December 4th, 2011 — Biking, Swim Bike Run
Bicycling is something which has been growing in popularity lately. Many people have been taking to the sport purely for race biking. This has been fueled by a higher interest in such televised races as the Tour de France. Many people have found an interest in how the sport has changed over the years. This includes the science behind the bicycles, the clothing which is worn and the fuel which is used to power the cyclists.
The First Races
It was not a long time after the invention of the bicycle that race biking was invented. This seems to be a natural progression seen most anywhere. These first races were competitions between cyclists to see who could cover a preset course spanning from one city to another. They started in the mid to late 1800’s. These are the races which have grown into such races as the Tour de France as well as races in Italy and Germany. The races which have gained recognition include ones which are on American soil as well. Every country has been responsible for creating some of the best cyclists the world has ever seen.
The Science of the Bicycle
The first bicycles used for race biking were nothing more than conversions of the standard bicycle. They used steel frames and thick rubber wheels. Everything about the bike was heavy right down to the chains which were used. Nothing about the bicycle was comfortable at this point and there were not as many gears being used for such things as climbs. Over the years, lighter and more durable metals have been found to build bikes from. There has also been a switch in the effectiveness of the brakes and the contours of the frame itself.
Even the handlebars have undergone a complete revolution. The original handlebars used for race biking were little different from the regular handlebars. The shape eventually included an extension which rolled under. This allowed the cyclist to grab lower and create a more aerodynamic shape. The handlebars which are used today even include a brace which can be used for resting the forearm and elbows while racing. This allows you to have good aerodynamics while taking pressure off of the back muscles. The rider uses skeletal support to ride the bike and be in greater comfort for a longer period of time.
Better Fuel for Greater Performance
Outside of the bike itself, the fuel which is involved in race biking has undergone many changes. It used to be the only thing racers would bring along with them was good old water. These days there are formulas which will replace enzymes lost during the race. You can even stow away packs which will give you carbs and food replacement for long term races. The one thing which has not changed here is the use of water to hydrate. Water has still been found to be the best way to keep your body going even after you have been racing for hours on end.
Photo Credits: mikebaird
Originally posted 2010-03-28 10:59:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Cycling Glossary Continued Handicap - Handicap races are quite popular in Australia, in them, the racers start at different points on the track based on their performance. âScratch Menâ are the fastest of the riders, and start at the traditional starting line and âout markersâ are the rest of the riders and depending...... -
First Triathlon Fashion for Women Dressing for your first triathlon can be a challenge. It's easy enough to dress to go running, but you'll be cycling and swimming, too, so do you choose one outfit for all three races, or change each time? The time you take between events counts toward your overall time so...... -
Guide to Buying a Good Beginner Road Bike People every year discover a joy never realized before in riding a bicycle. What most people face is a huge dilemma when they go to buy a beginner road bike. Even talking to friends about what they recommend is enough to blow your mind. You end up with a lot...... -
Choosing the Right Triathlon Bike pt 2 You are really going to want to choose a bicycle that fits your body perfectly, comfortable, and also fits your budget. You can buy an extremely expensive bike, but if it does not fit your frame, then it is completely worthless when it comes to meeting your bicycling needs. The...... -
Preparing For your Triathlon With the Right Gear Most people who are facing the concept of their first triathlon are wondering what type of gear and equipment will best suit them. Depending on your skill level, your budget and what equipment you currently own, your needs for the right gear will certainly be difficult. Assuming that budget is......
Online Stores
December 2nd, 2011 — Biking, Motivation, Swim Bike Run
The popularity of biking in America has meant an increase in how many children bike competitively. There has been a switch between those who bike for fun and those who are biking for a reason. This creates a unique opportunity for parents who enjoy biking and would like to share the activity with their children. You can sign up for family competitions and mixed age events which will allow your children to compete in the same events you are competing in. It will also give them something to strive for in their future of biking.
Keep Biking Fun
While more children bike with intent, it is important to keep everything grounded. Make sure your children are having fun when they are riding. This will make it where they will stick with biking for the rest of their life. Biking should be a way of life, not something which is a have to do. By riding with your children, you will be able to have fun in competition. Try letting your children win a few times in races. Make something fun like ice cream a treat for completing a challenging ride with a good time. You should still give some kind of reward just for trying so they do not feel biking is do-or-die.
Find a Club to Join
There are bike clubs you can join in your area. Children bike clubs are just as prevalent as adult clubs. These clubs help to teach your kids the fundamentals of safe riding. They will also go on great trips with the club. Some clubs do not have age restrictions. This means you can join the same club your children are in. You will be able to learn what they are learning and make sure they understand everything which they have been taught.
Sign up for Some Races
Whether you are in a club or not, there are bike races in your city for all ages. Signing up your kids in a children bike race is a way for them to have fun and get a taste of friendly competition. This is a great way to teach your kids the importance of competing for fun instead of competing purely for winning. Try to remind them when they lose that every race teaches them fundamentals which will help them in future races. Having grace after losing a race is important to a life of good sportsmanship.
