Solo Training

Unfortunately, I've been down a cycling partner since the big kidney "incident". Fortunately, however, I'm still really enjoying the training. For the past 2-3 weeks (essentially since the temps in Boston have been breaking 40 degrees on a daily basis), I've been out in the saddle 3-4 times a week. I'm gradually building up in mileage and went for a 30 mile ride today....alone. Frank did get out on the bike today but did so in the sheltered environment of Wompatuck State Park, doing laps for about 14 miles, where I met up with him at the end of my ride. He was itching to go further but, well, doctors orders.

The tentative plan is to add on about 10 miles a week for each "long ride". Turns out the South Shore is an AMAZING place for cycling. My recent rides, including my ride today, have taken me down beautiful colonial main roads, past 1700's farmhouses and orchards, along a rocky coastline dotted with Victorian mansions, and through a 3,500 acre state park. I hope these roads never get boring. So far so good.

We've also been "gearing up" for the ride in other ways. A trip to Wheelworks Bike Shop in Belmont this morning scored us some necessary goods...and also racked up a $500 bill. Yikes. I finally realized that my mountain bike shoes and pedals weren't quite cutting it so we finally invested in some real road shoes for me (on sale). Other items included a pair of knicker length tights, a sleeveless jersey, extra water bottle cages (we need 2 for the longer rides), and some socks. Pedals are in the mail.
A bike and cleat fitting are next to get me in good form for the tougher training.
We'll keep you posted...
Megan