It was the first day of the new year and today was as good a day as any to begin my cycling lifestyle transformation. Never mind that it was 25 degrees outside. The roads were relatively clear. I had the day off from work and I needed a break from the unending questions from my kids. I geared up (more to come on that), pulled my bike off the garage wall, clipped in and set of on my first ride.
I noticed a couple things immediately:
1. I was cold! Even with insulated tights, several layers, a riding cap etc, I was chilly. My gloves were sub par and I couldn't find my glasses. My eyes began to water as soon as I got up to speed.
2. I am more out of shape than I thought. I barely got out of the neighborhood when my thighs began to burn.
I did a short 3 mile circuit and pulled back into my driveway still able to feel 3/5 five fingers on each hand. My tears were not frozen but they were sluggish in their decent down my cheeks. Average speed: 12.3 mph.
Later on in the day, I really needed a break from the kids after my wife spent a few hours out shopping. I suited up again and rode the same loop. Still 25 degrees. I did find my glasses so that helped keep my eyes from burning and watering the whole time. My thighs felt the same. Overall though, not a bad day one. A little under 6 miles at an average of about 13 mph in 25 degree weather. It is only supposed to get colder and seeing that it is already getting dark by the time I get home from work, this might be the only ride before the weekend.
Based on these two rides today I have decided I need the following:
Better gloves
Better glasses
Cycling Jacket
Toe warmers
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