You're Never Too Old For Endurance Cycling - The Proof

[@ronaldallen8604]

Don't worry Andy, you won't fall to pieces overnight. At 73 I find that i am slower, have to adjust my ETA accordingly and look more carefully at my recovery from strenuous rides. A little resistance training, perhaps, lower gearing, and ditching the "junk" carbohydrates will keep you OK and as physical ability inevitably declines it is partly compensated by an increase in mental strength; AKA sheer bloody mindedness. Better summers where I live help too.

[@theroadprovides]

A few people have said similar about mental strength improving actually

[@br5380]

I’m 60, did a 300k Audax last month, over 3,000m of climbing too. I wasn’t the oldest by a country mile. One thing to note, my strength has disappeared but my mental capacity is far, far greater than it ever was. Only recommendation is to ride a variety of rides - MTB, gravel & road. I find it helps my overall fitness and certainly strengthens bike handling. Oh, and you think you’ve had a crap summer, try living in Scotland!

[@theroadprovides]

Yeah I bet, I was considering coming to Scotland soon, maybe I won’t 🤣

[@MoBettahar]

J'ai 61 ans et j'ai découvert le cyclisme (cyclotourisme) il y a 2 ans, ç'a été un coup de foudre..quand je vois les performances des jeunes cyclistes je pleure...j'en suis très loin mais je prends un plaisir fou quand je suis sur mon vélo. C'est ça qui compte et je trouve que je progresse beaucoup, il y a un travail musculaire à faire et le mental joue un rôle redoutable, merci Andy pour tes vidéos, tes conseils tu es une bonne personne 👍

[@theroadprovides]

Hé ! Merci pour le commentaire, j'apprécie et je suis content que vous appréciez les vidéos :)

[@petebw]

I'm 55 and ultra distance is not the issue for me, I just get there more slowly (and also very much enjoy the journey a great deal more too!).

[@Enigmavelo]

I’m nearly 58 and enjoying the best health of my life, with good diet and the right mindset coupled with good sleep there are very few barriers, agree about never too late. In addition to cycling I do yoga and planks which keeps me bendy and able to tuck down low.

Up here in Finland my uncle did cross country skiing, 3000-4000 km every winter, up until the age of 98. On my recent bike ride chatted with an older cyclist, age 87, started cycling ten years ago, does 300-400 kms every week. Im 65 now and plan to follow my elders' example if physically possible. Keep on riding:)

[@theroadprovides]

Sounds like a good plan mate 😁

[@lwiful]

At 63, I find that I have a much more healthy relationship with cycling and training in general than before. When I was younger, I always competed, with myself and with others. Looking back, it was actually quite stressful. After a cancer diagnosis and treatment my perspectives changed. Nowadays, I train and I ride my bike because I love being outdoors and enjoy that my body and mind works. I enjoy having the energy for bike rides (not doing ultra) as well as other sports activities with friends and doing all sorts of other activities such as long dog walks together with my wife or playing with grand kids. I can't push the power like Pogacar (of course I never could), but I'm happy. Later today, I have a planned ride with an old friend, of the same age as me, who discovered cycling about a year ago after a heart disease that could have been fatal. Seeing his progress this year, going from riding a couple of kilometers max to now enjoying a 100 km ride is great. It's never too late to start caring for yourself.

[@theroadprovides]

Definitely not mate, glad you’re both all good too 😁

[@Oxibase]

I started cycling this year at 41 years of age. It's been the only aerobic activity that I actually enjoy and I would like to eventually be able to ride 100 miles. You certainly inspire me to keep at it. Thanks Andy!

[@theroadprovides]

That’s great hear, you can do it just build up gradually and have fun :)

[@RachelPash]

I am 41 and only JUST getting into the idea of long-distance bikepacking/cycling (I literally don't even have my bike yet, I am saving for it) and I got REALLY into endurance cycling and kept seeing wonderful humans like Lael Wilcox (who is around 38 years old and currently breaking world records) and I thought okay so I don't have that history, but I do have the chance to try and get there, to do it even if I am not breaking records. Great video!

