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News Nov 20, 2008 Riding in the cold BentLovers & Friends The benefits of riding in the cold are huge! Get past the initial chill and the body does amazing things. As many of us ride to burn excess calories, the burner comes on big time, not only to move our bodies and machines through the heavier winter air, but to heat the body to proper operating temperature. The extra weight and drag of winter gear act as great training aids to increase our speed in the warmer months. We arrive in the spring ready to take the longer rides with ease. The scenery in the winter is great also! Turkeys, deer and other critters move freely in the winter and often cross the trails. We hardly ever see snakes in the winter! Visibility through the bare trees is improved and the trees themselves are more colorful and interesting. Ok, so what is the best way to get past that initial chill? Proper gear certainly makes the trip more fun. For the upper body, a fine wool undershirt and a breathable windbreaker are usually all that is needed in the coldest temps. Single or double layer tights work great to keep the legs warm (with under pants in the coldest weather). Keep the legs light as they are always moving. Keep the streamlining in effect to prevent funneling the cool air into unwanted areas. Leave the loose fitting garments at home. Select head and ear gear to be light and fit under your helmet. Again, thin and light are usually better. Pull the head cover down over the temple to keep the brain freeze away. Wear close fitting, wrap-around sunglasses to keep the eyes warm. Select the right gloves for the temperature. Too heavy and the hands sweat, too light and the fingers get cold. Two pair of thin wool socks work well for your vulnerable foot department. There are also shoe and toe covers to keep the, all important, feet warm. Remember to top off with a visible layer, such as a bright color (not red) or reflective vest. Use reflective tape on clothes, bicycle, helmet and shoes to alert the drivers. Too often we forget that visibility is the most important feature in all seasons. Operating rooms are usually very cold! Use front and back lights at all times and avoid excessive ear coverings that may hinder hearing the approaching vehicle or warning shout from a fellow rider. Hydration is very important in the winter. Try drinking a couple glasses of water when you are cold and notice the warming effect within a half hour. Keep the liquids flowing at the same rate as summer riding and you will ride longer and warmer. If you do shed layers, shed before working up a sweat, or you will be colder. We hope the above suggestions make your rides a bit more pleasant. So . . . any takers for a sub-freezing Rise & Shine Bread Ride this Saturday at 8:00 AM? :-) Jim info@ridesouth.com RideSouth.com 105 Avalon Court Brandon, MS 39047 601 992-2490 888 822-3647 Ride South . . . The Way to Ride! View All News |
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