5 tips to keep you motivated on your bike in winter
Participants in the Race Across Series in the rain in the mountains, an event that highlights resilience and mental strength in ultracycling. Edouard Hanotte (@edhanot)
Winter is often a tricky time of year for cyclists, especially ultra-cycling enthusiasts. Temperatures plummet, days grow shorter and motivation can easily wane. Yet it's an ideal time of year to maintain your physical condition and prepare for endurance challenges in the coming year. Here are 5 tips to keep you motivated and riding, even in the dead of winter.
1. Plan your outings according to the weather
Winter is unpredictable, but with a little preparation, you can take advantage of favorable weather windows. Check the weather forecast regularly and plan your outings on days when the weather is milder.
Ultra-cycling tip: Train yourself to deal with varied weather conditions to prepare for the unexpected on long distances.
Bonus: Use apps like Windy or MeteoBlue for accurate forecasts.
2. Adopt winter-appropriate equipment
The official Race Across x Wilma jersey, designed for ultracycling and endurance, here worn by participants during a winter outing. Edouard Hanotte (@edhanot)
Staying warm and dry is essential to enjoy your winter outings. Invest in quality technical clothing: a good thermal jacket, insulating gloves, lined tights and overshoes can make all the difference.
To equip yourself, we recommend you visit the Wilma website, where you'll find a wide selection of clothing to suit your needs.
Ultra-cycling tip: Prepare your bike with tires suitable for slippery roads and add mudguards for added comfort.
Consider adding powerful lights to your bike for outings at dusk.
Don't forget to wear visible colors to ensure your safety on the road.
3. Join virtual challenges
Race Across Winter, virtual challenges to push your limits even in winter. Ultra Never Stops.
Platforms like Zwift or Strava regularly organize challenges to keep you motivated. Participate in virtual rides or set yourself personal challenges, such as accumulating a certain number of kilometers or elevation changes over the winter.
ULTRA NEVER STOP tip: Integrate a program like "Race Across Winter" with themed rides and series of winter challenges to keep you on track.
We're organizing rides all winter long, so stay tuned and don't forget to join the Zwift club!
Cycling tip: Test endurance event simulations to fine-tune your strategy and mental stamina.
4. Diversify your sporting activities
If the cold or the weather discourage you, take the opportunity to try out complementary sports. Cross-country skiing, trail running or even at-home muscle-building sessions can benefit your endurance and strength.
Ultra-cycling tip: Work on leg strength and sheathing, essential for long distances.
Alternate between outdoor and indoor sessions to avoid monotony.
5. Set yourself a concrete goal
A highlight at the start: ultracycling is also about support and camaraderie between participants. Edouard Hanotte (@edhanot)
There's nothing like a motivating goal to keep you on track! Sign up for a race or event in the spring, such as a Race Across Series event. Having a target date will help you structure your training.
Cycling tip: Plan a progressive training schedule, including long rides to simulate the conditions of your next challenge.
Bonus: Join a training group or online community to share your progress and stay inspired.
Discover all our events: Race Across Portugal, Race Across Paris, Race Across Spain, Race Across Belgium, Race Across France, Race Across Switzerland and Race Across Québec
Conclusion
Winter can be a real challenge for cyclists and ultra-cyclists, but with a little strategy and the right tools, it's possible to keep motivated and keep riding. So get equipped, plan your outings and set yourself ambitious goals to start the new season in top form!
Don't let winter dampen your passion for ultra-cycling. Get ready now for the challenges ahead and turn this season into an opportunity to progress.
