Sunday, May 2, 2010

More time spent in the saddle.



I finally rode some of the M7 bike track today and it was a really enjoyable ride.The sun was out and there was a slight chill in the air. Before I started riding I decided I wanted to spend about 90 minutes cycling. I have to start getting used to spending more time on my bike, and today was the day I would start doing just that. So I put my Ipod on, reset my speedometer and off I set for a 90 minute pedal fest.

My journey to my turn around point at the 45 minute mark was challenging. There were some flat parts but mainly it was a series of up hill climbs. Not anything too serious but enough so that you could feel the burn. I have to practice getting out and staying out of the saddle when my legs are burning.I was watching other cyclists just burn it up the hills right past me and they were all leaning right forward and had their backsides right up and out. I tried doing it but my legs just kept giving way and I would have to sit. I guess everything takes practice, and the more you practice the better you get at it. There were times I was even keeping up with some of the younger, stronger cyclists or even making up ground on the hills. So I was pleased.


The way back was absolutely divine. Even though there were a few hills to climb, the majority of it was a nice downhill ride. I love riding my bike fast, what a buzz. So as a result of riding faster on my way back I shaved off 8 minutes and only rode the bike 82 minutes and a total of 29kms. A bit annoying cause I wanted to actually make it to 90 minutes but nevermind. Next time I will just go further, no big problem there. Today was a really enjoyable day and it was great spending it outdoors. I never realised how many people I would see out on the track this morning and they were all nice. Everyone of them said "Good morning" to me. And this seems to be the norm wherever I am. Everyone I see either cycling, running or swimming acknowledges the other person. I guess that's what makes me like exercise even more.

My Baby - what should I name him?

I have finally found the image of my bike. This is him to a "T". Don't you just love him. I am still paying it off and probably won't have him till the end of June and I cannot wait to have my first ride. However before that glorious day I need to name him. I don't know why I think it's a "He" versus a "She", it just looks masculine. So I will have to search the internet for some names that do him justice. I would like something that represents strength, determination, courage, speed, bravery. Not sure if there is a name that accurately covers all of this but I will try to find it, because naming him "bike" won't do.

Your hard work will be rewarded.

"The path to a dream is paved with sacrifices and lined with determination. And though it has many stumbling blocks along the way, and may go in more than one direction, it is travelled by belief and courage and conquered with a willingness to face challenges and take chances" Barbara Cage