The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

  I was put on beta blockers for high blood pressure many years ago. I didn't give it much thought until I started noticing that I would fatigue easier on long training rides than I had before taking the medicine. The weird thing is that the fatigue would come on suddenly and there wasn't much I could do about it once it set in. The ride home was pretty miserable. I discussed this with my doctor and he said that fatigue like I was experiencing was a side effect of beta blockers. He switched to another medicine and I have been good ever since.  Beta blockers are a class of medications that are commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure, heart disease, and certain types of anxiety disorders. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the body, which can slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure. While beta blockers can be effective at managing these conditions, they can also have a significant impact on long distance cyclists who rely on their cardiovascul...

Living in Lubbock, Texas means dealing with some of the highest winds in the country. But for cyclists, these winds can be a blessing in disguise – an opportunity to train and challenge ourselves like never before. As someone who has trained in high winds, I can attest to the fact that it's not easy. Cycling against a 40 mph wind for 20 miles can feel like a never-ending battle. It's like cycling uphill for miles on end, except there are no breaks and no relief. But it's also incredibly rewarding. Training in high winds is a great way to build endurance and strength, and it can also improve your bike handling skills. You learn to stay focused and keep your bike steady, even when the winds are trying to blow you off course. One way to use high winds to your advantage is to treat them like hills. When you're going against the wind, it's like riding uphill. You'll need to shift to a lower gear and pedal harder to maintain your speed. But when you turn around and ha...

Cycling down steep hills can be exhilarating and scary at the same time. Some cyclists love the rush of adrenaline that comes from speeding downhill, while others are more cautious and keep their hands on the brakes, afraid of losing control. So, which type of cyclist are you? Do you ride down steep hills aggressively, or do you keep your hands on the brakes, afraid that you will lose control? Personally, I'm somewhere in between. I enjoy the feeling of speed and the wind rushing past me as I descend, but I also know the importance of being in control and maintaining a safe speed. However, I know cyclists who ride all out when descending steep hills. They tuck into an aerodynamic position, let gravity take over, and fly down the hill at breakneck speed. They love the thrill of the ride and trust their skills and equipment to keep them safe. On the other hand, I also know cyclists who are much more cautious. They keep their hands on the brakes and use them to control their speed, of...

Caffeine is a popular stimulant that is commonly consumed by athletes and cyclists in particular. It is known to improve physical performance by increasing alertness, reducing perceived exertion, and delaying fatigue. In this blog post, we will explore the effect of caffeine for cyclists riding a century (100 miles) and how it can impact their performance. Caffeine is a natural substance found in coffee, tea, and cocoa, and is also added to many soft drinks, energy drinks, and supplements. It is a central nervous system stimulant that acts by blocking the action of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleep and suppresses arousal. Cyclists often consume caffeine before and during a long ride to improve their endurance, mental focus, and overall performance. Studies have shown that caffeine can increase the time to exhaustion, reduce the perception of effort, and enhance cognitive function in endurance athletes. For a cyclist riding a century, caffeine can have several beneficial...

Cycling can be an incredibly rewarding and enjoyable form of exercise. There are days when it feels like you are riding through Candyland, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. These are the days when everything feels effortless, and the miles just seem to fly by. It's easy to get caught up in the euphoria of these rides and forget about everything else. However, it's important to remember that cycling, like life, has its ups and downs. The very next day, you may find yourself struggling through a ride that feels like a journey through the Valley of Darkness. Your legs may feel heavy, the wind may be against you, and every hill may seem insurmountable. It's on these days, when cycling feels like a chore, that it's important to remember the joy and sense of accomplishment that you felt on your last ride. It's easy to get discouraged and give up, but perseverance is key to achieving your goals. Embrace the challenge, push through the pain, and remind yo...

