The key to making yourself love cycling – it’s all in the colours

Our Office Manager's Sarah's been busy with her DofE Challenge training. Here's her take on how it's going so far... 

The DofE Scotland Diamond Challenge has been at the back of my mind for some time now, but it was during the festive lull that I suddenly realised how quickly the event is approaching. Only 20 weeks left to prepare for an almighty sporting challenge involving an activity I really hate - cycling.

Panicked into action, I immediately bought a bike.  After a bit of research I decided a mountain bike was the way forward with its heavier tyres and frame, which are sure to help bolster my leg strength for when the big day arrives. More importantly, they also look much prettier. Sold!

Step two was to set up a training calendar.  I found some great examples of beginner training plans on British Cycling’s website, which I adjusted to fit around my own commitments.  Using a Google Calendar, I set up the plan which I regularly thrust in front of anyone and everyone who’ll look at it. It sends reminders to my phone and incorporates colour coded event tags to keep me right - genius!

After spending far too long admiring my masterpiece, I finally kicked my training into gear. Exercising five days a week looks pretty tough going, and much more than I’ve ever done in my life, but with recovery weeks planned in and sheer determination I know I can do it.

Then it dawned on me, there really is no point setting up a plan if I can’t monitor my progress and regularly declare how much of a machine I am. So I downloaded the Social Fitness app, Strava.  This is a great app that allows me to record any training I do, whether it’s cycling, walking or running, so I can log my improvements and set goals.  It also lets me connect with friends to borrow route ideas or get support and that all important ‘kudos’ for my training achievements.  I’ve clocked in two rides so far and a couple of runs but there are plenty more to come. Whether I like it or not!

It’s been a great start for me so far. There’s so many resources out there that have made it easy to get going. I’d guess that whatever you’re DofE Challenge is, there’s an app for it. I’d encourage everyone to take the plunge, do a bit of research and get going. You can sign up to your Challenge at www.DofEDiamondChallenge.org. If you’d like to support my Challenge, have a look at my JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/DofESarahsChallenge2016/.