Seasonal Bugs
In towards London today to hook up with a friend and lifelong cycling buddy for a spin in and around the suburbs. Yesterday afternoon's clear blue skies failed to persist until this morning so it was another wet ride with more than a few flooded lanes to deal with. All in all it wasn't a bad ride and I managed to stay warm, but wet rides like this aren't the best thing to be doing this time of year. I don't want to start the winter by catching a seasonal bug.
So what can cyclists be doing to avoid getting ill over the winter?
- Dress right for the ride. Layers and good quality gloves and overshoes.
- Take it easy leaving the house. Give your self time to get everything warmed up before you start pushing it.
- Head out towards the wind. Avoid getting the chill on the return run by planning to have the wind behind you on the run in.
- Keep your energy up. Avoid lack of energy during rides as this reduces your immune system's effectiveness. Research has shown energy drinks have a part to play in helping athletes maintain a healthy immune system.
- Keep yourself clean. Don't hang around in cold dirty kit after the ride.
- Keep your bike clean. Avoid mid-ride mechanical stops out in the cold by making sure your bike is in good working order. Carry spare tubes so your not fiddling with repair kits.
- Eat well. Eat a healthy, balanced diet and don't be afraid of putting on a few pounds over the winter. Use supplements if necessary, but there's no substitute for good fruit and veg.
- Rest.