  As a 68-year-old cyclist, I can confidently say that age is just a number. Despite being slower than I was 40 years ago, my passion for cycling remains just as strong as ever. Cycling has been a part of my life for decades, and I have no intention of stopping anytime soon. Some may wonder why I continue to ride at my age, but for me, the answer is simple. Cycling is a great way to stay healthy and active, and it keeps me feeling young at heart. It's a low-impact exercise that doesn't put too much strain on my joints, and it's an excellent way to maintain my cardiovascular fitness. Of course, cycling at 68 is different from cycling in my younger years. I have to take more precautions now, such as stretching before I ride and being more aware of my surroundings. I also have to be mindful of my body's limitations and not push myself too hard. But with a bit of common sense and care, I can still enjoy the ride and feel the wind in my face. One of the great things about cy...

As a cyclist, you may feel like you're in great shape and at low risk for health problems. After all, you're regularly engaging in physical activity that strengthens your heart, lungs, and muscles. However, it's important to remember that even fit cyclists can experience health issues, and to stay aware of the most common problems that can crop up. One common issue for cyclists is heart problems , including heart attacks and arrhythmias. While regular exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease, it's important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart problem. Another concern is overuse injuries , such as tendinitis, bursitis, and knee pain. These can be caused by repetitive motions and strain on the joints and muscles. Be sure to warm up properly before your ride, take breaks as needed, and use proper form and technique to reduce your risk of injury. Skin conditions are also a ...

I had someone tell me that they have a friend who used to be a very good runner but that their knees will not let them run anymore. They asked me to give them some reasons to tell their friend why to switch to cycling.  Here are some reasons why your friend should consider switching over to cycling: As we age, our bodies undergo various changes that can affect our ability to engage in certain physical activities. For many, running becomes increasingly difficult due to the impact it places on our joints, particularly the knees. However, just because running may no longer be an option, it doesn't mean that exercise has to be completely off the table. Cycling is a fantastic alternative that offers many benefits for people of all ages, particularly those in their golden years. Low-Impact Exercise : Unlike running, which can put a lot of strain on the knees, cycling is a low-impact activity that is much gentler on the joints. The smooth, circular motion of pedaling allows for a low-impa...

Here is another post in our series of Great Bicycle Trails in the USA. I have never been on this one but the tunnels and railroad trestles make me want to ride it someday. Have any of you been on it? Let me know by leaving a comment. The Mickelson Trail in South Dakota is a breathtaking 109-mile-long trail that runs through the Black Hills of South Dakota. It is named after former South Dakota Governor George S. Mickelson, who played a key role in the trail's development. The trail was originally an abandoned rail bed that was transformed into a hiking and biking trail, and it has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Mickelson Trail offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Black Hills in a way that is both relaxing and invigorating. The trail winds its way through forests, across bridges, and through tunnels, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, hikers and bikers will encounter a variety of wi...

Female cyclists are a force to be reckoned with. They are powerful, strong, and inspiring. Unfortunately, they are also subject to unwanted attention from men while out on their bikes. From rude comments to outright harassment, female cyclists often have to endure a lot more than just the physical strain of riding. This type of behavior is unacceptable and needs to stop. No one should be made to feel uncomfortable or unsafe while pursuing their passion. However, it is unfortunately a reality for many female cyclists. Some women even give up on riding altogether because of it. So, what can female cyclists do to stay safe while riding? First and foremost, it's important to remember that you have the right to be on the road just as much as anyone else. Don't let anyone make you feel otherwise. If someone harasses you, try to stay calm and avoid engaging with them. It's also a good idea to ride with a friend or group if possible, as there is safety in numbers. Ride toward peopl...

Bicycling is a sport that requires a combination of physical strength, endurance, and technique. It involves different disciplines, including road cycling, track cycling, mountain biking, and cyclocross, among others. However, despite the growing popularity of cycling worldwide, there is a significant lack of diversity in bicycling. The lack of diversity in bicycling is a complex issue that stems from historical, social, and economic factors. Historically, cycling has been dominated by European countries. Of course, this is a result of the sport's origins being traced back to Europe. This dominance has continued over the years, with most of the top professional cyclists coming from Europe. Furthermore, bicycling is often seen as an expensive sport. It requires expensive equipment, such as bicycles, helmets, and clothing, among others. This expense can be a significant barrier to entry for individuals from low-income backgrounds or marginalized communities. They may not have access ...

