A new Brooks Saddle would not be the saddle of choice for a modern cyclist who is pinching grams. But, the Brooks Standard Professional was the standard for the professional cyclist of yesteryear. And, like it or not, the saddle is beautiful in its details, and that aspect hasnt changed.The Standard Professional has been reborn for another lifetime and brought to the masses for a limited time out of the Brooks archive. And Brooks thinks that the discerning cyclist who isnt concerned about shaving grams will love it.The Standard Professional saddle is frankly, quite beautiful. Like most Brooks saddles, it has a 10-year guarantee, is hand made, the durable leather breathes well, and shapes to your anatomy providing ultimate comfort for decades.A Lil HistoryThe unique design of the Standard Professional came to fruition through evolution. Its origins lie in the sometimes-obsessive fixation with the weight-cutting, and gram-pinching of competitive cyclists. Yes, even the cyclists of the 1940s wanted their equipment to be as light as possible.In an attempt to stop racers from taking hacksaws and knives to Brooks finely crafted products, they introduced the B17 Competition in the 1950s. The B17 Competition saddle is a direct ancestor to the Standard Professional saddle. Brooks chamfered the edges and left off the bag loops to keep the weight down. They also used solid steel rivets.That saddle eventually evolved into the Standard Professional that Brooks brings back today. The newly re-released saddle features an exclusive hand-chamfered nose, along with copper rivets that first appeared between the late 1960s and early 1970s.The Standard Professional is available in limited quantities through the link below. Grab some cycling history and sit on it, your tush will thank you.Standard Professional Detail and RetailRetail: $240Durable Vegetable Tanned LeatherShapes Over TimeLasting Comfort & BreathabilityExtended 10-Year GuaranteeHandcrafted Since 1866BrooksEngland.comThe post Brooks England Resurrects the Standard Professional, the Original Racing Saddle appeared first on Bikerumor.

In this blog post, we delve into the intriguing topic of how hormones impact exercise. Before we dive in, it's essential to acknowledge that my perspective comes from someone who does not personally experience menstruation and never has. As a cycling coach, I am dedicated to expanding my own understanding of menstruation's impact on training, so I can provide valuable insights to others who may share similar misconceptions or knowledge gaps. Historically, studies on the effects of hormones on exercise performance have predominantly centred around male athletes, leaving limited research specifically addressing the experiences of individuals who menstruate. It is crucial to recognise that hormonal changes associated with menopause and other factors can also influence exercise performance in unique ways. Additionally, it is important to acknowledge that not all individuals who menstruate or engage in exercise identify within traditional gender categories. Hence, it would be erroneous to generalise our findings based solely on gender.As we navigate this complex terrain, we will explore existing research and scientific literature to shed light on the potential impacts of birth control pills on exercise performance. While our knowledge may be constrained due to the limited studies available, we can still glean valuable insights to aid our understanding.Join me on this captivating expedition as we strive to bridge the gaps in knowledge and challenge misconceptions. Together, we can build a more inclusive and informed approach to training that takes into account the diverse experiences and needs of athletes. the menstrual cycle is an integral part of many individuals' lives, and it can sometimes pose challenges when it comes to athletic training and performance. However, with the proper knowledge and approach, individuals can continue to train effectively and achieve their fitness goals throughout their menstrual cycle. The information presented here is based on scientific research and expert advice from reliable sources.Understanding the Menstrual CycleThe menstrual cycle consists of several phases, including the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase, with menstruation occurring at the start of the cycle. These phases are regulated by fluctuating hormone levels, primarily estrogen and progesterone. Understanding how these hormonal changes may affect energy levels, mood, and physical performance is essential.During the follicular phase (days 1-14), estrogen levels gradually rise, leading to increased energy levels and improved endurance. This phase is an excellent time for intense training and high-intensity workouts. Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 when estrogen levels peak, providing a natural boost in performance. In contrast, the luteal phase (days 15-28) is characterised by rising progesterone levels, which may result in fatigue, mood changes, and decreased exercise tolerance.Training Strategies for Each PhaseMenstruation Phase (Days 1-5):It's essential to listen to your body and adjust training intensity based on how you feel.Focus on gentle exercises, such as yoga or light cardio, to alleviate cramps and discomfort.Stay hydrated and ensure an adequate intake of iron and other essential nutrients.Follicular Phase (Days 6-14):Take advantage of the increased energy levels and improved endurance during this phase.Incorporate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or strength training to maximise performance gains.Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support optimal recovery.Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14):Leverage the peak estrogen levels to push for personal bests and more demanding workouts.Engage in endurance exercises, such as cycling, running, or swimming, to take advantage of increased aerobic capacity.Pay attention to hydration and consider adding electrolytes to your routine.Luteal Phase (Days 15-28):Adjust training intensity and focus on workouts that promote relaxation, such as yoga or Pilates.Incorporate more recovery days and prioritise rest to combat fatigue. This is the best time to schedule a recovery and adaptation week.Maintain a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates to sustain energy levels.General Tips for Cycle TrainingTrack Your Cycle: Use a menstrual tracking app or calendar to monitor your cycle and identify performance and mood change patterns. This will help you plan your training accordingly.Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated throughout your cycle and ensure a balanced diet that includes an adequate intake of macronutrients and micronutrients, particularly iron, to support energy levels and overall health.Recovery and Rest: Permit yourself to prioritise rest and recovery when needed. Understand that your body may require additional rest during certain phases of the cycle, and overtraining can negatively impact performance.Mind-Body Connection: Practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness to help manage mood changes and improve overall well-being.Menstrual ProductsWhen it comes to cycle training, the choice of menstrual products becomes an important consideration for many active individuals. Three common options for managing menstruation during physical activities are tampons, pads, and menstrual cups. Each has its advantages, and preferences vary among individuals.Tampons are a popular choice for active individuals because they are discreet, comfortable, and allow for freedom of movement. They are generally considered suitable for activities such as cycling, as they minimise discomfort and stay securely in place.Pads, on the other hand, are absorbent materials that adhere to the underwear and collect menstrual fluid externally. They come in various shapes and sizes to fit different preferences. While pads can provide a sense of security and are easy to use, they may not be the preferred choice for intense physical activities, especially when combined with a cycling chamois. Pads have a higher chance of shifting during movement, which can lead to discomfort and potential leakage. However, for those who prefer not to use internal products, thinner and more flexible pads specifically designed for sports can be an option.Menstrual cups have gained popularity in recent years, especially among environmentally conscious individuals. Made of medical-grade silicone or rubber, menstrual cups are inserted and collect menstrual fluid. They can be worn for up to 12 hours, making them convenient for long training sessions. Menstrual cups are known for their leak-free design, as the cup forms a seal with the vaginal walls. They are reusable and can last for several years, reducing waste compared to disposable products. Some individuals find that menstrual cups provide more comfort and freedom of movement during cycle training compared to tampons or pads.Ultimately, the choice of menstrual products when training depends on personal preference and comfort. While tampons are often favoured for their convenience and discreetness, some individuals may prefer the eco-friendly and leak-free qualities of menstrual cups. It's important to experiment with different products and find the one that best suits your needs and body during physical activities like cycle training.Oral Contraceptive UseOral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are a common form of birth control medication. However, it's essential to note that other methods are also available, such as contraceptive implants and injections. Contraceptive implants are small, flexible rods placed under the skin that release hormones to prevent pregnancy. Similarly, contraceptive injections involve receiving hormone injections every few months to provide contraception. OCPs come in pill form and primarily serve as contraceptives. They work by altering the hormone levels in the body, typically containing synthetic versions of estrogen and progestin, which are similar to hormones naturally produced by the body. Changing these hormone levels, OCPs prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining.However, the use of OCPs extends beyond contraception. They are also prescribed for various other reasons. For instance, some individuals may use OCPs to regulate heavy or irregular menstruation. Providing a consistent hormonal environment, OCPs can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and increase regular cycles. In some cases, OCPs may be used to suppress menstruation entirely. This can benefit individuals with conditions such as endometriosis, where uterine tissue growth outside the uterus can cause severe pain and discomfort. By suppressing menstruation, OCPs can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Furthermore, OCPs are sometimes prescribed to manage hormonal imbalances that can cause acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). By regulating hormone levels, OCPs can help improve these conditions and promote overall well-being.Studies Success at the Olympic level often comes down to tiny differences. However, there hasnt been much study into how the monthly cycle affects elite athletes' performance