Epic Heatstroke; Highway # 24
This past Sunday, I rode my QR Tri bike out to Green Mountain Falls, from my home near the Air Force Academy. To test my 'tough factor', I left at 11:00 am, and rode during the heat of the day! NOT RECOMMENDED!
My findings were a heart rate that was too high to sustain for a period of 3 plus hours, and ultimately, heatstroke. At around 4 miles up Highway # 24, I found my cadence to be seriously compromised. The hot exhaust of accelarating cars, and heavy traffic, also contributed to a further demoralizing effect.
The bike lane along Hwy # 24 is practically non-esistent and is covered with debris. My Conti sew ups (20") are bombroof; they get the credit.
The affects of heatstroke can be serious and far-reaching. Symptoms of dizziness, listlessness and fatigue are present for about one week. Rehydration, with electrolyte replacement, and an emplasis on fruits, and protein, are required.
Also, even though I took Endurolytes (x2 capsules) at the onset of my ride, and 2 more at hour 2, the extreme effects of a 95 degree day, were dileterious on me. Additionally, I used Champion Nutrition's Lactic Acid buffering "Muscle Nitro", and Hammer Nutrition's "Race Caps". Both successfully contributed to lack of cramping and the feeling of 'heavy legs'.
The fast and fun descent surprised me several times with cross winds, increasing as the day wore on. My HED CX wheels further exacerbated the stability of a fast, 50 mph descent. That said, it was challenging and fun! Forward momentum is always a best friend.
Riding should be done early in the morning; I undertook this experiment because I am somewhat new to altitude, and am curious about the effects of heat and altitude on the body.
Don't do this at home.
Lynne Fonda
Sunday June 24, 2007
This past Sunday, I rode my QR Tri bike out to Green Mountain Falls, from my home near the Air Force Academy. To test my 'tough factor', I left at 11:00 am, and rode during the heat of the day! NOT RECOMMENDED!
My findings were a heart rate that was too high to sustain for a period of 3 plus hours, and ultimately, heatstroke. At around 4 miles up Highway # 24, I found my cadence to be seriously compromised. The hot exhaust of accelarating cars, and heavy traffic, also contributed to a further demoralizing effect.
The bike lane along Hwy # 24 is practically non-esistent and is covered with debris. My Conti sew ups (20") are bombroof; they get the credit.
The affects of heatstroke can be serious and far-reaching. Symptoms of dizziness, listlessness and fatigue are present for about one week. Rehydration, with electrolyte replacement, and an emplasis on fruits, and protein, are required.
Also, even though I took Endurolytes (x2 capsules) at the onset of my ride, and 2 more at hour 2, the extreme effects of a 95 degree day, were dileterious on me. Additionally, I used Champion Nutrition's Lactic Acid buffering "Muscle Nitro", and Hammer Nutrition's "Race Caps". Both successfully contributed to lack of cramping and the feeling of 'heavy legs'.
The fast and fun descent surprised me several times with cross winds, increasing as the day wore on. My HED CX wheels further exacerbated the stability of a fast, 50 mph descent. That said, it was challenging and fun! Forward momentum is always a best friend.
Riding should be done early in the morning; I undertook this experiment because I am somewhat new to altitude, and am curious about the effects of heat and altitude on the body.
Don't do this at home.
Lynne Fonda
Sunday June 24, 2007
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