Tick Tock - Last-Minute Training
We’ve all been there. You had the best intentions and a great training plan... but then life happened. Maybe work got crazy. Maybe you got sick or injured. Now, the CommonSpirit Denver Century Ride is just around the corner and your preparation didn’t go as planned.
Take a deep breath. You’re not alone—and it’s not too late to make the most of your ride.
Start with a Goal Check
Be honest with yourself. If your original goal was to set a personal record but your training didn’t go as expected, it’s okay to adjust. Shift your mindset to completing the ride, having fun, and celebrating the accomplishment—because riding a century (or any distance) is something many people never dare to try. Remember, you can always choose a shorter distance while on the course.
There’s pride in just showing up and pushing through.
Didn’t Ride Long Enough? Here’s a Hack
Ideally, you’ve logged at least one ride that’s 75–80% of your planned event distance. If you didn’t quite get there, don’t panic. You can still finish—but pacing becomes key.
Plan short, strategic breaks. Slowing down or walking (if you’re doing a ride with hilly sections or dismounts) can help your body reset. Use aid stations or scenic markers as designated recovery stops. Just keep the breaks short so you don’t stiffen up.
Trained for Half the Distance? Try the Two-Part Plan
If you only managed to train for half the distance, you can still go the distance with a smart approach. Think of your ride in two phases:
- Phase One: Ride the distance you trained for at your usual pace.
- Phase Two: Ease into the remaining distance at a slower pace or include longer breaks. You’ll conserve energy, reduce injury risk, and set yourself up for a strong finish—even if it’s slower than you'd hoped.
Coming Off an Injury? Get Creative—And Cautious
Injured? First and foremost: check with your doctor before committing to ride day. If you’re cleared to stay active, consider alternative workouts like swimming or cycling (if you're a runner) to maintain cardio endurance and time-on-feet without further stress.
If you can’t do long training rides, simulate them. Try splitting a workout—bike or swim for half the time, then finish with a short ride. It’s not perfect, but it’ll help keep your fitness moving forward.
Final Thoughts
The most important thing now is perspective. The CommonSpirit Denver Century Ride is about personal achievement, community, and the joy of riding—not perfection.
Stay realistic. Be kind to your body. And remember, sometimes, just getting to the starting line is a triumph worth celebrating.