[@theroadprovides]

You 100% absolutely can, that’s the best thing about endurance 😁

[@MarkNeal75]

Ah Andy! The age old question, when are you too old? Well I think there are so many determining factors but certainly watching your health now and developing a strong body earlier than later is a good shout. I am 49 this month and just finished 2 weeks riding through Brittany. A few days off in there and very low mileage but it was a holiday. I suffer from bad knees due to injury during rugby at schoolboy and pro academy level and then a stint in the military. I also work full time as a pub manager so on my feet 40-50 hours a week! I am certainly feeling it but hopefully a bike fit and custom bike over the winter will set me up well to continue riding! Stay with it, develop your body and mind and just keep going. Manage expectations and don’t go too hard and far too soon. We all want to keep cycling so i think it’s important to maintain self discipline and expectation ❤

[@theroadprovides]

Man I’d struggle with a physical job and doing this hobby

[@edzeppelin933]

Good stuff Andy. I'm slightly younger than you and just getting into trying to ride longer distances than I ever have before. Sometimes I think I've left it too late to really have a crack at getting good at this. This video and the comments here have inspired me to give it a good try! Thanks mate

[@theroadprovides]

No you’ve got loads of time mate 😁

[@GodfreyGuitar]

I'm never going to be fast, but I'm 58, stubborn, and can sit in the saddle and pedal for a long time!

[@WPKSC]

Age is just a number Andy 😉. I’m 56 next week, and when I was still kitesurfing until 3 years ago I had people kiting that were in the late 70’s with me. Started cycling to help with stamina for kiting back in 2016, was originally about banging out fast rides, now I’m older it’s more about enjoyment, endurance, keeping fit and staying healthy. It’s a balancing act and realising that it’s a fight against age creeping up on you, but knowing people 20 yrs older than me that still put me to shame on a bike and on a kite reminds me that it’s possible, just need to keep at it and don’t let old age win ( or the monkey in the brain who thinks cake and TV on wet or windy days is far better than being out on the bike 😀). Nice to see you on the bike Andy, relaxed and enjoying the ride 👍👍

[@theroadprovides]

Yeah all good here mate, I tried kiting years ago, too scary for me 🤣

[@arturduarte113]

I'm over 50 years old, and very very new into cycling - only began cycling, proper riding, in June last year, 2023. This year alone, since January 2024, I've ridden 16,500kms - my longest ride just over 300kms in 12:27hrs - I've done several rides over 200kms this Summer - and my target for the calendar year is 24000kms. I'm not sure I'll make it, but I'll try. The Winds have been a killer of joy, it hasn't stopped me though. Ps. I've only got an entry level gravel bike (heavy), with two sets of wheels - road and gravel- 80% of my rides are road though. I love riding, it's a completely newfound passion. I learn from countless videos such as this. Thanks 👍🚲

[@theroadprovides]

Hey, cheers for watching mate, that’s a lot ok km’s so enjoy smashing that 👍

[@arturduarte113]

@@theroadprovides Thank you. Your videos are very encouraging to anyone who likes riding. Shame you couldn't complete the TCR, but hey - there'll be other years. I'm close to Josh Ibbet's home/territory - you mentioned him a few times. Recently I've attempted to do the first stage of "Further East" 2023 route - 'gravel' route/race - and failed miserably - some sections are so incredibly hard - found myself twice in the very middle of ploughed fields with no track etc. That's the type of races Josh gets involved in - part of the route goes right past his village - and surrounding area - almost certain tracks known to Josh. Road is much more straightforward - just have to cope with rough surfaces/potholes galore - and some disgruntled reckless speedy drivers, now and then - a subject you touched in one of your videos - that's not talked about enough, in my opinion. I don't think reckless driving, rage against cyclists, will be as common as it is in the UK, in the Netherlands, Denmark, mainland Europe Northern countries, perhaps I'm wrong. 👍

[@richardhookway]

Good video Andy! I turned 50 yesterday and have many cycling goals I would like to achieve. I just need to remind myself that I’m not 20 anymore and don’t recover as quickly. However, maintaining a good level of fitness has never been more important.

[@theroadprovides]

Agree mate, happy birthday too 😁

[@jonpoon3896]

I also turned 40 almost exactly same time as you. For ultra cycling, we’re just getting started. I know a fellow on the Isle of Wight in his mid 70s that can definitely destroy both of us in an ultra race

[@theroadprovides]

Happy birthday then old chap

[@fortesfortunajuvat6782]

Never, EVER, let the old man in.

