This needs to be said... if you plan to do train for something as big as daily 80+ mile days for 43 days, you will need to make time in your daily schedule. I know, it seems like a no brainer, BUT hear me out.
The time commitment you make to train and prepare for an endurance event will take you by surprise when all the sudden you have no groceries, laundry is piled up, and the dog is jumping on you for a walk. Daily rides ranging from 3-6 hours duration take their toll on your daylight hours. Of course I adore the time on the bike, but when you add in work with the training load, you're left with very minimal down time.
Your partner and friends will wonder where you are... you're out riding.
Scheduling time to visit with friends and carving out time with your partner are important. I'm not great at it, I'll admit. I've managed to do one happy hour a week, when work didn't take me out of town.
You will eat and sleep more. Resting when your body demands it becomes a must. I've been focusing on refueling when I get home from the ride, it seems to help. I also sleep with water next to the bed so I can rehydrate throughout the night.
*Temps on my rides are now seeing high of 100 and averaging 90F here in Phoenix. Dehydration is a constant consideration.
As we are a week away, I've completed all my bike overhauls. Today was new wheels, cassette, chain, new larger saddle bag, batteries for power pedals and heart rate strap. The only install remaining is new bar tape. I will ride with these this week and do a final deep clean & safety look over before we drive to California next Friday.
I'm excited, a little scared, and ready to take on this ride of a life time!
PS I've decided to fundraise for People for Bikes on my tour.. another post to come about that.
