Vivian G. (Marketing Consultant)

Thanks so much for yr advice pre-AIDS Ride. I completed the entire ride (330-miles in the hot sun and over numerous hills) and I can still walk without pain today. Mind you, I'm a bit slow and there is some muscle soreness, but I'm much better than I imagined I would be.

I used the heart monitor to keep me in check and paced myself throughout. I conquered each hill at a slower rate and kept thinking of that tortoise you spoke of. There were many, many much faster riders that would pass me. But, by Day 4, I was passing many of them and some didn't even make it every day. 

I balanced my fat and carbs (eating balance bars, high protein foods, peanut butter, fruit, etc.) and drank like a fish. I drank before I got thirsty. 

Day 1 was the most difficult (108 miles), but each day after seemed easier. I hit my stride on Day 3, which is considered the most difficult given the mostly uphill route. Go figure!

Thanks again for your words of wisdom and for suggesting the heart monitor. I bit the bullet and bought the more expensive Freelance monitor. I also purchased a copy of the "In Fitness and In Health" book through Amazon and look forward to learning how to improve my health and stay fit.