Training for the Taff Trail

How you start training for a long distance cycle ride depends largely on your present fitness level, age and the amount of cycling you have done in the past. Everyone is different, so do not put too much pressure on yourself. You’ll enjoy the challenge more, and not get discouraged, if you take it easy in the beginning and follow our advice. And don’t forget, this is supposed to be fun! Enjoy yourself!

With work, family and fundraising commitments you may not always be able to fit in your training, so here’s some helpful tips

• Warm up at least ten minutes before undertaking any exercise, and don’t forget to plan adequate rest days as part of the training to give your body time to recover
• Get up an hour earlier and go for a quick cycle
• Why not cycle to work? If you can’t cycle the whole way, why not cycle to a train or bus station and then continue your journey on public transport. Make sure you are happy and able to leave your bike in a safe place
• Use your lunchtime to take regular brisk walks or cycle around your work area
• Find a steep set of stairs to climb in work or at home. Climb them five times, at least three times a week
• At weekends find some hilly areas to experience cycling on diverse surfaces and facing different weather
• Join a spinning class at your local gym

Fighting “saddle soreness”

Perhaps the most difficult aspect of cycling, especially for new cyclists, is the pain in the rear end after sitting on a narrow bicycle seat for long periods of time. This pain can only be overcome by gradually increasing your time in the saddle over some weeks or months. Begin with short bike rides of 15 to 20 minutes in duration and see how you feel after that. Gradually increase the duration and alternate your training days with longer and shorter bike rides.

Cycle in the air!

Lie flat on the floor with your lower back pressed to the ground. Put your hands beside your head. Bring knees up to about 45 degree angle and slowly go through a bicycle pedal motion. Touch your left elbow to your right knee, then your right elbow to your left knee. Keep even, relaxed breathing throughout.

Get some cycling calves!

Place the ball of either one or both feet on the edge of some steps or perhaps the bottom of your staircase at home, holding onto a secure object to keep your balance. Smoothly raise your heels upwards, placing all the weight onto the balls of your feet, hold in this position for two to five seconds prior to returning back down, taking your heel down towards the floor.Keeping your foot in the downward position is also an excellent stretch for calf muscle.