How to Become an Amateur Cyclist

Becoming an amateur cyclist requires a commitment to training in preparation for cycling events within your own community. Training involves a consistent riding regiment that works on speed and endurance. A healthy and nutrition-rich diet is also integral to your success as a amateur cyclist. Participating in cycling events will introduce you to a large cycling community and solidify your place in it as an amateur cyclist. Preparing for an event requires deep commitment and hard work, but the feeling you'll get when you cross your first finish line is priceless.

Instructions

    • 1

      Establish fundamental goals for your training regimen by answering questions such as: Why do you want to be an amateur cyclist? In which event do you want to participate? How far do you need to be able to ride comfortably? Answer these questions to assess how hard you need to work to accomplish your goals.

    • 2

      Visit your local bike shop and inquire about upcoming cycling events in your community. Search USA Cycling's website for cycling events near your community if a suitable event isn't taking place close to home. Register for an event that's at least six to eight weeks away to provide yourself with enough time to train.

    • 3

      Work on your endurance by developing a suitable training regimen based on the distance covered in your event. Do this by riding 75 percent of the full distance of the event once a week. Ride comfortably during these long weekly rides to avoid over training; for example, if you can't hold a conversation during a long ride, you're training too hard; slow down and take your time, as the purpose is endurance, not speed.

    • 4

      Train for the event by performing cardiovascular activities such as swimming, running and cycling at least four to five times each week to build strength and speed. Stretch before and after each exercise to avoid training injuries. Visit a local gym a discuss resistance training with a professional trainer for specific muscle groups, particularly in your legs, to strengthen and avoid injury.

    • 5

      Adopt a healthy diet; low body mass is essential to improve cycling economy, also known as energy efficiency. Eat meals that contain 75 percent plant matter and healthy levels of monounsaturated fats. Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants liberally, such as seafood. Acquire protein from foods that are rich in healthy fatty acids like fish, instead of foods containing high levels of saturated fats like beef.

    • 6

      Commit to your training and eating regimen to increase your success level during the cycling event in which you're registered. Take breaks whenever necessary to avoid over training and consult with a professional trainer at your gym or a doctor immediately when something doesn't feel right to avoid serious injury.

    • 7

      Register for more events upon completing your first. Adjust your training to suit the event type and distance.