Here’s 10 things you can do to help prepare for a sportive.
Training plan
Get a training plan that suits your ability and fits in with your daily routine, check out our tailor-made training plans for the Ring of Beara Cycle here. http://ringofbearacyclekenmare.com/training/
Nutrition
Fuelling your body for a long cycle requires thinking ahead. Not only on event day, but throughout your training program. Different foods work for different people. Try and test different foods and see what works best for you. Have a good meal the evening before with plenty of carbs and a good breakfast on the morning of the event. But never eat something new before or during an event as you may not react well to it.
Hydration
On the week leading up to the event ensure you keep hydrated. On the day of the event carry 2 water bottles with whatever drink you are used to training with.
Have your bike ready
Make sure your bike is in roadworthy condition. Check the tyre pressure, brakes and gears on your bike to ensure they are all working properly. Fill your saddle bag with spare tubes and tools to fix a puncture.
Distance
During your training gradually build up distance and cycle close to the event distance 2-3 weeks beforehand.
Rest and list to your body
Rest is just as important as a training session. Your body needs time to recover and repair. If you feel burnt-out, low in energy or unmotivated take a rest day.
Pace yourself
Try not to get caught up in the excitement of the start line. Remember it’s a sportive and not a race. Avoid going too fast on the first 40km and then being exhausted for the last section of the ride.
Obey the rules of the road
Even if there are 50 volunteers in high viz jackets with red flags at every junction, it is the responsibility of each individual rider to look after their own safety and to obey the rules of the road. Listen to the marshal’s instructions at all times, they are there for your safety.
Arrive on time and relax
Get to the start of the event one hour before start time and find a parking spot. Use the facilities and relax.
Know the route
Make sure you know where the food stops, uphills and downhills are on the route. Check out maps here. http://ringofbearacyclekenmare.com/route-info/
