The Reality of ULTRA DISTANCE RACING / RIDING!

My first and last (?) Ultra event... • My BIGGEST Challenge!!...
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[@andymarsh3655]

Someone should organise a "Slow Points North". Same idea but not a race, only ride during daylight, sensible meal and tourism breaks enforced.

[@AA-ht8pn]

The Pennine rally has this ethos 😊

[@pl4free]

that's just called bike-packing and there's no point to organise it, people do it all the time 😉

[@davidalderson7761]

It’s not a race the problem is it attracts people who want to race. There is a issue with all these races ( there is a winner ) and because there is a winner iwirh a prize and accolades t’s a race and not much the organisers can do about it. They are responsible/liable for this too if there is a major incident. If the race wasn’t organised the race would not happen. I suspect mental health is an issue for all race “mentality”. Riding for 50/60 hours non stop on the NC4K or other high profile events. ….. APN has instigated a 3 hour rest rule I suspect it should be 6 hours per 24 hours clock starts when you leave the start line. 18 hours is your max movement time. and no one should be allowed to finish and then accumulate the rest time. They should be failed. The APN folks have instigated a great thing here and should be commended completely. A leveller should be the hotel stops should be banned and the rest breaks should be longer. The reason is it’s more of a level playing field for all types of rider. If your sponsored for bike food hotels and all then it’s an unfair advantage. Racing on open roads across Europe will eventually be licences by governing bodies and governments when a accident happens that costs the lives of bystanders. It’s coming just when it comes. The case for tape, robbery, murder for staying in hotels is fake. It’s just fear. What chance a axe wielding murderer just happens to strike when you set up your bivi bag in the North Yorkshire moors. Ok let’s guess 0.0001%. The hotel stoppers make it harder for the rest and it’s an unfair advantage. Shower, clean sheets, food, bar facilities, concierge services.

[@hughspear6653]

Thanks for the vid Katie. I did APN this year and think your points are all fair. I wasn't fast but did make the finisher's party. This year, as well as requiring people stop for 3hrs minimum each 24hrs, they also had the 'rookie' category which allowed people to start up to two and a half days earlier, so as to aim to finish for the party. Because of that I got 7 hrs sleep on the first night and 6 on the second night. I even had a nice 4 hours of sleep in my bivy bag on the third night. I think that two interesting things that came across to me after doing the event were; firstly that the route planning was a significant part of the event. Experienced people knew how to approach the challenge to reduce their hill climbing. I had just concentrated on finding the shortest distance between checkpoints on quiet roads, but the smarter riders used 'A' roads in the middle of the night and took better, if longer, routes up to some of the checkpoints (which were mostly not far from a steep climb). Secondly, the happiness and enthusiasm of the finishers, especially first time finishers, was infectious. The sense of achievement was evident, and most people were talking of their next 'trip'. For many, the next trip won't be another Ultra, but some other sort of challenge and if nothing else, a ride such as APN gives people the confidence to try other challenges with less trepidation. A large part of successful finishing, is overcoming the mental challenge, and once you know you've got it in you to 'finish', you are just a little less fearful of the next adventure. I think that confidence would transfer to life outside of cycling too. Anyway, thats my 2 cents worth.

[@haksaw123]

Pushing limits is addictive as it feeds your self esteem. Doing it for the sake of doing it over and over is really self defeating because it stops being fun and more importantly it stops being healthy. I was a triathlete amongst other thing's one (or three) of which was completing the Ironman. It definitely wasn't about fun, as was my military training. One was about pride the other survival (actually now that I think about it, both were about survival). Both really weren't any fun at all. Now days I mostly race my mountain bike mostly selectively with friends and do the odd road grand fondo's that take around 3 hours simply because of ulnar nerve pressure damage and nothing more. I cycle for my health because I enjoy it more than anything else. You really don't need to prove anything. You just got to be happy ❤

[@jamesrosar3823]

Katie, I’ve been a ‘recovering’ ultra-distance rider for twenty years now, after my RAAM attempt fizzled in Oklahoma. I am still riding a great deal, and looking to do some quick bike camping in the years to come, but your insights into finding your limits ring true! After the physical challenges of ultra-distance events come the mental challenges that wrack your soul. I eventually realized how grateful I was not to be tortured by the degrees of self-doubt, bitterness and outright trauma that other competitors drew upon to propel themselves through their toughest episodes! I found out how far I could push myself, well beyond what I had ever imagined before, and I glimpsed where I could go, were I willing to pay the price. But it gets dark over there; and I respect you for not being willing to do harm to your future self. Ride hard, and ride well! But get to know your limits by testing them. Respect what you discover, and continue to explore with that respect.

