Is it possible for a 28 year old beginner to complete a bicycle century ride

kefalonitis1979 · 01-15-2008, 07:53 PM

with 3 months of training? I would like to participate in a century ride on May 17th but I have very little biking experience. I am moderately fit and try to workout 3-4 times a week with interval cardio. I work 5 days a week 8-5:30 so I may need to do the majority of my training on the weekends. Are century rides for biking pros or is it possible for a novice to complete one (in a reasonable amount of time and without major injury)? If so, how long should I expect a century ride to take me? Thanks all!!

silverbullet · 01-15-2008, 07:54 PM

Centuries are not competitive, except for a few nitwits who aren't good enough to compete in an actual race, so they try to prove something on a casual ride.

Yes, you should be able to get in good enough shape to complete the distance in three months. I'd try to up the 2-4 times per week, though. 8-5:30 isn't excessive, you could probably get in a couple hours a day if you really wanted to. Ideal would be riding to work.......

Failing that, bike trainers are cheap and don't take up much space. Getting in an hour a day before or after work should be a breeze.