Wintertime can be a real challenge - a constant fight to stay motivated when it’s cold, wet and dark outside. The little voice in your head seems to speak just that little louder at this time of year, and it’s all you can do to ignore the suggestion that you’d be far happier in the pub. There are a few things we’ve picked up over the years – including recommended equipment – so we’ve put together some tips and tricks to set you up for a great winter. Trust us, you’ll feel a lot better for it once the weather improves, and you’ll probably stay a lot saner to boot.
Focus on training
Whether it’s a race in early spring or a sportive in May, looking ahead to events in 2019 can be a little daunting with a seemingly interminable winter ahead. But having a goal and identifying the steps required to get there is a great way to structure your winter. British Cycling has some training programs available online, which we’ve found to be a great way to build up strength and endurance.
One sure fire way to ensure you hit those weekly targets, regardless of whether we get a return of the ‘Beast from the East’, is to get an indoor trainer. Turbo trainers ensure you can target specific elements of your training in the comfort and safety of your own home, even if there are two feet of snow outside. A smart trainer such as the Wahoo Kickr even allows you to hook up to online training tools like Zwift and Training Peaks, riding and racing virtual courses with others from around the world. Indoor training used to be a form of modern day torture, but these online communities really take things to the next level.
Keep yer pecker up!
A change is as good as a rest, as the old saying goes, and it’s true for cycling which in winter can feel like a bit of a slog. Those long, lazy summer days exploring new roads are a distant memory, and it can feel a bit like Groundhog Day as you ride the same routes again and again in the reduced daylight hours available to you.
If you’re a roadie, you’ll know all about slick roads, dark lanes and cold fingers – a risky combo. But by heading off-road, even if just along forest trails and canal towpaths, you can really keep things interesting. You’ll be riding slower, so the wind-chill isn’t quite as biting, but you’ll get just as much of a workout. An ‘adventure road’, or gravel bike, could be your new best friend this winter, allowing you to explore new routes but sleek enough for road and commuting duties when you need it. With wide grippy tyres, powerful disc brakes and lightweight handling, these bikes will remind you what it was about cycling that you fell for in the first place – fun!
Gravel bikes, along with the Giant TCX range of cyclocross bikes, could even introduce you to a whole new world of wintertime delights. Cyclocross, aka ‘cross or CX, is a great way to stay motivated and competitive all winter long. There are ‘cross races almost every weekend in parks around the country which are really accessible and, frankly, a brilliant laugh.
At the Bicycle Chain we’re here to support your winter riding. Pop in or call us for any advice - once you get the bug you’ll be wishing winter lasted even longer!