[@cpollock]

As someone who also suffered through ulnar nerve compression for a few months after a 1200 last year, aero bars have been a life saver this season for me. Even on hilly courses, there are enough opportunities to give your hands a break, if only for a few minutes at a time.

[@MrLuigi-oi7gm]

Hi Katie, I think this was one of your best videos ever. 👏❤️👏❤️👏❤️👏❤️ I think cycling KZbinrs need to share more of these cautionary tales about the ever increasing bar height of cycling challenge events. We are entering uncharted territory will very little data to know what the long term effects of this "cycling lifestyle" is on the average human body. And by long term, I mean when folks are in their 60's, 70's, and 80's. I know I want to be able to cycle at that age and I wouldn't want to do things to my body when younger that "wears it out," no matter how thrilling it can be to push your body to its extremes in order to enjoy that rush of achievement and success. I hope I am not being misunderstand here. I have run wilderness challenge trips for high school seniors for over 40 years. I understand the enormous value to your sense of self worth and self confidence that comes from daring to push yourself to do things that you are afraid to do and don't think you can overcome. But I do think there are lines that shouldn't be crossed so that life is as joy filled and beautiful for as long as possible. ❤️❤️❤️

[@sheepledog4470]

No pleasure without pain. Its usually a balance set by personal preference. oldmrmegadrive2. blogspot. com

[@alienaudaxer9827]

It's an interesting subject. One of my mates is a much stronger rider than me and is also 20 years older than me. He just rode from Oslo to Munich in about 7 days and will ride Paris-Brest-Paris in August. But sure, he's very much in the minority. I guess it would be sensible not to only grind yourself into dust by only cycling but also making sure that your core and flexibility is maintained to help lighten the load.

[@Timonius93]

I have had a very similar experience. After having done several solo bikepacking trips and longer distance rides I did a 2000km brevet two years ago. I went to my limit and beyond and rode through the night on the last day. But riding through the night, sleepy felt dangerous then and still feels dangerous in my memory. Going further than what I went in that event would require to fuel on coffein just to push the body for even more hours. Can't be sustainable... I had numb big toes and really bad HR and HRV for several weeks after the event. Still I am very grateful to have experienced it once and I am definitely not done with bikepacking or ultra distance. But I think I prefer to do it at my own terms in a sustainable way. It's just as much fun :)

[@Eowyn77]

being sleep deprived is as incapacitating as being drunk, Matthew Walker explains that in his book "Why We Sleep", there are also quite a lot of interviews with him here on youtube

[@markreams3192]

One of the major benefits of cycling is maintaining good health. Ultra marathon events are not healthy. The sleep deprivation is part of it. Prolonged sleep deprivation depresses your immune system. Ultramarathon events and training cause in increase in your bodies cortisol levels. Cortisol depresses your immune system, interferes with testosterone (women do make testosterone) which is necessary to recovery and building of muscle tissue. Cortisol increases your blood sugar and is instrumental in causing your body to store fat. Your ulnar nerve problem is just one of the overuse injuries your body can have by overdoing it. Knee and hip issues can pop up. As you pointed out, extreme fatigue causes severe impairment of judgement, which is dangerous while operating any type of vehicle. The only real benefit I see is bragging rights. This is fine but don’t be misinformed that this is a healthy activity! Just my humble opinion 😂. Ride hard, be safe and have a great day Katie!😊

[@hamba1998]

As an ultra runner, a lot of what you've said resonates! I have my 2nd attempt at a 100 mile race next weekend. I DNF'd my first go in 2021, having probably underestimated things - fingers crossed that next weekend goes much better! Also, I don't know whether it's just because you're indoors, but the audio quality in this video is fantastic.

[@lizzypicardi]

Crazy good luck with that! I singed up 4 my 1st 50k and hoping to do 100 miles in a year or two!

