Do you need to hibernate on the indoor trainer during the winter months?

Definitely not, it’s good to mix it up, indoor training can be an effective workout with less faff but winter riding can be magical, with frosty crisp trails and if we are lucky a covering of snow it can really make you feel alive, it can also be cold and wet but with a little extra planning you can embrace the winter conditions and have fun.

Correct kit helps, layer up, use a moisture wicking base layer to keep your core dry, carry a buff to cover your ears and neck, pop on those wooly socks, overshoes, thick gloves and carry some spares, cold fingers are not fun especially when they don’t work to take that awesome selfie.

Over the last few years long cycling pants have become a ‘thing’ there is a reason for it, along with a decent waterproof jacket with a hood that fits over your helmet they are a brilliant barrier to the elements, my favourite winter item is a down gilet, it keeps my core warm while not feeling to bulky and packs away really small.

Winterise your bike, Mudguards although not aesthetically pleasing are pretty good at keeping you cleaner and drier, pop on some grippy tyres and reduce the pressure slightly, you can always keep them in the garage for next year once winter is over. If you ride on the road wash the grit and salt off as soon as you end your ride.

Check the weather forecast and plan an appropriate route, remember it gets colder the higher up you go, you lose 2*c for every 300 metres height gained.It also gets windier and wetter, pack your kit bag accordingly, if you plan a day out in the wilds maybe take a shelter, if you’re heading to a trail centre check their website for trail conditions before you leave home.

Did you know the highest point in llandegla forest is over 500 metres above sea level?

It’s really important to keep hydrated, your thirst response is not as active in the cold weather. As we breathe in the cold dry air, our body warms the air as it passes through our respiratory system creating a loss of fluid as well as sweating. 

Having a warm drink encourages intake and is a morale-booster in cold conditions, you can pop a small flask in your rucksack or use a thermal drinks bottle on the bike, whatever you choose, keep sipping!

Riding in the snow is ace fun, although peddling in anything deeper than about 100mm can be a hard workout, it’s good for the skills, you need a smooth pedal stroke to maintain grip and to relax allowing the bike to move about under you, the good news is it’s a soft landing if you get it wrong.Snowball fights and hot chocolate back at the cafe are optional but highly recommended.