A few weeks ago, I purchased a road bike. My boyfriend has been biking for many years and wanted us to ride together. Now, I have been in the gym for years and part of those years I had led spin classes (stationary bikes) that are very intense. Let me tell you what! I had no idea of the difference! On the road bike, I use clips to lock my feet into the petals. Clips are great cuz you can use the back of your legs for power causing the muscle to become stronger. The first time out, we started in Bidwell Park. While on his bike, my well experienced guy was patiently trying to teach me the appropriate gears (which I couldn’t seem to get!) and while looking back at me, one handed, lost balance and flipped over! Two bikes pass us by, offering their condolence saying to him “Don’t worry! It happens to all of us!” Well, he said it has NEVER happened to him! Scraped up his bike and skin! We continued, and then I fell over 3 times forgetting I was clipped in! (I think that helped his pride a little and hey, unless you have been clipped, don’t laugh!) Anyway, we have continued day after day, taking hard rides from Chico to Paradise, up Honey Run (which is a climb that you think is never going to end!) and riding flat lands with speed. Last night we rode at the park and he had me doing intervals of speed and stands. Oh my gosh! As I gave him the evil eye, he reminded me (laughing) that is how my clients feel toward me!
Because of all the running, spin biking, and weight lifting I could hold my own, but it is hard. Being out on the open road is so different. It is a whole new work out. He challenges me, yelling “come on!” making me grind and determined! The point?
#1. Training in the gym is great and essential. However, whether running, biking, whatever, being out in the world is a total different experience. Intense. Imagine being in the middle of a hard climb and everything inside of you cries “stop!” Guess what. No stopping. Can you imagine resting and then starting again on a hill?? Then there’s the constant watch out for cars, bikes, runners, walkers, dogs, cats, squirrels and potholes! And riding in traffic is unsettling and freaky!
#2. I am a personal trainer. I push my clients, and even though I believe I push myself, he pushes me harder, much harder than I would push myself. We get lazy. Having a good partner or hiring a trainer is essential if you want to get stronger, fitter, and reach your ultimate goals!
Laurie Jones
In home/gym personal fitness
Lauriesimplyfit.com
370-8228
