Rider Resources » Training Tips

Rider Resources: Training Tips

If you have limited time for training, pool it and ride 50-65 miles twice a week rather than short rides every day.

Begin some of your training rides in early morning. Ride occasionally on rainy days and in other less-than-optimum conditions so you’ll be ready for anything.

Participate in weekend group rides to become comfortable with other wheels just inches away. Group rides tend to be fast too – good training.

Train on the bike you will be riding in TdT. If you are concerned about bike fit and your riding position, get advice from a cycling coach, bike shop professional or knowledgeable rider before the Tour. Don’t make position changes without adequate time to adapt.

Ride back-to-back long rides of close to 80 miles as often as possible in the final six weeks, but stay within your weekly mileage goal. Riding long on consecutive days in training is the key to feeling good on TdT.

Get comfortable eating on long rides. About 250-300 calories per hour will help ensure all-day energy. Drink at least 24 ounces an hour (one water bottle) to stay hydrated.

Be comfortable training 200-250 miles per week for the eight weeks before the tour. Get ready gradually. You will be riding about 500 miles in one week on TdT.

Don’t forget speed. Training rides should include some rolling hills to sprint up, some escapes from farm dogs, and some fast tailwind stretches to help you turn a big gear. Making these surges, rather than always riding at a constant pace, will help raise your fitness and cruising speed.