Why increasing your distance is all in your mind

Yesterday, endurance cyclist Mark Beaumont completed the challenge of cycling round the world in under 80 days.  In doing so he rode on average 240 miles a day, cycling 7,031 miles in a month.  An incredible challenge which he completed in 78 days and 14 hours.  While many of us can’t comprehend cycling those distances, increasing your distance whether on the road, in the park or in the pool is achievable with a little training and the right mindset.  When I first started cycling I remember thinking 30 miles was a flipping long way and 100 would just blow my mind.   

I find by visualising the distance in small sections, just like you do if you are out of a run or a swim, increasing the mileage becomes a much more manageable and achievable goal.  Also, when I am training I tend to operate in time rather than distance.  For example, if I am going for an ‘out and back’ 30 minute run, I think about it being only 15 mins each way rather than thinking I must run for 30 mins or for a distance of 5k.  When you start to increase the time say to 40 mins and then 50 mins etc the out and back section increases but if you think in time and split it up, then it feels easier than working in kilometres or miles.  It may not work for you but give it a try, I find it really motivating.

Last week, I was forced to ease off my training after picking up a nasty virus from swimming in a river.  I was unlucky but not helped by swimming after heavy rainfall, which is apparently the worst time to do it since all the muck off neighbouring fields and the banks get swept into the river.  It was an organised event and from what I have read since I am not the only one to have suffered so while swimming outdoors is lovely do be careful of dipping in the river after major downpours.  I have to admit I have been very happy to get into a chlorinated pool this week!