Fitness Exercise -- Bicycling Training

For other non-skiing activities, fitness exercise should be designed to match the demands of the sport of interest, an obvious statement. I have found that bicycling uses much the same muscle groups as skiing, so most of the comments in my prior blogs can apply here, even to obtaining a copy of Michael Geary’s Avalanche Ski Training. Doing regular maintenance on the bicycle is important to make sure all functions work smoothly and correctly, and the tires are sound and properly inflated. Frequent rides with and without wind help “build character” and coordination on riding into a stiff breeze. One should also wear proper clothing to allow for the always present wind chill, and to drink a lot of water to off set leg cramps. Regular leg exercises can help greatly to off set leg cramps. Taking frequent rides will quickly train you to build comfort in the saddle, strengthen the upper body for various positions, and especially your hands as you vary your grip on the handle bars and shifting mechanism. I had problems with my hands going to sleep and becoming numb; however carpal tunnel surgery on both hands relieved this problem for me. Frequent consultation with physicians is important in bicycling. Also, there are a number of good books in the library and bookstores which address many aspects of the wonderful sport of bicycling.
As for other sports mentioned in the first blog, I will reserve comments for future discussions to follow. Thanks for reading this far. LBJ

Click here for Michael Geary's Avalanche Ski Training