[@NinaAndGalj]

Excellent video. Thank you! I agree with all of your thoughts Katie. For me, riding my bike is for enjoyment. For instance, where i live in Birmingham, there are so many canals and ive stopped pretending to not mind them. I dont enjoy being on canals. I wont go on canal rides any more. I dont mind a short stretch but certainly no more than 10 minutes. Its ok to be you. Its ok to say... when you dont like a particular type of ride. My hands are numb during and after any canal ride. This is due to gripping on for dear life!! Thank you for your amazing videos. Im currently going through all your past videos as i only found you last month. You are the most inspirational cyclist on KZbin.😊❤ ❤❤❤❤❤

[@glennoc8585]

I like the idea of doing canal rides but the need to be so vigilant of the risk of losing you bike in the canal could take the fun out of it. Canals in Europe tend to have wider paths.

[@NinaAndGalj]

@@glennoc8585 we have a problem here with bike robbers together with thugs who find it hilarious to push cyclists into the water. Then there are the humps. You almost always get stuck behind someone who has to get off and walk... therefore.. you're forced to stop as well. Then there are the wet conditions. Also... its anxiety inducing to worry how you are going to get back up from the canal. I have mobility issues and find stairs incredibly difficult. All in all.. they are my worst nightmare lol

[@falklevien]

Crackin video as always. I've done the VWTTC this January. 24h on an indoor trainer. I love indoor riding, and that one was always on my bucket list, but it also took me a good few days to really get back on the bike again at all, and a good few weeks to overcome the physical and mental long term effects and return to proper training. Tbh I'm really on the fence about whether I'd do it again. On the one hand, I've learned a lot and would love to see what I can do with that experience, how much further I can go. But on the other hand, as you said, it's just so much time you're sacrificing for an event like that. It's a tough call.

[@SeanKeesler]

I like the expression "fizzy hands." Nails it. I'm going to do PBP this year at 54...bucket list stuff...but I think I'll be thinking the same in a few months.

[@danwhittaker4592]

Really insightful and honest video. I did APN for the second time this year. I love the event and the people involved. Compared to the first time, I slept minimally in an attempt to race it. I had to scratch two thirds in due to injuring my right knee by aggressively riding up a heck of a lot of steep hills on a loaded bike (whereas last time I would have walked up more). I think more sleep may have led me to not making those poor judgments on steeper hills and thereby not injuring my knee. As I say, I love APN and the community around it, but as I sit here right now, I really need to think about whether I can justify the impact of another ultra on my body (not to mention on my family and finances). I’d never say never though

[@Markhypnosis1]

You're absolutely right The human body is capable of so much, but it's not supposed to be put through that much stress. It's not healthy at all and very bad for the heart. I keep watching you and others do all these ultra distance rides and I'm in awe, but knowing the damage it does stops me from attempting it. The longest I've done is 204 miles, after only cycling for 18 months and building my FTP up to 300 watts. Even those are very stressful for the body, but not to the extreme. As for comfort, I do use TT bars and they are great. I did a 120 mile ride two weeks ago and was on the TT bars the whole time. Not only is it comfortable, but soo much faster.....I averaged 19 mph over the whole ride. I have the Specialized Roubaix Elite which has the Future Shock stem suspension. It Smooths out most of the handle bar vibration.

[@davidalderson7761]

Completely agree with the time and effort to do an ultra. My journey took 2 years from 32km to 4000km and Alba Ultra and APN in the schedule. Doing hundreds of KM’s and then over 500 makes you realise “YES WE CAN”….. the negative seems to be when you stop you get a form of PTSD….. so very much a way to conquer this is to have something up ahead to sim for in the future. APN now has 3 hours rest compulsory each day. So I completely agree with this as the risk of a crash or a member of the public being injured on public roads must be considered and mitigated. APN is not a race but here is a winner so people can put win ahead of just finishing. I am not a winner but always hope to finish. Hotel hopping is an option Camping out in a bivi too. It’s easier to hotel hop but it’s a risk you can’t find a lodging especially on APN weekend as it’s bank holiday in the north Pennines. Give it a go the journey to it is worth as much as the event itself.

[@bobdiluted6243]

My wife just completed APN in 82 hours, and was 48th woman to complete the Mallorca 312 last month. She's badass, only started cycling 3 years ago. Turns out shes not bad at it.