Joining a Team
For children with more ambition, there are teams which they can join. These include teams which form in their schools as well as teams which are local. These are good way to go from children bike races to Olympic level racing. The only thing standing between some children and the highest levels of competition is the right instruction and the right opportunities. As long as your children can remain grounded, there is no reason why they should not be allowed to pursue every dream they have ever had. Let them pursue the gold if that is what their heart desires.
Photo Credits: MoBikeFed
Originally posted 2010-03-29 10:05:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
The New Generation of Biking Clothing Many people into biking can tell you about the days when all biking clothing was made out of spandex or some other kind of material which does not breath. They will also tell you horror stories about not wearing the right clothing while biking. The good news is there are...... -
Curious About What is Involved in Training for a Triathlon? For people who are not professional athletes but are still interested in training for a triathlon, the concept of training ahead of time might seem like a lot of impossible work with no guarantee of any rewards. In reality, training for a triathlon is something that is well within your...... - Preparing For your Triathlon With the Right Gear Most people who are facing the concept of their first triathlon are wondering what type of gear and equipment will best suit them. Depending on your skill level, your budget and what equipment you currently own, your needs for the right gear will certainly be difficult. Assuming that budget is......
-
Take the Biking Trip You Will Always Remember One thing many people look forward to every year is a good bike trip. There are others who have yet to take a trip of this nature. The good news is there are so many destinations for the cyclist you can always find a fun and challenging location to travel...... -
The Evolution of Race Biking Bicycling is something which has been growing in popularity lately. Many people have been taking to the sport purely for race biking. This has been fueled by a higher interest in such televised races as the Tour de France. Many people have found an interest in how the sport has......
Online Stores
November 16th, 2011 — Half Ironman Triathlon, Swim Bike Run
The Ironman is a competition which is reserved for only the most in shape individuals. People aspire to be able to compete the competition, but do not believe they have the level of fitness required to complete the challenge. This is why the half Ironman triathlon has been growing in popularity. You do not have to use an entire day to complete the race. You also do not have to go nearly as far with the half triathlon. This allows more people to step up to the race which is as close to the full Ironman as they are comfortable competing in.
The Distance of the Half Ironman
As you can imagine the distances for the half Ironman triathlon is about half of what the regular Ironman is. You will have to complete a 1.2 mile swimming leg, a 56 mile cycling leg and a 13.1 running leg. This is still longer than the average triathlon which means you will have to dedicate a lot of time and energy to your training.
The Trademark of the Name
For those looking to compete in a half Ironman triathlon, keep in mind that not all competitions will be called this. The reason why is because the name is something which is owned by the Timex corporation. Many organizers will get around this rule by calling their race a half iron length triathlon or something similar. This may be confusing for some people looking for this challenging competition. Fear not, as long as the legs of the competition are the right length you will find the challenge you are looking for. Most major cities will have at least a few of these length competitions every year no matter what name they go by and who sponsors them.
Training for the Race
Due to the fact the half Ironman triathlon is longer than the average triathlon, there is a lot of training which is involved in getting ready to complete the race. The important part of the training is to give yourself an ample amount of time to train. It is recommended to train for at least a year before competition. This way you will be able to slowly and steadily work up to the distances you will have to compete at. If you try to train at the level without the right period of time, you can easily injure yourself.
It is important to make sure when training for the half Ironman triathlon that you rest enough. Your body will become fatigued easier if you do not take at least one day off every week. Your muscles need time to recuperate between workouts. This will allow your endurance level to shoot through the roof as well as make it possible for you to train without injuring yourself. Make sure to also vary the training you are completing between the different legs of the race. This will allow you to get the right amount of training for every section.
Photo Credits: iamarkus
Originally posted 2010-03-18 03:45:35. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Strength Training for a Triathlon Strength training is capable of being a vitally important part of the training program for all triathletes. Maximizing the quality of your workout should be your prime objective when it comes to developing a solid strength program that is going to benefit your triathlon progress. There are a wide variety...... -
Joining Running Groups for Fun and More For many people, there is nothing more they need from running than the shear thrill of running. Others run for the exercise but take no special joy in it. Others still seek to run on a more competitive level. No matter what you are looking to get out of running,...... -
6 Tips for Beginner Triathlon Success If you are a beginner to the world of triathlon racing, then you probably have a wide variety of different questions. The best advice that you can receive as a beginner planning for a first time triathlon is to take it easy and enjoy yourself, because triathlon racing should be...... -
What Type of Bike to Get for a Triathlon There are a number of really important considerations to make when it comes to preparing yourself for your triathlon. Fitness and strength are two of the most important factors that are going to influence your performance as a triathlete, but the next important area where improvements are capable of being...... -
Getting Ready for the Triathlon Season Seeing snow everywhere and feeling temperatures that would make a bear run inside, most people would not think to engage in swimming, running or biking. However, the Decatur Multisport Club, or the Tri-Gators as it is lovingly known as, are starting the year by preparing for the new Triathlon season......
Online Stores