[@p49N]

❤ The first "coach" question::: What can / are you willing to give up, to make room for disciplined 'ultra'? Not to sound didactic, most injur- out in ultra b/c don't adapt well by adjusting (#1 low inflammation nutrition, consistent low /super low weeks (12 hour training weeks avg in early season) cross disciplines, focussed high value saddletime........ cross strength/flex (yoga, pilates) training with a coach help aid balance.

[@theroadprovides]

I think I need to give a little volume in favour of strength and structure is my thinking

[@helendale7668]

I'm 64 and have been cycling for 5-6 years now, having been a runner (30 marathons and plenty of other stuff). Changing to cycling because it hurts a lot less ! I don't race, but have great fun meeting people and seeing new places. The endurance came pretty quickly, did my first 200k 4 years ago and since then have gone on to do longer ( à 600km with 8500m D+ this year ) "brevets", but what I like best are the no-stress rides with a picnic with friends for visiting new places. The thing is if you're tired, rest ! Stuff the training plan if you have one ! Listen to your body !

[@theroadprovides]

I’m doing that this week actually, but tired for a long one :) have a good one

[@LeeWright]

You know what, I have been having this out with my other half about how windy it's been but she doesn't think it's been any windier than usual!???? I told her she must be on another planet as it's been rediculously windy most days on the bike! So great to see someone else saying the same. Anyways great video, feels like it's been a while since we had one like this and reminds me of pre APN and TCR. All the best on your road to recovery bud.

[@theroadprovides]

It’s definitely been windy as hell mate

[@damianlud]

Big shout out to Norman, he had a great time. He’s a top man who is probably going to do it again.

[@theroadprovides]

Really inspiring mate

[@n22pdf]

I’m 51 dude age is just a number I still feel about 20 lol I just don’t worry about it life’s to short.. I intend on always cycling ❤ Pete 🚴‍♀️🚴🏻👍

[@christoph3383]

Hello Andy, Hello Andy, Thank you for your very interesting contributions and insights. I heard a thought in Christoph Strasser's podcast that I would like to pass on. Christoph Strasser, who, like everyone else, had to struggle with numerous difficulties, said that the TCR was not a bike race but a troubleshooting contest and that second place meant more to him than the two victories before, as he had thought about giving up more than once. Unfortunately, I can't recommend the very interesting podcast to you, as it is in German with a strong Austrian accent.🤞for next year.

[@theroadprovides]

Hey, id really love to listen to those but yeah i only speak English ☹️

[@Jaqaroo]

That was really interesting, Andy. Obviously, our priorities and perspectives change with the years. When younger, stronger and faster, people focus more on competing and continual improvement. But later, when older, weaker and slower we focus more on the pure joy of movement, activity and the moment, and Oh! Look at that cake…! At 63, all my longest rides and adventure are still ahead of me, probably. Not such a big difference between 63 and 43, unless you were planning on trying to win TCR. I can honestly say that my chronological age number is not really something I think about too often, especially in terms of my cycling or running. Although, having said that, I’ve increased strength sessions to 3 times a week. I intend to give it some Tom Simpson, “Put me back on my bike.”

[@theroadprovides]

3 sessions a week, is that making a big difference on the bike?

[@Jaqaroo]

@@theroadprovides Keeping the core stronger does seem to help on longer rides.

[@jonathanbenn2241]

As you age there are so physical things that become harder to deal with, but I think the mental side of endurance gets harder. Finding motivation, choosing to ride when there are a million other things calling you. Mental endurance needs to be kept up too.

[@theroadprovides]

Interesting, people have said mental side for better with age also

[@moobaz8675]

I'm 58 next month but mentally I'm 26, it's just the mirrors that lie! I lost my cycling mojo a few years ago but decided to turn my shit around so got a cycling coach and S&C trainer and haven't looked back. It's not all plain sailing but from where I was to where I am now is huge. Endurance riding appeals to me because I can't do speed but I can do distance. Same with gravel riding. At the end of the day it's about having fun and achieving the things that I set myself. Mind you, it's even better embarrassing my daughters and their friends when I strut my stuff in lycra! 🤣

[@theroadprovides]

Haha yeah none of us look great in Lycra, I’ve used the old “my eyes are up here”’a few times 🤣

[@michaellane1316]

We all age quite differently my friend. I didn't get back into cycling until my mid forties. Have always loved cycling as it is an easy form of self indulgence. At 69, I am within 5 years older of looking like you. Always get that raised eyebrow when asked for my ID. I can say that yes, when you hit fifty, things will definitely change. We all know it is inevitable for bone density, muscle mass loss. I would say, no matter what, learn to accept the slow and gradual loss of our stamina, power and endurance. Not to completely shake it off, though there are other ways to confront our eventual decline. I believe it's much easier to do when one gets to 60 plus, not by much but, there may be many ways to decline with dignity.