[@deblordoutdoors5783]

I completely relate to everything you said, but mine was from the perspective of doing the London Marathon. It’s the only marathon I’ve ever done, and I have never been a runner of that distance. I did Parkruns, ran some 5-10ks regularly each week for fitness, and did some 10k events throughout the year to stay motivated, then I entered the LM ballot on a whim and fuck me, I got in! It took 6 months of training through the week and long runs at weekends. It wasn’t just my commitment, it was my family being onboard with me not being available a lot, and having to eat and sleep and train strictly. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and though I vowed never to do it again, there’s that nostalgia each year when I watch it, and I have a crack at the ballot. But I have to remind myself of everything it took to get to the end, and I don’t think I’d want to do all of that again. Great bragging rights with these things though😉

[@sheepledog4470]

Ahh, the forgetting... Romantic backward glances. Then will I, won't I? oldmrmegadrive2. blogspot. com

[@robp3431]

Unbound gravel race is Saturday.....if you leave today, you can still make it if you want an easy 200 miler 🙂

[@malcontent_1]

🤔😉

[@kennetharmstrong6297]

Smiles not miles is the key my favourite video of yours is this one because of the honest presentation and belief you are helping people with the reality of these events a have came to a conclusion am concentrating on different routes not obsessed by targets and miles strava and will be more social too well done kate hugs

[@CycletheNation]

This feels personal! 😂😂😂 In all honesty though, you've answered a lot of questions I would have asked anyway. The social aspect of my life has most definitely been affected this year (more than previous years), something I won't say I regret as the reasons I do it are so important to me - others understand, but matched with a full time job it's difficult to fit it all in.

[@geoffreyhoney122]

Couldn't agree more Katie. I LOVE long distances (touring/ Bikepacking) , BUT I won't do ultra events for all of the super valid reasons you have articulated. My max is 120km per day (often less) so my body can RECOVER, so I can ENJOY the beautiful nature (yes even rain/bad weather) that I am immersed within, so that I can SLEEP in my tent, SAVOUR my food, write my journal refections, take my photos as I go! If I ever enter a gravel event, because I really think that it could be fun, I will choose the moderate distance and I will ride to COMPLETE not compete! Phil Clavell's Midlife Cyclist warns of these dangers of over training/ Underrecovering. Yes, there are numerous studies that show that riding sleep deprived is equal or more impaired than alcohol intoxication! The hallucinations are evidence of this. This all saps the lifeblood out of why I ride. Thanks for the honesty and yes, you are not crazy to say no to doing this again. Do the long distances, sure, but space them out over numerous days. Great video! Authentic!

[@KatieKookaburra]

Absolutely Geoffrey!!! :) we have to do what’s right for OURSELVES. And great for people wanting to do those big ultras but it’s not for me x

[@Badger_66]

You mention drink driving and a emergency vehicle goes past with it's siren on 🤣 Cracking video and a great insight as to what's required to ride an ultra challenge.Keep the amazing videos coming x

[@melesshuffle]

Great video. Having thoroughly enjoyed watching your APN adventure it's good to see your thoughts on it given a year's distance. I'm honestly intrigued about this sort of distance (although that sort of climbing can Do One) and your honesty about the downsides is a breath of fresh air in all the vids about how wonderful these things are. Re your comments about sleep patterns - you were essentially jetlagged. I get it every year (to a lesser extent) after the Dun Run. I've missed a night of sleep because I chose to be a silly arse, and if I sleep in the afternoon on the Sunday as my body is screaming for then I'm buggered for a couple of days. For me I have to stay awake until a normal 'going to bed' time - although god knows how that would translate after sommat like APN. Still in awe.

[@emilylewis3147]

Thanks for sharing Katie - this is exactly how I feel about Ultras. I follow a lot of ultra riders on instagram and often feel the buzz to take on one of these challanges, but then I remind myself how stroppy I get when I'm underslept and try to remember that for me, riding my bike is about balancing fun and challenge, and if something tips it too far towards challenege and away from fun, its not for me. I like long distance an multi-day riding, but you can do that with a decent kip each night and a proper fry up each morning hahaha.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Exactly!!!! A nice bed each night is lovely and doesn’t mean you’re less of a long distance cyclist for doing that!! :)

[@Miekzz]

All of these reasons are exactly why I love long rides but will never do an actual ultra, good video pointing it all out :)

[@simon-morris]

