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Winter Bike Blues

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I saw this video today and it inspired me. It’s not about cycling, but you can easily substitute the snowboard for a bike:

What resonated with me is not necessarily clearing your desk off, and heading out the door on a wild adventure right this second, but instead, planning out WHERE you’d like to go next, and getting inspired. If you’re like me, you have a 50 degree rule. Anything less than that often includes ice and falls, so I stick inside. Given that, how do we stoke the cycling fire through the winter months?

Get inspired

2014 is YOUR year. Go ahead, think big. Gather your girlfriends and join Trek Travel for an affordable ride camp in Solvang, ride in Mallorca, or, pick at least two cycling events to participate in this summer (and of course, I do hope that Venus de Miles on July 28th is one of them.) Pick up Chicago Athlete’s Annual Event Guide or Competitor Magazine’s Keeper edition and choose some events that speak to your soul, will challenge you, and allow you to spend time with your girlfriends.

Get cross-trained

I recently discovered Crossfit and I am hooked. Once the cycling season starts, I’ll be ready to ride; take a Nia class, pilates, yoga, spinning – anything, just get your body moving, and whenever possible, incorporate strength training into your weekly routine

Get educated

Now’s a great time to take a mechanic’s class, read about bike paths to explore, and get involved with organizations like Active Transportation Alliance and the League of Illinois Bicyclists, who are doing great things for cycling in the state.

Get geared up

Make sure you have all of your essentials in place for this year – sunglasses, shorts, bibs, jerseys, vests, jackets, helmets, gloves, etc. I recently discovered Nuu-Muu, who make cycling dresses, or check out other feminine, flirty cycling options.

Get your plan in place

Your training plan should start now for your summer goals. Hire a coach, a training company like Vision Quest Coaching or check Bicycling’s websitefor training tips and plans.

Get a trainer

Indoor cycling at home doesn’t have to be boring. Pick up a trainer, prop your bike up, and put a movie on.

Get in tune

Take your bike to your local bike shop and have it tuned-up, so you’re ready to go!

Get connected

I love the Chainlink, which is your one-stop shop for Chicago cycling news, events, and tips.

Teresa Robbins
An avid cyclist, Teresa also knew she wanted to create something to encourage women to get outside on their bikes and support a meaningful cause – Venus de Miles was born. Since its inception, Colorado’s first all-women’s road ride, which is orchestrated by and benefits Greenhouse Scholars, has raised $380,981 for the organization. 

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Comments

  4. Jenna Wood says

    I think staying conditioned all year round, especially in the Winter months, is key to having a great cycling year. Thanks for the great tips!

  5. Sofia says

    I’ve never really worked out in my life. But I am starting!! I am going slow and getting used to it (today will be day 3). I would love to do some cycling or yoga 🙂 ButI have to wait a bit longer for my body to be used to it (plus my muscles shake like crazy while I work out, they are not strong enough…yet).

  7. Nicole B says

    I got a bike last summer hoping to get into a race (a fun one, not competitive). But it just didn’t happen. It’s on my To Do list for this year.

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