Weekly Workout Tip – Cold Weather Cycling

Stacey Richardson’s Weekly Workout Tip:

Winter cycling: dress for success

A long time ago, a fine roadie friend of mine taught me a few simple things about cycling through the cold winter days.  He told me that great cyclists always layer and if you are REALLY good, you don’t have to match.

Here in NC, we are great at clashing  but it seems very few of us know how to dress for cold rides.  It’s all relative, of course.  But it seems that my athletes need a refresher.  Heard this weekend while there was frost on the ground “Don’t worry, coach, my legs are numb now so I feel great!”

For me, it’s simple. Toe warmers stay on bike shoes from November to March.  Add neoprene booties for the coldest months and double up.  Wind block in everything else from jackets to tights.  Your jacket should BREATHE or you will end up like poisson en papillote (steamed fish!) .  Leg or knee warmers are a must for all rides with temps under 60.  Leave the tight gloves and thick socks home, as tight fits make for cold digits squeezed into shoes or gloves.  Gotta have wiggle room.   Wish I could say the same for my tight bike shorts! : )

Stacey Richardson’s Weekly Workout Tips
©TriStacey Coaching