As I rode, I was reminded of the famous Albert Einstein quote about bicycles: "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." This quote resonated with me so strongly in that moment. I realized that the key to success in life, as well as in cycling, is to keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough. Throughout the climb, I faced many challenges. The altitude was high, the air was thin, and my legs were burning. But despite all of this, I refused to give up. I kept pedaling, one revolution at a time, until I finally reached the summit. The sense of accomplishment I felt when I reached the top was indescribable. This experience taught me a valuable lesson about perseverance and determination. No matter how difficult a situation may seem, if you keep moving forward, you will eventually reach your goal. Even if progress is slow, as long as you keep pushing, you will get there. I also learned the importance of having a positive mindset. During...

As people age, it is common for them to experience various physical ailments, including joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. For seniors who enjoy cycling, these issues can be especially frustrating, as they may limit their ability to enjoy their favorite activity. However, there is a potential solution that has been gaining popularity in recent years: acupuncture. I have used acupuncture a number of years and have always been happy with the results it gives me. I find that my joint pain is less after going through a session. I first went to an acupuncturist back in my 20's when someone said that I could throw away my blood pressure medicine after going a few times. Surprisingly, it worked too. I was sold on it and that is why I still use it today in my late 60's. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to help alleviate pain and improve overall health by restoring the ...

As a cyclist, there are times when you may find yourself struggling to stay motivated, especially when things seem to be going bad. Whether it's a series of bad races, injuries, or unfavorable weather conditions, it can be challenging to maintain the enthusiasm and drive that you need to keep pushing forward. However, staying motivated is crucial for achieving your goals and realizing your potential as a cyclist. Here are some tips to help you stay motivated even when things seem to be going bad: Set achievable goals:  Setting achievable goals is an important part of staying motivated and making progress as a cyclist. Goals give you something to work towards and help you stay focused on your progress. By breaking down your long-term goals into smaller, more manageable ones, you can create a roadmap that will help you achieve success. One of the keys to setting achievable goals is to make them specific and measurable. For example, instead of setting a goal to "improve my cyclin...

I recall a time when I was out for a bike ride in the park and met a woman with a story that left me feeling inspired. As we rode together, she recounted an incident when she was riding alone and a group of young men on bikes started catcalling her. She described feeling like an angry cartoon character, as the unwanted attention made her feel self-conscious and embarrassed. But as she continued to talk, she shared that she had learned to not let the negativity of others affect her self-esteem. She expressed that she hates the way some people try to make fun of others, but ultimately, what really matters is how we feel about ourselves. She encouraged me to recognize that those who try to bring others down are usually insecure themselves. As someone who has also experienced harassment while cycling, her story resonated with me. It's never easy to be objectified or belittled by others, but it's important to remember that their actions are not a reflection of our worth as individua...

Keeping your bike clean and well-maintained is essential for ensuring a smooth and safe ride. The Anndason 8 Pieces Precision Bicycle Cleaning Brush Tool is a great option for any cyclist who wants to keep their bike in top condition. This set includes a variety of brushes designed to clean all types of bikes, including mountain, road, city, hybrid, BMX, and folding bikes. The chain scrubber is especially useful for cleaning the often-neglected chain, and customers have reported that it saves them time and effort. I use the scrubber a lot and it has held up well. When I don't feel like using the scrubber, I use the chain cleaning brush and it works well too and is faster. One of the standout features of this set of cleaning brushes is its durability. The brushes hold up well after multiple uses, making them a great investment for any cyclist. The bristles are strong enough to remove dirt and grime but gentle enough to avoid scratching the bike's surfaces. Overall, the Anndason...

