Getting motivated can be pretty tricky when it's wet and cold
Well, the warm season’s here – no excuse really now not to get out on the bike trail.
I’ve found myself becoming a bit soft this year. I’m not sure if it’s age, or laziness, but since my 31st year I’ve actually started looking at weather forecasts. What’s that about? I actually went out and met a friend last week, intending to head to Glentress for a bit of post-work mountain biking, and turned back thanks to a little bit of rain! Admittedly, it was the kind of rain you’d normally expect to find in certain parts of Asia, normally accompanied my the phrase, ‘Monsoon season,’ but still… No excuse. We popped into the pub instead. Not an altogether unpleasant alternative of course, but not exactly conducive to biking fitness and a diminishing belly.
So, that’s it – I’m getting tough. I’m drying my eyes. I’m manning the F up. Next time, rain or shine, I’m not turning back. And the silly thing is, I know that once I’m there I’ll love it, whether I’m coated in mud or baking in the sunshine. In fact, sometimes more so if the mud’s flying! It’s just the motivation factor after a particularly lazy and stagnating winter. I need to get some air in the lungs and some wind in the hair. Although, what with the age thing that’s diminishing too.
Time to enter a race I think. That’s generally the big thing that gets me motivated. Last year it was The Big Ben Nevis triathlon by the No Fuss Events folks, and I might go with them again this year. Perhaps one of the 10s, or even the Relentless 24. I know I’m going to do the Tour de Ben Nevis this year, but that’s a season closer – late on in September. I need something sooner. Something to get me off my lazy ass.
So, what’s on? Tell me what to enter. I need some shouting at. Give me an event to kick my ass. It’s not too late for this year!
Image: Placid_casual – Flickr
Looks like the weather is just starting to really take a turn now. I’m in the market for some winter proofing gear. Any recommendations? Right now I’m focusing on getting a crud catcher and some new tyres, full finger gloves and some better clothing. My pedals need changing too so I’m getting some dmr ones.
I know it’s all spend spend spend but I’d rather be prepared and keep riding.
Hey Chris, cheers for getting in touch!
I swear by Maxxis’ High Rollers, whatever the weather. Great rollers, but give you the grip when you need it. And gloves-wise, normally Altura for me – they do a nice waterproof, winter model which works pretty well for the more nasty commutes, so should do the trick on the trail.
It’s always spend spend spend with mountain biking I’m afraid, but at least it’s fun stuff to buy!
Colin