Tuesday 2 June 2015

My road to recovery

I am soooooo sorry for my absence of late, things got so crazy with coursework and inevitably, I cannot ride at the moment. I'm pretty sure I mentioned the back injury I sustained as a result of a car crash last November in a previous blog post, but it just hasn't gone away! So over the Easter holidays I tried doing a normal bout of training, several 50+ milers which I would never have a problem with normally. BUT, with all provoking long-term injuries, mine came back with vengeance. 

Maybe I was too soon to expect my body to be able to cope with the demands I put on it pre-accident, but I had the confidence to think my body would be able to withstand the miles. Within 10 miles on one particular ride, my back was aching from my neck down to my lumbar (lower) spine. I felt a dull, continuous pain which would become a sharper pain on every upward stroke of the pedal, making it extremely difficult when climbing hills. Luckily I knew this wasn't a normal 'warming up' or 'settling in' pain as a result of a break off the bike, this was my body urging me to stop. 

At this point, I felt defeated and angry at myself for having to turn around, 10 miles into a steady ride. By the time I was several miles from my house, I could barely hold my head up to look forward due to the pain travelling up my neck. I did not know this type of pain or fatigue, I was utterly in shock. Had I lost all my fitness? Would I ever be able to ride again?
The next few days were just as bad- I could not inhale without sharp pains around my rib cage. I was stuck inside due to the pain of moving, twisting and even breathing. I put the pain down to the intercostal (ribs) muscles being worked during the session, leading to the pain. 

I knew this wasn't like me and made another appointment with my GP. The Doctor told me that with whiplash, the extent of the injuries can flare up when they are put under strain and that I am likely to suffer for up to 18months. I can honestly say I had to fight back the tears at this point.. how do you sit there and accept that this accident can stop me from doing the one thing that I love?

I got referred to a physiotherapist who was really good, she is currently working with me to get me back on track. She advised that I stop riding (I know, I did well to not cry, unless it is a bike with a supportive back, such as those in a gym. So here I am, I've just bought a swimsuit and am going to start swimming as of this week! 

The accident took over my control of my life, which is why I am adamant to get fitter, stronger and healthier than I have been before. I think that swimming will be beneficial for stretching out my back whilst letting me relax and time out. As you can imagine, I am driving myself crazy not being able to ride. I've even doubted whether I will be capable of getting back out there on my own.. which is why I chose to regain my control and do the things that I can to achieve my goal of getting back on my bike.

Even if it takes months or even a year, I am determined to try everything I can to get back on my bike. So I think it would be beneficial for me to share my journey of recovery, with the aim that I will get back on the bike! So look out for weekly updates on my progress (sorry this was a long post- a lot has happened!) 

Feel free to comment below if you have been on a recent journey or have any tips :-) 

Thursday 23 April 2015

10 tips for newbie cyclists!

Taking up a new sport can be an exciting and motivating time, but sometimes you may find yourself with questions you don't know the answer to.."How do I pee in these shorts?!"
Fear not, I have thought of 10 tips that will help you get through your transition into cycling, whether you are starting as a beginner or returning to the sport! 



1. Cycling buddies
Cycling can really change lives. Not only is it a hobby, way of travel, escapism for many people..it can provide freedom and hope for people who are coming to the sport for a change in lifestyle. Whatever journey you're on, having friends and a support network who can relate to the nature of cycling will help when your motivation is wandering during the cold winter nights. The picture above is of me and a few other women from my cycling club. Honestly? That was one of the best days of my life. I've never experienced such an empowering, proud sensation that I felt that day.. from the start to the crippling finish! There's something about having someone beside you throughout the grit and hard times, but also someone who can share the good, positive aspects of the sport. I'd definitely recommend getting a buddy or two to tag along, even if it is a little 10 mile bimble along the path with a cafe stop! It makes the miles go a lot quicker when you're wanting to go home.


2. Explore
This aspect took me a while to accustom to! When I began cycling again at the age of 15, I was petrified of getting lost and not being able to find my way home. Although this did happen several times, I always had an interesting experience discovering new land and routes that I had never seen before. There was something quite intriguing about leaving my house and not knowing where I would end up several hours later. I would recommend just going out when you feel like it and riding where you want to. Some days I fancy a dose of fresh air, so I head for the Gower, where it is surrounded by sea and hills. The picture above is of the Black Mountains near the Brecon Beacons. I suggest riding to the top and enjoying the breathtaking view that you have on the top. It's very rewarding when you can see how far you have come & the beautiful sights that can be viewed because you worked hard to get there. 


