We love to cycle in the winter, even if the sun is scarce, mist and fog dominate visibility, and the bitter cold infiltrates the hardiest of clothing. The La Fuga guides, spoilt by summer riding in the beautiful European sunshine, know that they have to put in more effort to stay motivated during this season so we have rounded up the reasons why our guides continue to cycle in winter, and spill the beans on how they keep motivated.

Reasons to ride in the cold

Winter training is the foundation of the season so try to make time to work on any weaknesses you think you have on the bike, and try to alternate your winter activity with swimming, running and core – you’ll thank yourself when the sun comes out again in spring.

Steve Houanard, European Tour Guide

1. Maintain the fitness you have worked so hard for over the summer months (remember that your spring goals will be all the easier for it!)
2. Empty roads provide joyous riding for your inner racer
3. Beat that pesky SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) with physical exercise. It’s proven that cycling makes you happy, so get out and about when the winter sunshine comes out.
4. Icy roads and mud are your friend, they will help you develop your bike hadling skills
5. So that the mulled wine/mince pies/turkey taste even better

Ways to keep motivated

‘Think about setting yourself a bigger winter challenge, perhaps a night ride or head to places like North Wales or the Peak District. At this time of year, it’s even better to ride with a group of friends on club rides as they keep motivation going and it makes the cafe stops far more enjoyable.’

Richard Mortiboys, European Tour Manager

1. Invest in the right gear, knowing you will not freeze on your bike will help you to get out in the first place
2. Remember that amazing feeling you get once you finish a ride and tell yourself that having that feeling is worth a few minutes of discomfort at the start
3. Use this time of year and the quieter roads to discover new routes, circuits which start and end at home are great at this time of year, as are club rides
4. Visualise your next big challenge, whether it be climbing Mont Ventoux or participating in Ride London, to give purpose to your winter training

See you on the road!