Whilst nowhere in the same league, I feel a lot of your concerns. I only started cycling regularly about 3 years ago and have come a long way, the mental and physical health benefits have been amazing. I am type 1 diabetic and will be 49 this year and did the Ride100 last weekend, only 160k but the amount of time I had to put in to prepare was huge. I have done over 1700 miles so far this year!! After about 75 miles of the event my hands were numb, I had a sore backside and just out of energy. I asked myself why am i putting myself through this.... so I have decided to pull back a bit, taking a couple of weeks off the bike now and then only going to do 40-50 mile rides, that takes me about 3 hours and feels a good time, I can keep going, I enjoy it and still get the health benefits. I am in awe of what you, and other ultra cyclists can achieve but everyone needs to find their level where cycling is fun, social and non-detrimental to the body

[@nickmallett7391]

As an athlete progresses through their endurance sport life their "normal" changes. What was once a perceived, insurmountable hurdle, becomes just another ride/race or even a normal weekend ride. The personal goalposts move with experience. As for the mental side of constantly feeling the "need" to do these long events ( any long event be it Ultra-tri,Ultra Run,ultra Ride etc,etc) that can be an issue and sometimes a detrimental one. Some people end up have their entire life tied up in the need to these events. That can stem from other external factors with mental health issues a very.very common driving force or it can be as simple as someone attaching "who they are" to that lifestyle. It becomes their identity and that also can be both a positive and a negative. A healthy balance is the key.

[@glennoc8585]

I took a whole week off my bike recently and i hadn't done that for a very long time. When i jumped back on the trainer i only felt a bit slow for a short time and next day i did a group fast pace ride and felt great. We all need a physical and mental break from routines in life whether that be recreational pursuits or work. Lack of sleep is probably something we notice as we get older when doing intense work loads or endurance sports. Its hard to measure that unless you have reference data from your past. A friend that was a sleep specialist was researching sleep by age for his doctorate, he mentioned there was detriment to lack of sleep in all age groups but not as profound in adults depending on age as you might think. Altered sleep patterns were the most detrimental eg rotating shift work.

[@christianjohnhill]

Do it once and tick the box. Once you've climbed Everest you don't have to do it every year. 50 mile rides with friends are physically and mentally so much more fun. Keep turning KK great posts.

[@martinhaywood8040]

I did 4000 miles over 10 weeks for charity back in 2016 fitting around work and life. A friend said I must be mad. Only on reflecting a few weeks after I finished did I agree “he had a point”.

[@OldDavo1950]

I know a few people who do Audax here in Australia, they have few 1000klm notches on their frames. One fellow is like me in his 70s. Bridge too far for me. Anyhow my challenge this year was the Peaks Challenge 235klm and over 4000m of elevation. Was aiming for a 12 hour time. Was well into a 16 week training program and was getting results from it. Then 4 weeks out the event was cancelled when half a mountain fell on the road giving us no access. After a couple of weeks of deflation, I thought bugger it, looks like its on for sure next year. We will give it another go. I know the training regime now and what to expect. So March next year its on again. I will be 74 and maybe the last real chance to prove to myself I can do it. 12/13hour target still going for. Lets see what happens.

[@enigma1000]

That summed up my experience of long events. I enjoy the adventure and the scenery (on a good route) but after a day riding I get very uncomfortable and not in a good way. It’s the reason I stopped doing audaxes longer than about 200k. I enjoy a good bike ride but I felt there were no or minimal fitness benefits beyond a full day and the damage to nerves and general (bad) wear and tear was counterproductive. I did the same with PBP. Great to do it once but no strong desire to repeat it (although many do keep going back for multiple editions). To answer another comment, if you did a 600 with reasonable time to spare and not being wrecked at the end you should be fine on PBP if you stay healthy, stay upright and soak up the famous ambiance. Comfort on long distances is the most important thing, so have plenty of padding in the right places and the best position on the bike that you can. PS riding while sleep deprived is dangerous. You can easily fall asleep on a bike and what you hit is a matter of chance. It’s also irresponsible to other roads users, even if there few in the mountains of Wales at 4am. Be sensible and stay safe.

[@chrisstrider]

For me impairment due to sleep deprivation and road cycling don’t mix

[@bensharpe2013]

Great video and Fizzy hands is a great description of road buzz 🙂 I've done a few multi day rides and thoroughly enjoyed them (Lejog in 13 days and CTC in 3 days) so I cannot imagine doing that sort of distances without sleep and some time to recover, sounds like torture! I agree that once is enough for ultra riding, take your time and enjoy it!

