Training and fitness for biking and cycle touring.

You'll need a solid level of fitness to make the most of your New Zealand cycle tour. You will of course gain fitness and stamina on the way round, and that’s part of what the whole experience is about, but you can make it easier and much more enjoyable on those first few days by doing some training at the gym and on your bike before you arrive. You know what they say, planning x preparation = performance! We'll do the planning, you do the preparation and we'll have ourselves a great performance on the trip. So what should you be doing to prepare for your New Zealand cycle tour? Here are some ideas for you…

Spinning classes at the gym are very popular these days and provide you with a good foundation fitness for biking. That said: they are not the be all and end all! If all you do is spinning classes before taking on a big ride you'll find yourself doing the hard yards. There is no forward momentum on a static bike as you're not going anywhere, so get out on yer bike in the outdoors a couple of times a week and practice moving forward. You'll improve your technique, stamina and you'll enjoy your New Zealand cycle tour experience a whole lot more.

Energy – practice keeping your energy up on your bike. We suggest eating little and often to keep your blood sugar rate steady and keep your energy up for the day. We'll make sure you have a hearty breakfast before you set out on your trip, you'll have a good picnic lunch and a break in the middle of the day and you can stock up on all the carbs you need in the evening! Some people like to use energy shots like Leppin* or energy bars, but we suggest only using them if you have done so before, as they can play havoc with your stomach if you're not used to them. Not ideal if you're out in the wilderness!

*Leppin is a drink containing complex carbohydrates used widely by competing athletes in New Zealand.

In the gym – it’s a great idea to do some cross training in the gym to prepare your body for your New Zealand cycle tour. Doing a good weights session 1 or 2 times a week will mean that your muscles are well prepared to hit the road and your joints are well supported.

Outdoor Training – If you're not doing it already, the very best training to do, of course, is get on your bike and get comfortable. Cycle to work, to the shops, to your friend’s house, or just for fun. You'll find the more time in the saddle the more like second nature it becomes. Joining a cycle club or getting together with a group of friends is a great way to socialize and exercise.

Useful Biking Club Links

UK National Cycling Association
USA Adventure Cycling Association
American Cycling Association
USA Cycling Organisation

If you would like more information on our trips, or need some motivation for your training, then request your free cycling guide or give us a call.