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Runner coverting to cycling

Mar 18, 2009
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Hi there. New to the Forum. Anyways, I am a DII college runner whose running career is comming to an end in May. I have been biking (mostly road) for 5 years now as a recreational activity and for some cross training. I am curious to see what biking has in store for me and would like some help perparing for my first season on the bike. What types of injury concerns should I look out for? What type compeitive performances can I expect from myself. A little background on my athletic career thus far: I have been a durable runner logging many weeks in 90 mile areas and have done 2 100 mile weeks in my career. Physiologically, I lack basic leg speed (a major disadvantage) and have middling VO2 values (71 in decent shape). Thanks in advance.

Peter
 
Mar 18, 2009
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pjoien said:
What types of injury concerns should I look out for?

Repetitive-use injuries are far less frequent than with running; knee and hip problems are perhaps the most common, but these can be minimized or eliminated with proper fit.

In terms of acute trauma, all the attendant joys of crashing (including, but not limited to concussions; fractured collarbones, wrists, hips; lacerations; etc.)

pjoien said:
What type compeitive performances can I expect from myself.

It's hard to say, since competitive success parallels physiological variables less in cycling than in running due to tactics and teamwork, but with a VO2max of 71 (which is well above middling) and the capacity to train at pretty high volumes, I'd say you have exellent potential.

But put any expectations aside, and just do it!
 
Mar 12, 2009
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Hello and welcome to the greatest sport on earth. New to cycling then injuries won't me a concern as much early on as just getting used to the new pressure points of riding a bike. what I mean by that is where your body contacts the bike. You may have discomfort with your backside, hands/wrists and feet that you are not used to. Just remember that it get's better the more you ride.

Happy riding.