[@andrewcalladine2507]

It takes a lot to permanently damage your nerves, a good sports physio or yoga instructor can help with nerve issues, as most are down to positional issues. Cycling can cause those issues, but if you do core exercises and back and shoulder and neck issues they can help to mitigate those issues.

[@parkysouthlondon]

This was my first APN, And I really enjoyed it. The checkpoints were so much more interesting and challenging to reach that the CP during an audax. How many audax controls are at a hangman’s Gibbet 😅 We rode as fast as we could and gave ourselves enough sleep to keep ourselves health and awake. We finished in 75hrs so missed the party but we had a great weekend seeing a part of the country we don’t really know well. (We’re from London).

[@zzhughesd]

I can ride 9 hours Mcr to Birmingham and back and feel dead as a dodo. I liiterally cannot comprehend Ultra or race across Australia. LEJOG

[@ianlloyd1182]

Goodonya Katie for having a go and completing something epic but also having to commonsense to know realistic limits. Damaging your body is never worth it in the long run. You inspire with your enjoyment of cycling and your realistic comments about the ups and downs. Keep them coming and stay safe on them narrow Pommy roads. 👍

[@lizzypicardi]

Exciting! There are some aspects o ultra training that I really enjoy.

[@Z-u-m-a]

Nothing wrong with having the 'goal' of a healthy balanced lfe with fun along the way. Quite an achievement to do that each year.

[@DC-lu5qs]

Brilliant video. I think that some of us just like to challenge ourselves as part of our riding, and we take on bigger and bigger challenges, and can get to a point of doing it just for the challenge but not enjoying the experience of accomplishing it. The feeling of accomplishment can be there, but without enjoying the journey we can be harming ourselves more than helping, maybe. It's interesting that you're sufficiently self aware to notice it in real time, and I feel like it's a good self-reminder to smell the roses while I'm smashing along.

[@jamesmckenzie3532]

I had friends who trained for PBP. It was a year-long process, and it took them places I wouldn't ride.

[@andyblades8946]

Just rewatching all the APN stuff I can find, now I’ve finally got an entry 😁 Praying for good weather already, but still eyeing up some marigolds 😂

[@johnmcnulty1129]

Great vid Katie, l remember that All Points North film you made last year. Brutal ! At one point concerned for your safety. When you exhaust the body that much in one Mega, constantly raining event. You're the shiniest star in the KZbin cycling constellation, you also know when to set a limit. Enjoy any rides you do, brilliant times to be had on any size ride. Keep being amazing Katie Enjoy the sun, while it lasts ! ☀️ 🦙

[@raymondelliot4605]

As you said it takes a lot of physical preparations but it must take a lot of mental preparation to do what you did and for other people who do It. Kudos to all who have done this and to those who are thinking about giving it a go. Maybe if I was 30 years younger I would like to try it but not now. Take care and thanks again for your videos.👍🏻🚴🏻‍♀️

[@TheLelol]

"Maybe give myself a little bit more time to sleep and enjoy my surroundings!" @10:24 This is sooooo true! Basically this is the reason why i don't like to ride ultra distances!

[@DavidMcNamaraLegend]

Thanks for the insight. I did All Points North last weekend and my fingers are still “fizzy”. I loved it though. I need to work on the hands though as I’m doing TCR later this year.

[@hannahgill4311]

Thanks Katie for being so honest, I've really enjoyed following some of the riders at APN this year but I completely understand your reservations re. sleep deprivation and not really getting to see places properly. I've also had mild numbness in hands after 100km+ and as a professional pianist I dread the thought of having problems for weeks afterwards! As you say, there comes a point when it probably does your body more harm than good.

[@TheBigfoot88]

I feel your point on not seeing something of the environment we're rushing through. On Audaxes I changed to only do 'wheel sucking' groups rides in the night - as soon as the sun rises, I prefer riding alone or next to other people and enjoy the time around.

[@malcontent_1]

I think "setbacks" is the word you were looking for. And you've overcome them. We're proud of you for your spirit and perseverance.

microsleeping (?) on yr bike is dangerous - was in the night-shift 22-06 hrs for 25 yrs, never used a car to commute and waking up to see you're veering off the lane is something i don't want to experience again & sleep deprived means you're as if tipsy

[@bee_whisper]

I'd heard something similar where it was 24 hrs without sleep is like 4 pints of beer I think.