There was a time in my life when I used to go to bicycle events just to watch. I loved the atmosphere, the energy, and the excitement of the cyclists speeding by. But as much as I enjoyed being a spectator, I couldn't help but feel like a big blob. Watching all those fit, toned cyclists made me realize just how out of shape I was. At first, I didn't think much of it. I would simply sit on the sidelines and cheer on the cyclists, wishing I could be as fit and fast as they were. But as time went on, I started to feel increasingly self-conscious about my own physique. I would try to hide in the crowd, hoping nobody would notice how out of shape I was. Then one day, something inside me clicked. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I realized that I had the power to change my situation. I didn't have to sit on the sidelines anymore. I could be one of those fit, toned cyclists too. So I decided to take action. I started going to the gym regularly, working out and building up my e...

I live in Lubbock, Texas. Lubbock is one of the worst bicycle friendly cities I have ever rode my bicycle in. I'm not saying that people hate cyclists here. By unfriendly I mean that there is not much infrasture in the way of bicycle friendliness. We have some bike lanes but there is no rhyme or reason to any of it. You can be riding along on a bike path and then it just stops and there is no alternative. One of the most bike friendly cities I rode in was Santa Fe, New Mexico. I felt very safe there, even at busy intersections because Santa Fe has a vision for cyclists and put it into practice. With that in mind, I heard about Davis, California and how they are so bike friendly that 20% of the community actually commutes on bikes. Read on to see how they did it. Davis, California, is a small city located in Yolo County, just west of Sacramento. Despite its relatively small size, Davis boasts an impressive feat – over 20% of its residents commute by bike. This is a remarkable achiev...

Cycling is a fantastic way to stay fit, explore new places, and challenge yourself both physically and mentally. For many cyclists, the thrill of conquering a steep climb is one of the most rewarding experiences on the bike. However, if you live and train in a relatively flat area, preparing for a tour with steep climbs can be a daunting challenge. As a cyclist who lives in a flat area, you may be used to spinning at a high cadence and cruising along at a comfortable pace. But when faced with steep hills on a tour, your legs will have to work much harder to get you to the top. So how can you prepare for such a challenge? One of the best ways to train for a tour with steep climbs is to simulate those climbs as closely as possible. Even if you don't have any hills in your area, you can still train for climbs by using a stationary trainer with a steep incline or by finding a parking garage with multiple levels to ride up and down. There is a 10 level parking garage about 3 miles from ...

Cycling is an excellent way for seniors to stay active and healthy. However, starting a new exercise routine can be intimidating, especially for seniors who may not have exercised regularly in the past. It's common for seniors to feel like a big gorilla when they first start riding a bicycle. But with consistent training and persistence, seniors can start feeling like a lion instead. When seniors first start riding a bicycle, they may feel weak, uncoordinated, and unsure of their abilities. They may feel like they are struggling to keep up with others or like they are holding others back. This feeling can be discouraging and may even cause seniors to give up on cycling altogether. However, with consistent training and practice, seniors can gradually build up their strength and endurance, and start feeling more confident on their bicycles. They can start setting and achieving new goals, whether it's riding longer distances or climbing steeper hills. Over time, senio...

"As a cyclist, you know that training and nutrition are essential for improving your performance. But did you know that coffee can also give you a boost? That's right, coffee is a popular choice among cyclists for its ability to improve energy, focus, endurance, and recovery. How does coffee benefit cyclists? Increased energy and focus: Caffeine is a natural stimulant that can help you feel more alert and focused during your ride. This can be especially helpful during long rides or when you're feeling tired. Improved endurance: Caffeine can help delay fatigue and improve your ability to ride longer and harder. This is because caffeine blocks the production of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that makes you feel tired. Enhanced fat burning: Caffeine can help you burn more fat during exercise. This can be helpful for cyclists who are looking to lose weight or improve their body composition. Increased metabolism: Caffeine can also increase your metabolism, which means you bur...