3. Family
With any big step in your life, it can be a nice feeling to involve your family throughout your journey. The photo above shows my little sister and I outside on the turbo trainer. Not only can it be good for company, it can provide moral support and also a friendly face when they come and support you if you take part in any events or challenges! My involvement with my family means that we all look forward to going out on the bikes together leisurely. It can be a nice way to share your goals and talk about your interests. I mean, who else would we count on to run you a nice hot bubble bath when you return home from a freezing ride! 


4. Support local events and teams
The photo above was taken in the 2012 Olympic games, we walked to the top of Box Hill to see the men's road race. Support is always welcomed by events and clubs/teams such as volunteering, marshaling, coaching or making teas/cakes post race. Not only is this a way of giving to the community, you also get to communicate with cyclists from all different backgrounds with a cuppa and a homemade cake..what more could you want? It is an excellent to meet people and socialise with those who share common interests. 


5. Join a club
When I took up cycling again, I joined Bynea Cycling Club in Llanelli. I'm not saying you have to join a club to enjoy cycling or to become successful, however, I think it helps if you are starting the sport on your own. Group rides can be so fun, they bring out all sorts of cyclists.. (I'll leave this for another post!) Not only can you meet new people and making life long cycling friends, you can also learn a from riding with others. Basic skills like riding in a group, when to drink and fixing punctures are all things that most learnt whilst out with a group. There is also the chance to see how you've improved in comparison to when you started. 


6. Eat well & rest well
It may sound cliche but, I have learnt the hard way how important it is to be drinking when you're out and about on the bike (for however long). I was doing a lot of training in several different sports and found that my legs would be shot by the time the weekend came. Not so much a problem if I was only doing a shorter ride, but not ideal on longer rides. I have 'bonked'/ hit the wall (low glycogen stores) several times on a ride due to my lack of preparation leading up to a ride and also during the ride. It is vital that you eat well at least 2 days before a ride, especially if you know it is going to be taxing or if you've had a hard week training. You may be great at eating pre ride and during the ride, but you should also focus on drinking adequate amounts of fluid. Aim to drink before the ride, ensuring that you feel hydrated when you get on the bike. As long as you keep sipping every 15-20 minutes, you will minimise the risk of dehydration caused by sweating, especially during warmer climates. 


7. Just do it!
I wish I was the type of person who had no fear and could throw themselves into anything..but I'm not. But, I want you to have the confidence to give your best shot at anything you want to do! There will always be the memories where you wish you had tried harder, or given something a shot, but you didn't because you were too afraid. I'm starting to learn that fear can be used as a good thing, not necessary something that should stop you from doing something. So what if you're not as fast as you'd hoped? You're out there, you've got the motivation to rise to the challenge and you're investing in yourself - trying to be a fitter, stronger version than you were previously. So if there is some event or a challenge that you fancy, don't even think about the reasons not to do it, life is too short! Get your beast mode on & do something you love!


8. Look around for kit that you like
I'm 5'10 and quite bean-pole-like. I have tried many different cycling clothing brands and have a few that I like. I would suggest talking to others who possibly wear kit that you like or who are a similar body stamp to you & ask their opinions on what kit they like. I love the DHB & Sportful kit, as I think they fit nice on taller people. Sportful also do some lovely women's clothing, which is always a bonus after having to wear mostly uni-sex! Also try and find some bargains such as looking for summer kit during the winter months or when a new range of clothing comes out. Cycling shows and expeditions sometimes sell their clothing cheap to attract people into their stalls in the festivals. This can be a good way of picking up some decent kit. Second hand kit is also an option, as jerseys and gilet's may only have been worn a few times & keep their quality quite well. Shorts can wear out, leaving the padding unsupportive when buying second hand, so beware of this. 


9. Learn the tricks of the trade
How ridiculous do I look above? At 15, I didn't know how to even detect a puncture let alone how to fix one! Luckily, I was riding with friends from the club and they came to my rescue! Although you may not want to, it is a good quality to have if you can change your own puncture on a ride. Not only will it make you independent, you also don't have to worry if you're out on your own. Many cycling clubs do maintenance sessions, where you can drop in and observe how to change a puncture or fix something on your bike. Learning these tricks will make you a clever rider, ensuring you can be as safe as possible when you're out! (Not relying on your friend to save you - although that can be very, very nice :-)) 
10. Have fun! 
Best of all, enjoy what you're doing & have the best fun that you can! Riding along the country lanes or coastal paths can be so peaceful, whilst descending down a mountain at 40+mph is the most exhilarating thing I've ever experienced! Even if you're having a horrible day, you can count on your bike to make you feel that much more happier. It'll always be there for you, as long as you take care of it :-) 

I hope my tips will help you when you're out gallivanting on your two wheeler..or one..whatever floats your boat :-) 

Thanks for reading x


Wednesday 15 April 2015

Motivational quotes

Goooood evening readers! 

