10 Lessons Learned: Biking Edition

Here are some things I learned from a 23 mile bike ride I went on yesterday:

1) My sister is a bigger BA than I am...

2) Toms, while wonderful shoes, and comfortable for normal day to day activities are NOT the proper shoes for such a long bike ride. You might be thinking, well, no, duh, why would you do such a thing? Well, my sister asked me to go biking and I agreed but I was not prepared so my choices were flip flops or Toms.

3) Bike shorts are a necessity. I have the chafe marks to prove it. I need to go shopping asap.

4) One water bottle is not going to cut it in the midwest summer heat. Again, another, no duh. I need to invest in a camelbak. Now. I dehydrate so easily and by 4 miles in I felt like I could drink my entire bottle. By 6 miles in I knew I was in trouble. Beyond that I was lightheaded and thirsty and felt a bit nauseous. About 11 miles in I finally got to refill my bottle and sat under the trail map/sign as it was the only available shade around near the water. I wish I had a picture to show just how pathetic I was, but it is probably better I don't. 

5) July...is hot. 

6) Not biking for about 2 months and then going on the longest bike ride you have ever been on without really working your way up to it could result in mix results. My joints hurt and I felt like my muscles were jello after. But kind of in the good way.

7) Wearing sunscreen is never a bad idea. In fact, it is probably wise. That being said, if you are going to decide you do not need sunscreen, be prepare for very bizarre tan lines from biking. And then be prepared to be made fun of by the lovely people in your life for those bizarre tan lines. Okay, fine. Burn lines.

8)  Pizza...is not the best breakfast option before going on a big bike ride in the heat of the midwest. 

9) It is crazy how big of a difference being in a shaded area makes. Wow. It made me love trees even more.

10) As far as hot days in July go, I cannot do much more activity than what I did. I do not understand how people can bike/run in super hot weather. This was hot (about 90) but let's be honest. It could be so. much. worse. On those days you can find me in the AC. Or better yet, in the pool. 

46 miles towards 100 Mo Miles. 144 towards the 500 goal. Need to get another big bike ride in this week...this time with better shoes!