With 2012 upon us, it's a time to look forward and think about what you want to accomplish in the new year.
Personally, I don't have an overall mileage goal that I need to achieve. My plan is to simply continue to ride my bike any time I can, and to look for ways to do that. For me, possibilities are on my commute to work; doing errands around town; going on longer weekend rides with my friends or casual rides with my wife and kids.
I track my miles in a simple spreadsheet, however, so I can see much I've ridden, and how that total compares year to year. I also make a notes that go with it, whether I maybe rode segments that went along the Mississippi River Trail or perhaps scared myself by hitting a new high speed going down a steep hill. It's enormously satisfying to watch the miles accumulate, and to see the total at the end of the year
For me, my only goal is to ride more miles in 2012 than I did this year, so long as that's compatible with family and other obligations. So that's not much of a "strict" goal, but something I'd be happy for since it means that I've spent a lot of time on the bike. And at least as many century rides as I did in 2011, because to my way of thinking, there is nothing that quite compares to an epic, day-long ride of a hundred miles or more.
Whether you ride for fun, for transportation, or for exercise (such as weight loss or general fitness) or competitive events like racing or triathlons, keep in mind that riding is supposed to be fun. Sunshine, wind at your back and time with friends and family. How fortunate we are to be able to enjoy this!
What are you aiming to accomplish in 2012? Any mileage or fitness goals? Or is there something else on your list? Comment below.
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Comments
My goal for riding this year is mileage oriented. I find it very easy to get bogged down by the every day to day events in life. I like your approach, not so mileage oriented as much as focusing on the enjoyment of riding. I think some rethinking may be in order.
My 2012 biking goal is nothing less than selling my car and biking the ‘burbs. My daughter can finally ride a geared bike and keep up on the hilly terrain of our Northwest home — and I am so ready to ditch the car! Happy 2012 everyone!
My goal for 2012 is to improve my peak watts on 20, 30 and 40 minute time trials indoor cycling. Will have to accomplish at by december because first I have to finish my education MA sportsfysiotherapy.
My trainer at Lance Armstrong’s 24 Hr Fitness is a cyclist. My resolution is to follow his training advice and be able to complete The Ride Across INdiana (160 miles in a day) in July. I’ll turn 71 just 9 days before that ride. I’m committed to starting the ride and doing my best but if I don’t finish it, it won’t be for lack of trying and it won’t be a total failure.