[@Steven-gf1ns]

Your best video yet, thank you for being so candid

[@smellyelle8422]

I have to say, I'm absolutely fascinated with Ultra Cycling events. I watch with utmost respect and admiration, racers and rookies alike, documenting their experiences here on You Tube. I do often wonder if there are any long term health effects from sleep deprivation whilst pushing the body, event after event. I also wonder what all of that consistent fuelling does to the toothie pegs 🤔😅

[@richardgate1571]

I had 4 fillings after my first ultra, TCR. Luckily my son is now a qualified dentist 😂

[@cyclops60]

Really good take on the reality and potential pitfalls of ultras. I think everyone has a different natural capacity and you can easily stray in the territory of doing more harm than good. For me, a single day event is enough if I want to push myself. Multi-day rides are now chilled out 'take it all in' affairs!

[@helendale7668]

After doing my first 400km a month ago I've been persuaded to try a 600km this weekend.. not sure if it's a good idea ! The 400 was ok but I saw the effects of sleep deprivation on me (I had to stop and sit down half way up a hill) and on others (a guy doing impressive zigzags and falling off - luckily at very low speed with no traffic about ). I'm planning to sleep at least 5 or 6 hours. I think my body has already forgotten the last 20km during which every small bump on the road hurt, but my mind hasn't ! At least the weather forecast is dry ! Thanks for all the usefull advice ... although this is a qualifier for Paris-Brest-Paris no way will I do it (at least not this year) just too much time involved.. I can't spare a week's holiday for a race !

[@333wheeler]

After a point in the ride when you are just doing it for the sake of recording a long mileage the fun go's out of it for me. Its nice to have the certificate or whatever but personally rather have shorter challenging rides that are less time consuming .

[@MattScottMusic]

I’m knackered after cycling much much les than that. The sleep thing is weird. They should make sure riders get enough sleep in these races. I am not familiar with how it all works, but the brevet system needs a provision for this for safety reasons.

[@alanbenham4139]

Chapeau. Very sensible advice.

[@pbella29]

Such an inspirational woman, so glad I've found your channel.

[@newsnowyukon3435]

I rode 40 miles recently in one day. Awesome videos Katie

[@mrichards55]

Audaxing is a poor man’s pursuit with the bus stop hotels and petrol station restaurants.

[@martinschwartz7342]

Thank you for this brilliant an incitefull perspective. I think Ultra events should be done in stages with a mandatory sleep period between. For example, 15 hours of riding followed by mandatory 6 hour sleep.

[@denlsgoulden2307]

Like anything else in life, look at the big picture and strike a balance, no need to become a fanatic to detriment of everything else on life. I really enjoy cycling and have done since childhood, but I have other interests too and it's nice to make time for all of them 🤔🙄🙂

[@rabh6746]

I cycle for fun, I wouldn't want to do these crazy distances as they take such a toll on your body! My longest one day ride has been 162 miles on my e bike (aged 64) and 154 miles on my standard road bike (aged 54)! I get why people do it but its not for me, I cycled round Arran (62.2 miles) yesterday (it was pure heaven) and I will cycle another 78 miles on Sunday and rest for another couple of days before going out again! I never ride less than 50 miles these days, I like to have a few hours on the bike even at 65 years old!

[@ianbarbar3869]

Refreshing honesty. Chapeau!

[@ianmacdonald487]

Hi, Katie! Very informative, as always. I can't imagine dealing with the sleep deprivation at my age. I won't be doing too many long rides, but I ride some almost every day. I think I mentioned before that most of my riding is of a utilitarian nature now. My friend Kate ( yes, really) has been after me for several years to create a KZbin channel for riding videos, repair videos, and weight training, but hosting a KZbin channel is not something I feel capable of. There must be people in your area who cycle for practical purposes. How about some videos with people in your part of the world who do their shopping and commuting by bicycle?

[@sheepledog4470]

E-bikes too? oldmrmegadrive2. blogspot. com

[@dawn-mariewillmer3690]

I’m nervous now 🤣. I decided to try Paris-Brest-Paris this year. The most is ridden previous was one 300km ride. I’ve completed all the qualifiers (200/300/400/600km) in the last two months. Wondering if I’ll actually be capable of doing the 1200km for PBP though 😳.

[@parkysouthlondon]

Everyone should try PBP at least once in their life. It’s a great cycling festival with cyclists from all over the world. The UK has some hard audaxers as qualifiers and consequently has one of the highest finish rates of any large country taking part. If you’ve proven you can ride 600km in the UK than you can be pretty sure you’ve got what it takes to finish PBP.

