycling races online, check out the Tour de France for some real glamour and find the motivation to put your foot to the pedal. Sure you look the exact same when you’re out and about. The EXACT same!
7. Accept the ‘bad days’
We understand that even with the inspiring videos, workout gear and new equipment, you will have days where you won’t be able to face the bike. Children, jobs, periods and the flu – some things just knock your training on its head. Take your day to yourself and climb back on the saddle tomorrow.
8. Brave the hills
Don’t avoid the hills. Luckily in Ireland you’ll never go far before noticing a hill popping up in your path. But they will make you fitter and stronger much quicker than cycling on the flat and once you’ve mastered the hill, you’ll be flying.
The Women’s Adventure Race started in 2013, and was Ireland’s first women-only adventure race. Taking in running, kayaking and cycling, it was such a success that Gaelforce Events are organising two races this year – the original race in Leenane, Co.Galway on July 26th and now a second race in Roundwood, Co.Wicklow on September 20th.
