A Crazy Challenge?

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outdoorgirl

Nomad
Sep 25, 2004
364
12
nr Minehead
Very likely. Undoubtably, in fact. Well, I was always a little mad, but this one really is nuts. OK, so I'm 2 stone overweight and haven't exercised properly in 5 years - I can manage to cycle 320km from London to Paris over 3 days... can't I?... :confused:

What I need now is sponsorship, as yes, you've guessed it, this is for charity.

I work for Orange, and this year the chosen charity is Sense:

~~~
Sense is a national charity that supports and campaigns for children and adults who are deafblind. Deafblindness is a combination of both sight and hearing difficulties. Because 95% of what we learn about the world comes through sight and hearing, deafblind people confront enormous challenges learning about the world around them and face major problems with communication, accessing information and mobility.

Deafblind people are among the most isolated in our society, having great difficulty accessing the world around them – something that most of us take for granted. Sense exists to do something about this. We provide specialist information, advice and services to deafblind people, their families, carers and the professionals who work with them. Your support will enable us to continue to provide this essential service across the UK. Thank you.

For more information about the work of Sense please visit www.sense.org.uk (Charity No. 289868).
~~~

There's a handy website that makes it really easy for people to sponsor me, and to see how I'm doing: http://www.justgiving.com/pipsullivan

I'd really appreciate it if you are able to take a look, and sponsor me for whatever you can afford.

Since it's a pretty big target to hit, if anyone knows of any companies I can contact, I'm more than happy to wear a logo on my jersey in return for a hefty donation!

Thanks all,

ODG (Pip)
 
I think you're going to have a bit of a problem their. I suggest you get on your bike, or borrow one, and try cycling for an extended period of time. :rolleyes:

I remember when I got back on a bike after not cycling since my child hood, it did'nt half hurt ;)
 
TOP TIP>>

Get yourself a good pair of padded cycling shorts.

Think of it this way its only just over 60 miles a day, just 6 hours per day at 10 miles per hour for 3 days, No problem.

But the Padded shorts could be a big help. :theyareon
 
For goodness sake get your bum hardened up :eek:

You will not be able to get back on the bike for the second day unless you do.

How long have you got to get fit?
 
Well, my bum is fairly well padded right now (that's part of the problem) but yes, padded shorts are going to be a must... :)

I've got just over 3 months to get in shape. The event is May 17-20.

I've got a hybrid bike, and in fact that should be fine for the ride, as it's not a race. I'll start off with some nice short rides around the local villages, and work my way up. I've got an old bike trainer so I'll be able to cycle in the house while watching TV!

Thanks for all the tips guys - keep the good advice coming!

ODG
 
I was a cycle courier for five years, so I hope this helps:
1. get out on a bike NOW!
2. Do not overdo it. half an hour to start with is fine.
3. Find out about pre-ride stretches and use them.
4. Ditto post ride stretches.
5. Find out how to use your gears properly! Most people think that pedalling against resistance is good. This is totally wrong! You should use a gear that gives the LEAST resistance possible, and be peddalling at 60-80 RPM. (professional cyclists go up to 120 RPM, so this is not fast!)
6. Get your bike set up properly, by a decent bike mechanic, who knows what he is doing. This is very important to avoid knee/hip/back problems.
7. If you do not have toe clips/SPDS already, consider fitting them. They do take some getting used to but are well worth the effort.
8. Always wear a helmet and track gloves. (I speak from having been concussed for 3 months, back when cycling helmets were not available. Believe me you do not need that!)
9. Learn how to fix punctures properly and how to adjust brakes/gears etc.
10. Eat properly. Lots of carbs, lots of fruit, lots of water.
11. Start gently and build up mileage and muscle slowly. Do not overextend yourself!
12. All the best, Enjoy yourself. :D
 
Yeah, the thing to do is get out now and start building up. Go out a few times and see how you do and then put together a programme that's going to push you. For many it's not that far but if you're not used to riding a bike it will seem like it's impossible.

Good luck with it :You_Rock_
 

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