[@andyblades8946]

Don’t fancy Everesting with us this Sunday in the Peak District then? 😜 Group world record attempt, rescheduled from last year. Need all the support we can get!!! 😳

[@malcontent_1]

Best of luck Andy & Crew!

[@andyblades8946]

@@malcontent_1 Thank you 😁

[@wolfade89]

I should think those marigolds in the pouring rain still haunt you Katie. Don’t know how you did it, but it was a challenge ticked off the list. Lack of sleep, does effect you. I know, working long shifts day & night. Feel jet lagged or drunk, as you say. So it’s a pleasure to get out on the bike and just ride for the enjoyment of it all.

[@1carusjohn32]

I think the sleep aspect is the major issue for me. Just don't fancy riding in a compromised state. Longest ride I have done is 180 miles. 12 hours elapsed and 10 hrs ride time. Two good grub stops as well as my own fuel plus many photo stops and chats with randoms --- grand day out. Could have probably strung a couple of them together but I would have needed a good 7 hrs straight sleep to do it. But like you I had to train specifically over 3 months or so to be able to do even that, but had no issues afterwards at all even the next day. Kudos to you for ticking it off, not sure I would want to do it again. You have nothing to prove and many other things that is clear you will enjoy way more on your bike.

[@richardgate1571]

I found that whilst pedalling, I never felt sleepy. I’ve been able to do very long days and ride through the first night on a long race no problem. But get off the bike and sit down, I’m out like a light! Several times I ordered food at a restaurant and the waiter/waitress has woken me up when they brought the food! But last year in high 30s, for the the first time I needed a short nap on the daytime. I think age is catching up on me!

[@tonystaples9136]

Katie, these Ultras are what they are,😆 I did 600 miles in a month, that was hard , fitting in 20 miles a day , and if you missed a few days you had to catch up . So doing the distances you did in such a short time is a real trip into the hurt locker, and your bodies not really so keen .... Being so tired is a massive experience..I have been there as well, sit down and you know you will be asleep so you have to not sit down, or hold something heavy in your hand so it drops as you nod off and wakes you up you do sort of go into a zombie/ drunk state and come up with bonkers answers to normal daily problems 😆😆 ..You did really well and its a massive life experience. It means that the next time someone tells you that there tired after a 9 hour shift etc you have to just smile ... There is a safety side to this event and maybe it should be the last 200 miles on zwift

[@haveblue117]

Very good arguments! Makes me wonder if I really want to go that route.... 👍

[@bettyourcampervan]

Another fab video Katie ❤

[@sillypuddystl2907]

The distances are impressive but true bike racing is settled at the anaerobic level. So it’s really not racing to me.

[@AA-ht8pn]

Couldn’t agree more

[@oddknack]

thanks

[@gabrielclimb]

Katie, do you have a coach?

[@nodbag6301]

Well done for achieving your goal - but not for me. also no time to see sheep

[@treguard1982]

i can't do long distance same day anymore sadly as they interfere with my sex life, so I have to split the days up. If you're a bloke and spending many many hours, then there's no saddle that is going to be good for the willy

[@mopedtobias9049]

When getting into HCLF did you follow durianrider's protocol to the point? Did you get into bed 9pm everyday?

[@veriest1]

What did Phil say about the hand thing? You're definitely not the first person I've heard talk about this issue.

[@ricardosemino8133]

Saludos desde Perú un abrazo.

[@user-jh8no1zb9e]

Why in kilometers ?? - this is England , we dont use kilometers here or in the US

[@rodmilankov8966]

Because it is the international standard.

[@NexusDL12]

Sounds pretty insane!

[@user-jh8no1zb9e]

Road racing style bike are just uncomfortable full stop

[@Tarmaccyclocross]

I find endurance sit up and beg bikes uncomfortable I raced for years and that’s the position I find comfortable

[@GrenvilleMelonseedSkiff496]

Great insight into an amazing challenge and glad you finally cracked it. I'm with you though on why I ride ... nature, views and fun with mates. Defo agree that goals are super important .... for me right now that's total km's for the year. That helps loads with the motivation although riding my bike is so much fun, it doesn't take much to get me out the door! 🚴‍♀🐑⛰📷🙂