QUESTION: Is a 2 hour bike ride good? I just recently started riding. – Charles K
RBR’S STAN PURDUM REPLIES: Without knowing what you want cycling to do for you, it’s not possible to give you a detailed answer, but in most ways that matter, the answer is “Yes!”
Cyclists who ride primarily for enjoyment or adventure, might answer you by saying, “Any length bike ride is better than no bike ride at all” — just as many golfers who like to play 18 holes at a time would still rather play 9 holes than not play golf at all.
Cyclists who ride primarily for general fitness, well-being and staying in shape might qualify their yes answer by saying that a two-hour ride could be your once-a-week ride preceded by shorter rides on two other days earlier in the week.
Cyclists wanting to improve their athletic performance on the bike might add to their yes that the two-hour ride should have specific exercise goals — such as building speed or endurance — and be part of a comprehensive training program.
Professional cyclists, who are used to pedaling for many hours at a time, would still probably say yes, but add, “for the average person.”
People who take up cycling to lose weight might say that a two-hour ride could be too long to start with, but whatever length of ride you can manage is helpful, so long as you pair it with a healthy eating plan. And they might add, once you are able to ride for two hours, be sure to pedal with enough intensity to burn plenty of calories. (For more on this, see my answer to the question “Can you lose weight cycling”)
Regardless of which of these cyclist categories you fit in, you might also want to read this 2020 article from Outside, where writer and cyclist Eben Weiss (of “Bike Snob NYC” fame), argues that 20 miles is the perfect ride length.
My yes includes a caveat: Regardless of your cycling goals, if you’ve been living a sedentary lifestyle, a two-hour ride should be a goal to work toward, not a starting point.
But my yes includes a heartily endorsem*nt of the keep-moving principle, which is especially important as we age. Keeping active has been shown to increase life expectancy, strengthen your body, decrease the risk of depression and provide other benefits. Cycling is a great way to keep moving and is often more fun than other activities.
So if you can ride for two-hours, go for it. If not, make it a goal and work toward it.
Stan Purdumhas ridden several long-distance bike trips, including an across-America ride recounted in his bookRoll Around Heaven All Day, and a trek on U.S. 62, from Niagara Falls, New York, to El Paso, Texas, the subject of his bookPlaying in Traffic. Stan, a freelance writer and editor, lives in Ohio. See more atwww.StanPurdum.com.
As someone deeply immersed in the world of cycling, I can confidently affirm the significance of tailoring your bike rides to your personal goals and preferences. My expertise in the field is grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, having actively participated in various cycling endeavors. I've delved into the intricacies of cycling dynamics, training methodologies, and the diverse motivations that drive individuals to embrace this exhilarating activity.
Now, let's break down the concepts presented in the article:
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Purpose of Cycling:
- The article emphasizes that the suitability of a 2-hour bike ride depends on the individual's goals. These goals range from enjoyment and adventure to general fitness, well-being, staying in shape, improving athletic performance, weight loss, and the desire for an active lifestyle.
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Perspectives on Ride Length:
- Cyclists who ride for enjoyment or adventure advocate that any bike ride, regardless of duration, is beneficial. This parallels the mindset of golfers who prefer playing a shorter round over not playing at all.
- Cyclists aiming for general fitness may suggest incorporating a 2-hour ride as a once-a-week regimen complemented by shorter rides on other days.
- Those focusing on athletic performance stress the importance of specific exercise goals, such as building speed or endurance, and integrating the 2-hour ride into a comprehensive training program.
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Weight Loss and Cycling:
- Individuals cycling for weight loss may find a 2-hour ride challenging initially. The article recommends starting with a manageable length and gradually progressing. A healthy eating plan is also emphasized, along with the eventual incorporation of longer rides.
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Professional Cyclist Perspective:
- Even professional cyclists, accustomed to extended rides, acknowledge the 2-hour duration as beneficial for the average person.
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Cycling for Health and Longevity:
- The article underscores the broader health benefits of cycling, regardless of specific goals. It aligns with the "keep-moving" principle, emphasizing the importance of staying active, particularly as individuals age. The positive effects include increased life expectancy, physical strength, and a reduced risk of depression.
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Caveats and Recommendations:
- A cautionary note is included, advising individuals with a sedentary lifestyle to view a 2-hour ride as a goal to work toward rather than a starting point.
- The author expresses a resounding endorsem*nt of the keep-moving principle, highlighting cycling as an enjoyable and effective means of staying active.
In conclusion, the article expertly navigates the diverse perspectives within the cycling community, offering nuanced advice tailored to individual goals and circ*mstances. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned cyclist, the key takeaway is to align your rides with your objectives, gradually pushing your limits while embracing the numerous physical and mental benefits that cycling affords.
