Riding with your significant other can be the best feeling in the world—or one of the most trying times in a relationship!
In my relationships over the years, I’ve been the stronger rider in some, the weaker rider in others. In both cases, I’ve felt all the frustrations. But after being married to a very fast elite racer for 10 years, we have finally figured out the balance between riding together and going on epic adventures while also having our own individual goals in sport. It takes a little patience, but the payoff is huge: It’s so much more fun to be able to bring a partner along for an amazing bike tour, enjoying food, wine and sunshine together! If you’re hoping to get your partner on a bike (and out on an amazing bike tour), keep reading for our best advice to make that happen.
Create a joint goal
There’s a lot of research showing that couples who exercise together and share goals in fitness, hobbies or adventures are happier as a result. (The exercise element helps with the happiness on a few different levels!) And while this esoteric concept of ‘being happier’ is a great overarching goal, having something specific on the calendar—like a bike tour in six months—is a good way to quickly get on the same page when it comes to exercising and training together.
Get (separate) training plans
You don’t need an expensive cycling coach for each of you, but some structure to your training is a good idea when it comes to getting ready for a bike tour without burning out. There are loads of free and inexpensive training plans and apps out there that will help your partner get prepared and confident for the trip. And remember, just because you’ve been riding for a long time, you aren’t an expert cycling coach!
Set some ground rules
There are going to be low points when you train together if you’re at different fitness levels. Decide ahead of time if you’ll wait at the top of climbs to regroup, or always stay together. Designate times to stop for food and water refills if needed. Always be clear about the route plan for the day (in terms of time or miles). The golden rule, though, should be: “Remember how you felt when you were where your partner is now.” Keep coming back to this any time you feel frustrated that your partner isn’t as speedy as you’d prefer, or is struggling to figure out cornering. You were a beginner at one point, too!
Don’t always train together
Similar to the aforementioned rule, it’s a good idea to keep your training somewhat separate from your partner’s as you get ready for any adventure. The biggest mistake couples make when one of you is trying to get started cycling is assuming that the more training together you do, the better. Ideally, you should do your intervals solo so you can focus on the work. For weekend long rides, consider doing a shorter loop with your partner, then heading out to add another loop on your own. This allows you to continue your cycling progression while still doing some training together.
Find optimal ways to train together
While some outdoor training time together is great, you can think outside the box to find ways to train together comfortably even with a vast difference in skill or fitness level. Indoor trainers set up side by side can be a nice way to train together for riders who are at very different levels, especially as one of you is just getting started. The same is true for gym time doing your strength or mobility routines. And of course, don’t underestimate simply walking together: You’ll be shocked at how much your fitness improves when you add some Zone 2 stimulus—a brisk walk—as a second workout of the day.
Pick the perfect destination
inGamba’s trips are unique in that yes, they have a lot of time in the saddle. But there’s also a focus on seeing the sights and especially enjoying the best food and drink that the region you’re exploring has to offer. Don’t just choose a tour based on riding routes, look for the one with the most tempting meals and hotels that feel the most in line with both of your preferences.
Consider an e-assist trip
If one of you has been riding for years and the other is at the very beginning of their cycling journey, a trip with e-assist bike options may be the perfect solution. Want more challenges? Some longtime cyclists might cringe at the idea of being on an e-bike, but really, you can actually end up with a harder ride than you would if you were on a regular bike! Simply don’t use the e-assist whenever possible. At the same time, your partner will actually be able to keep up—at about the same exertion level as you!