Lately I've been working on trying to improve my motivation, as it has taken a bit of a dive of late! Everyone has their off days and I'm trying to keep everything in perspective & take everything life throws at me in my stride (a very long one at that!) So today I thought I'd share some of my favourite quotes with you guys! 
 









These photos don't really follow a common theme..but, I love the message that they portray. 

Keep dreaming people! 
<3 


Tuesday 14 April 2015

Dhb SS15 blok range!

With my holiday to France rapidly approaching, I gave into temptation and purchased two short sleeved jerseys from the dhb's SS15 range! I own a few pieces of kit from dhb and find the quality exceptional for the price! This year, they seemed to have invested a lot of time into making the kit colourful, visible and fun! What more could a girl dream of? Oh, and they have also designed some pretty cool stuff for the men's range too. 

I wore the black and pink one with arm warmers and a gilet and found it was very comfy and lightweight. I'm suuuper excited to wear both the jerseys with no arms on (not literally people) to really test the kit! So keep your eyes peeled for an up and coming post from me, where I will be reviewing both the jerseys :-) 

So for now, I will let you take a look at some snippets I took of them when they arrived!
Enjoy :-) (I also believe thee photo's do not do the jerseys justice!)









Feel free to comment if you have also tried the jerseys or want to suggest others! Thanks for reading :-) 

Sunday 12 April 2015

Cycling with back pain

I was so looking forward to getting a good block of training over the Easter holidays.. but this hasn't really happened. Although I have been on numerous rides, I had to cut several of the rides short due to agonising back pain! 
Last November, I was hit in a car crash from the rear on the way home after sitting my driving theory test (how ironic!) I went to hospital and the doctors for an examination and tablets, which they said should cover my pain until it stopped. How wrong was I to think that the pain would disappear after a few weeks!

I experienced awful pain and spasm in my lower/upper back and shoulders. I was forced to stop riding my bike for 3 months, along with my job until late January. During my time off, I just focused my energy on getting better and strengthening my back before I could even consider training again.
In February, I decided I had to start riding my bike again. I was having low moods and anxiety, I had to get back on my bike for my sanity and well-being. I began by doing a weekly core/strengthening class to work on strengthening my back and the muscles which support my back and core. When I was happy with my progress, I began by cycling an hour at a time when I felt good and my back wasn't too painful. 
I've had this back pain for 6 months, in which some days are worse than others. 

So, for those of you who also may suffer from neck or back pain on the bike, the following are the things that I do to help the pain. 


  • Take anti-inflammatory tablets prior to a ride
  • Take painkillers after a ride if you feel pain and soreness
  • Have a warm bath.. I love coming home from a ride and running a nice bubbling bath to ease my back! (Radox muscle soak is especially good for sore muscles)
  • Stretch-  Not only does this help the recovery and secretion of waste products, it also eases the stiffness in the muscles that can tighten during a ride
  • Ibuprofen gel-  This gel can be bought in most stores and really helps to warm up the muscles and ease the soreness!
My advice would be to avoid staying off the bike too long, keep moving & listen to your body. Sounds cliche, but, when your back is feeling especially painful, it can be a sign to stop and rest. I always feel angry at myself for having to cut the ride short due to my back but I know it is the best thing for it. 
I'm also thinking about joining a yoga class to help my flexibility and tightness of my back. If you know of any classes around Swansea then please comment below :-) 



Monday 6 April 2015

Crystal Pink Lazer Magneto M1 glasses - REVIEW

So with summer approaching fast, it dawned upon me that I was still using my £10 glasses I bought on ebay a few years ago. Those glasses have served me well throughout the Welsh weather, however, there is only so many times you can take having to stop after every descent to search for the lenses that have fallen out! After searching for a few weeks, I was feeling a bit apprehensive about spending money on glasses that I didn't truly love.
Luckily, my boyfriend knows me pretty well and found that Lazer do crystal pink glasses.. I think it's fair to say I fell in love with them instantly! Here is an image I found on Google to show you: 


The Magneto glasses have been designed to combine comfort and magnets in order to provide personal preferences for all riders. The glasses work well with Lazer helmets, as the magnets can fit onto the helmet straps, making it easier to wear on longer rides. The glasses also come with interchangeable lenses; clear, yellow and a blue/polarised tint. 

