How to Prepare for a London to Paris Cycle Challenge

Cycling London to Paris is one of our favourite Choose a Challenge adventures. Partly because it’s so different to everything else that we do. And partly because it’s so accessible to such a wide range of participants. It’s not exactly gentle. And saddle sores are a very real possibility for the under-prepared. But it’s also highly achievable for anyone who puts their mind to it, while still carrying significant bragging rights. And it doesn’t take too long. Making it an ideal choice for new starters and corporate groups. But it pays to go in prepared.

Three Tips for Preparing for a London to Paris Cycle Challenge

Make sure your bike is up to scratch

This is hopefully stating the obvious. But the one thing you need more than anything else when tackling the London to Paris cycle challenge, is a bike. And that bike needs to be in really good working order. Check your tyres, your chain, your brakes, and everything else. Make sure the seat is comfy and adjusted to the right position. And clean your bike to ensure that the dirt is not hiding anything you need to know about.

Train

Although this is a short challenge, when compared to many of our others, it is still pretty physically demanding. You will be in the saddle for up to seven hours a day. And if you don’t put in some physical training, you’ll find it more than challenging. So, spend as much time as you can cycling before departure. But take it steady and build. Begin with 30 minutes of cycling every other day. Then increase the distance as you become more comfortable. Try and fit in a longer ride at weekends. And don’t forget to ride with a backpack carrying similar weight to the one you’ll be taking with you. Your shoulders will get very sore if you don’t ease them into it.

Pack sensibly

The most important item you will take with you is padded cycling shorts. And for maximum comfort, you might want to ditch the undies. When we’re cycling for so long, that elastic can chafe. We’d also recommend:

· At least one cycling top with pockets

· A light waterproof jacket or cycling cape

· And a gilet in case it gets cold.

· A cycling helmet is obviously a must.

· Padding cycling gloves can be a really good idea

· Sunglasses are a good precaution, even in winter

· Arm warmers and/or a long-sleeved top will be useful, if the weather turns

· You’ll also need sun block

· Drinking water

· And some participants like to bring snacks. Although we always stop for lunch and evening meals

· To avoid delays, it can also be a good idea to pack some spare inner tubes and a puncture repair kit.

The London to Paris cycle challenge is a fast and fun experience for anyone who wants to push themselves physically. But it’s not massively expensive. It only takes four days from start to finish, so it’s not going to eat up half of your annual leave. And if you can ride a bike, with a little bit of prep, you should be able to complete the course. So, are you up for the challenge?

Find out more about joining a Choose a Challenge London to Paris cycle.

Call: 0203 773 4140    

Email:  team@chooseachallenge.com