We asked some of SA’s top riders (and the mere mortals of the Bicycling team) how to survive the silly season with your fitness intact.
–> Be consistent, rather do a little often, than a lot a little. - Kevin Evans, Team MTN, riding for Team 360life in 2011
–> Use the free time you have to do some riding each day, and remember if it is a goal to keep fit, then keep an eye on your food and especially drink intake over this festive season! - Nic White, Team Medscheme, mentoring and riding with the Toyota Sypercycling Academy in 2011
–> Summer is generally the time everyone finds time to ride. So just get out there! - Burry Stander, Team Specialized Factory Racing
–> Have fun. Don’t ride for training. Ride to explore new paths, towns etc. Drive somewhere and explore a town and surrounds by bike, stopping for a coffee and then carrying on. Get serious again next year. – Mike Finch, Bicycling Editor
–> Realise that you will lose a bit of fitness over this period, but don’t beat yourself up about it. There is something to be gained by taking it easy for a few weeks, and your body will be raring to go come the new year. - Myles Kelsey, National Sales Manager
–> Get yourself a Campagnolo corkskrew, or better yet, ask for one for Christmas. And then every time you open a bottle of the finest, you will be reminded to get on your bike to work it off! – Neil Gardiner, Bicycling Gear Editor
–> Ride early in the morning before the rest of the family wakes up. That way you needn’t have any guilt at neglecting your family duties or having that second helping of gammon. - Kirsten Curtis, Bicycling Online Editor
My advise is plan the ride and ride the plan.