Does anyone actually stick to New Year's resolutions? As much as we'd all like to get faster and fitter this year, a vague goal like that is never going to be achievable without specific action. So we asked seven cycling fitness experts to suggest some practical — and fun — ways to make small but effective changes that will result in you becoming faster and fitter.
- 10 steps to becoming a fitter, faster, better cyclist
- How to measure changes in your cycling fitness
1. Find a group ride… or create one
"There's a variety of studies showing that any sort of resolution — especially those relating to fitness — are much more successful when at least one other person is involved," said John Verheul of JBV Coaching. "There's a higher degree of accountability. You're not just letting yourself down when you don't ride, you're letting down your partners as well.
"Maybe you live in a place where there are no group rides or very few riders at your ability. That's okay; you only need one or two other people to start with as it's more about the shared commitment. Although, the more people you ride with, the more you'll improve at group riding."
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2. Treat yourself to a new piece of gear
If Santa brought you a new bike, good for you! You'll certainly be itching to ride it. If not, investing in something like a good pair of bib shorts will give you an incentive to get out the door.
"To make that new gear more sustaining as a motivational force, view it as a means to your end and keep that motif like a sticky note on your forehead," said sports psychologist Dr Julie Emmerman. "You could also attribute some meaning to the new gear beyond your desire to justify receiving the gift or purchasing it. Make a personal dedication such as 'The first 500 miles on these new wheels are dedicated to my (fill in the blank here with someone you admire/who passed away/is sick/injured/serving in the military or so on)'. The more personal, the better."
3. Adjust your day by one hour
4. Get a training plan
5. Get a training tool
6. Get professional help
7. Sign up for an event
You can read more at BikeRadar.com
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