 I got these glasses because I loved the colour and design of them, so pretty! I think these glasses would be suitable for any level of rider, they are extremely light and comfortable, which I think is a good asset, as I struggle to wear glasses which feel heavy on my nose (I know I'm odd). The visibility is amazing, the lenses have a large surface area making it easier in traffic, as you cannot see below and above the glasses easily, which I find can distract my view on times with smaller lenses. 
I think the best benefit is how light and big they are! I went out on a 2.5 hour ride and forgot I had them on! The glasses come with magnets and smaller arms to the glasses, possibly for people who do not like the feel of the arms of the glasses resting on their ears. I personally prefer the longer arms, as this is what I've always ridden with and I feel most comfortable with. 

So I bet by now you're thinking "So what's the catch?", I can honestly not think of any major reason why anyone wouldn't love to own these glasses! Some may argue that it is unpractical having to change the lenses to suit the weather, but I don't think it's too time consuming? You could do that whilst munching on your pre-ride banana!  As for the interchangeable lenses, Lazer also do the same model with photocromic lenses which will mean no more changing lenses..happy days! I personally have quite a narrow face, which worried me when I saw the large surface area of the lenses. If you also have smaller features, Lazer also provide a smaller frame for the glasses. However, on riding, I found they were completely fitted to my face and did not slip down or cause discomfort on my face. I wore them on top of my head when I went for a walk and found they did not fall off the top of my head, despite me having to rescue a dog and a child from a river.. I'm pleased to say they passed the test of not falling off! 

So let's discuss where you can get your hands on a pair of these gems. My boyfriend bought me these glasses off a local bike shop called Urban Cyclery/Unity Cycle Works. They sell a range of the Lazer glasses, in a variety of styles and colours if you fancy a browse, along with loads of kit. Urban Cyclery currently sell the Lazer Magneto's for £89.99 which is an excellent price! A few other cycling shops sell the Magneto's, but Urban will be happy to order in any product you may fancy that they source online or have access to :-) 

I thought I'd show you some snaps we took on our ride down Mumbles if I haven't yet convinced you how nice they are. I have my pink Lazers on & Charlie is wearing the Lazer M1s Photocromic glasses which he also finds amazing to wear! (These may be preferred by those of you who don't like changing lenses.)
 I hope you like the review and find it beneficial, best purchase of the year so far for me! I can't wait to put them to the test in the French Alps this summer :-)

I've linked in Urban Cyclery to save you guys some time! They also do a lovely range of women's kit, go check them out!  X 




http://www.urbancyclery.co.uk/
http://www.unitycycleworks.co.uk/



Saturday 4 April 2015

Friday Flan day!

So Good Friday marks a special day.. I made my first dessert! No, it didn't involve any cooking or baking.. but it was rather yummy :-)
After pondering around Pinterest for hours the night before, I stumbled across several photos of Fruit Flan.. and it's pretty fair to say I fell in love with the exotic colours and intricate designs! I found this photo below on Pinterest, which gave me mahoosive food envy. 


Below are my attempts:






I thought I'd run through how I made the dessert and how long it took me, as it tasted so delicious! To save a little time on Good Friday, I decided to buy the Flan bases from a local shop and instead spent more than I should have on fruit! (You can never have enough fruit, right?) So if you want to do the same and skip the Flan making bit, then follow my instructions below :-)

Ingredients 
  • 1 medium egg, plus 1 extra egg yolk
  • 50 g/2 oz caster sugar
  • 25 g/1 oz plain flour
  • 300 ml/1/2 pint milk 
  • Few drops of vanilla essence
  • 450 g/1lb of strawberries ( I also used blueberries and raspberries) 
  • Mint leaves for decoration

So after buying the Flan and groping all the fruit in the shop, you'll want to start by making the filling for the Flan.
  1. Whisk the eggs and sugar together until thick and pale. Gradually stir in the flour and then the milk. Then pour into a little saucepan and simmer for 3-4 minutes. I then added a few drops of the vanilla essence, this made the consistency much thicker.
  2. Pour into a bowl, cover with grease proof paper and let it cool (I found outside to be the fastest option).
  3. When the filling is cold, whisk it's little socks off until smooth and then poor evenly onto the flan base. I then added my finely chopped strawbs all over the flan, before adding the blueberries and raspberries around the middle :-) 
Optional, but I found adding a few mint leaves & ice cream on the side made it that extra special.. definitely a keeper! By the way, this recipe makes for 6 people, so I had to double it up.

Happy Easter to you all :-) X