Training and Safety Tips

Training Tips

Depending on your level of fitness, riding 3, 10, or 15 miles, or participating in the 5k fun run/walk might be something that requires training or maybe it fits into your workout routine. Either way, we want to make sure that you are adequately trained before you Go the Distance.

  • Adjust your training to your level of fitness.
  • Always hydrate before, during, and after training.
  • Practice your verbal/hand signals during your training rides if you are participating in one of the bike rides.
  • Familiarize yourself with and obey all the rules of the road.
  • The hills are your friends during training because they’ll certainly be there on the GTD ride.

Safety Tips

On the Go the Distance bike rides, nothing is more important than your safety. Let us say that one more time: NOTHING IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOUR SAFETY.

  • This is a ride and not a race. There is no clock. There is no “winner.” Don’t ride out of control or beyond your abilities.
  • Listen to your body, stay hydrated and rest when you need to rest. We want to see all of you at the finish line.
  • Always wear your helmet. Always wear your helmet. Did we mention to ALWAYS WEAR YOUR HELMET?
  • Get your bike checked out by your favorite bike shop before the day of the ride to make sure it’s safe and ready to go.
  • Except for the first portion of the route, you’ll be riding on roads that are open to traffic. When a vehicle and a bicycle collide, the bicycle (and its rider) ALWAYS LOSE.
  • Be aware of vehicles at every moment and follow all traffic rules and signals (including stop signs!).
  • Make eye contact with drivers at intersections and do not continue forward unless you’re positive that the driver sees you.
  • You need to have all of your senses alert and ready while you ride, so NO EARPHONES may be used during the ride.
  • If you want to make or take a phone call or send a text, pull over to the side of the road first. DO NOT USE A MOBILE DEVICE WHILE YOU’RE RIDING.
  • Ride single file and use hand signals and verbal cues to alert other riders.
  • When passing another rider (always on the left), be sure to call out “ON YOUR LEFT” in a loud and clear voice.
  • Alert riders behind you to debris or other obstacles in the road by pointing to the obstacle and calling out, “glass!” or “obstacle!”
  • You can learn more about cycling safely at Safewise.com.
  • Remember, nothing is more important than your safety!