[@theroadprovides]

Thankyou mate appreciate the reply 😁

[@LIFE_ToBeContinued]

When I'm 64 (in a few weeks) I'm planning for my longest ever ride and, if things go well, I'll do the TCR#12. Structured training is key, I believe as well as cross training ie mixing it up! I also watch my numbers, VO2 Max, heart rate zones etc.

[@theroadprovides]

Ah cool, the TCR is an awesome goal

[@TheMadrac]

The wonder of long distance loops that you can start in the early morning in a headwind and as the weather heats up the wind turns and you go home in a headwind too.

[@theroadprovides]

My favourite

[@daniels.2720]

Hey People > "Stop THINKING Old" !! I'm 60yo. & I'm riding almost better than i did 20 years ago.

[@irondistance4313]

Ha I’m 6 years your senior, and still getting stronger but yeah managing fatigue does require more time and attention than it did even 3 years ago. But I just did my first 200km on Saturday and my 1st marathon in April so yeah going long should still be very doable for the next 20 years with attention to detail and alittle luck. Can’t wait to see where 2025 and beyond take us. 😂

[@theroadprovides]

Oh yeah, how did the 200k go, all good?

[@irondistance4313]

@@theroadprovides it was good 5600 feet of vert, took 9 hours and 44 minutes of total time legs where good I will go further in the future to be sure but I will have more long rides in the lead up

[@cupidstunt1975]

That yellow thing in the sky must be bliss Andy! Weve had an utterly miserable summer up North....

[@theroadprovides]

I bet, it’s been pretty rubbish here

[@SneakerKoenig]

Im just turned 40 and I love to be on my Bike all day. Mtb, Gravel, road, up to 300km. But After all this time I still did not find a saddle/bib combo wich doesnt leave me sore and/or with painfull „pimpels“… 😢 riding more than one day is just impossibel

[@theroadprovides]

Ah, have you tried a quick clean and sudocreme down there before bed? Works for me

[@theroadprovides]

Ah, have you tried a quick clean and sudocreme down there before bed? Works for me

[@Aragorn.Strider]

I know several who are 80+, so you are not even halfway... I also know a guy who did 200+ km at 93 so. Yes when you get older you go slower but you can resist and ignore it still quit a bit

[@hectorkidds9840]

Take a look at the people who clock up the most Audax points in a year, not many in the first flush of youth.

[@LeeWright]

That's because retired people have the time to actually do them :D

[@shivsnorman]

​@@LeeWrightI'm in the older category and work 40hr+/week and MAKE the time to train. 'Lack of time' is NO excuse! Happy exercising folks 👍🙂

[@LeeWright]

@@shivsnorman re-read what I wrote dude - retired people have the time to clock up lots of Audax points. Same in my club, all the retired folks seem to do the most Audaxing. I also make the time to train 10/12h per week around a busy job and young family.

[@frankmoran167]

I'm turning 54. Noticed I can only do 2 weeks on then need an easy week

[@theroadprovides]

That sounds sensible mate

[@iann23]

One could argue that endurance is easier in your 40's because you're not so concerned with going fast.

[@theroadprovides]

I can agree with that mate I couldn’t care less about average speed nowadays :)

[@michael1]

Hmm, I think this is a video you perhaps should have waited until you were 50 or 60 to make. Just comes across a bit silly a 40 year old asking if they're too old. There have been several 40+ year olds in the Tour de France. A bit early for the midlife crisis video 😃 Although perhaps not as bad as the redditors saying they're "feeling their age" when they are about 30.

[@theroadprovides]

Our 30s are when explosive power drops and endurance takes over, that’s the point I’m in my life so made complete sense to me. Not to say I won’t be making this over again as I age.