First organized event of the season

[prolesunited]

I did the Folks of Spokes Easter ride Sunday in far south Chicago 'burbs/country. The longest route, which I did, was 65 miles. It was a gorgeous day, albeit a little chilly in the morning. There were some sections of rollers to get your heart pumping, but no killers.

My indoor training paid off as I rode an average speed of 15 mph (not impressive but not bad for a first outing). There was some wind, so a pace line would have helped, but I usually ride alone (if I can't drag Jason with me).

I wasn't too sore, so I actually did another 25 miles today. It feels so freakin' good to be out of the basement!

One discovery I made is that also taking up yoga and pilates has been very beneficial. I use a heart rate monitor and if I get up to my max, I can really focus my breathing to quickly bring it down.

We're both registered for Bike the Drive at the end of May. If you live anywhere near the Chicago area (or could get there during Memorial weekend) I would highly recommend it. It's an awesome ride. Too bad we don't own the roads every day.

[wtmusic]

1. 15 mph is cruising for the first ride of the year

Do you train on rollers in the off season?

[prolesunited]

2. I have a Kurt Kinetic trainer

I started to work out on it about three or four times a week at the end of January. It made a big difference.

If conditions are right and I'm feeling well, I plan on doing a century May 7. Now that the weather is getting better, it's nice to be outside, but it's nice to have that option to train inside year-long.