Cycling has long been considered a luxury sport, reserved for those who could afford expensive machines and gear. But in the last decade, it has transitioned from a hobby to an essential part of many people’s fitness routine. With the rise of fast-paced sports like marathoning and ultramarathoning, people are looking for ways to maximize their training. For those looking for a new challenge, racing has become a popular option. But what exactly is a “race,” and how is it different from a “routine ride”? Let’s dive in.
The Difference Between A Race And A Routine Ride
Let’s start with the basics: a race is a competition. Whether it’s a road race or a mountain bike race, there’s always a prize (or prizes) at the end. However, the goal of the competitor is not necessarily to win (although that’s always an option!). Rather, they’re looking to push themselves as far as they can go within a certain time limit. For those competing in marathons and multiday races, this can mean pushing themselves to the brink of health and fitness.
On the other hand, a routine ride is something you do just for fun. If you’re looking for a way to get some exercise, you might consider taking on a scenic bike ride with your family and friends. While it’s still exercise, you’re not aiming for speed or trying to beat your previous time. Instead, you’re just trying to have a good time and enjoy the ride. If this sounds like something you’d like to try, check out these great routes around the country.
Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, we can dive into how to prepare for a race. For those looking to enter a road race, the first step is to train with a bike coach who can help you improve your bike handling and help you manage your energy levels. For those competing in shorter distances, a good coach can help you with pacing and nutrition so that you can achieve your full potential. A road coach can also help you prepare for races with different terrains (think: muddy roads vs. smooth tarmac) so that you’re ready to go the distance whether it’s a flat road or a hilly one.
Racing As A Form Of Exercise
People are getting more and more involved in racing for fitness, and it’s not just the couch potatoes looking for an afternoon distraction. Racing has actually helped save some lives, as it uses different muscles than what you’d use to walk or ride a bike. It’s also a great way to socialize and meet new people. In today’s world, it’s hard to find a social activity that doesn’t involve being physically active.
For those looking for ways to stay fit, why not try out some of the amazing sports that involve biking? It’ll give you a whole new perspective on exercise, and you’ll be able to enjoy the feeling of a hard-won victory (or just a well-deserved break from work).
Of course, biking isn’t for everyone. If you’re just looking for a way to get some exercise and have fun, try out a different activity like running or swimming. Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try out extreme sports like kayaking or sky diving. Just make sure you do your research and make sure these sports are safe for you (especially kayaking, as it requires experience).
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a better athlete or just wants to learn more about the sports world, check out these reputable sources and let them know your plans.