and decision-making. A recent study tried to fill this gap in knowledge by using different research methods. This preliminary study Understanding the Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on Training and Performance in Elite Athletes, by Georgia Statham, aims to shed light on the effects of the menstrual cycle on training and performance in this specific population. By examining the potential influence of hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle, this research provides valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and sports scientists.The study looked at data from eight top athletes over seven months to see how their performance changed during different parts of their menstrual cycle. They also tested their decision-making abilities using the Cambridge Gambling Task. They interviewed two elite athletes, two Olympic-level athletes, and two coaches to gather more information.The results showed that performance was better during the menstrual phase than other phases. However, the effects varied among individual athletes. Interestingly, athletes who took oral contraceptives experienced a more significant change in performance between menstrual and different phases, suggesting that the contraceptives may negatively impact performance for some athletes. The study also found that impulsivity changed depending on the menstrual cycle phase, but risk-taking, error rates, and response times were not affected significantly.The interviews revealed that athletes and coaches didn't know much about the menstrual cycle. Despite this lack of understanding, there were preconceived ideas that the menstrual cycle could harm performance during the menstrual phase.As we already know, in the realm of elite sports, the impact of the menstrual cycle and exogenous hormone use on training and recovery remains largely unexplored. However, further findings from the study Patterns of Endogenous and Exogenous Ovarian Hormone Modulation on Recovery Metrics across the Menstrual Cycle shed light on the influence of ovarian hormones and birth control on athletes' adaptation to training load and stress. These discoveries, which will undoubtedly shape future training practices, were uncovered by researchers delving into the intricate relationship between hormonal fluctuations and athletic performance. Let's delve into the key findings and their potential implications for the field.In these important studies, researchers discovered some key information about how the menstrual cycle, birth control, and athletic performance are connected. They found that the hormones produced by the ovaries have a big impact on how well athletes recover from training and handle stress during the menstrual cycle. Specifically, during the luteal phase (when progesterone levels are high), athletes had more strain and took longer to recover. This happens because progesterone stimulates the autonomic nervous system, which affects the body's response to stress.They also compared athletes who used birth control to those who didn't. The athletes on birth control had different recovery patterns compared to those on a natural menstrual cycle. They didn't adapt as well to stress throughout all phases of the pill. The study also showed that using birth control, like the pill, affected day-to-day recovery from intense exercise more than the natural menstrual cycle did.Furthermore, the researchers looked at athletes who used a specific type of birth control called progestin-only birth control. These athletes had a different pattern of recovery compared to those on a natural cycle. In the late luteal phase, the effects of this type of birth control on the autonomic nervous system were less pronounced.Outlining the key findings from the 2020 study titled The Effects of Oral Contraceptives on Exercise Performance in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis,the researchers reviewed 42 studies involving 590 participants, and some interesting findings emerged. The study found something extraordinary When comparing individuals using OCPs with those who menstruate naturally, the study found something extraordinary. The chances of seeing a small improvement in exercise performance for individuals using OCPs were almost zero! In contrast, individuals who menstruate naturally had a moderate or small advantage in performance, depending on the comparison method. This reveals intriguing differences between the two groups.Looking at performance during OCP use versus withdrawal, the study found something remarkable. There was almost no chance of seeing a small effect on exercise performance in either direction. In other words, using OCPs or not using them didn't seem to have much impact on individual exercise performance.Based on the evidence, the study suggests that, on average, individuals using OCPs might have slightly lower exercise performance than those who naturally menstruate. However, the overall impact at the group level will likely be minimal. Due to the variability of effects across studies, giving general recommendations about using OCPs for exercise performance is not justified. Instead, it's better to personalise your approach and prioritise what works best for you. Every individual's body is unique, so finding the right strategy for you is essential. It's worth noting that exercise performance remained consistent throughout the OCP cycle, offering some stability in this complex situation.Implications These groundbreaking findings and others like them have important implications for sports and exercise training programs. It is crucial to consider the hormonal influence of ovarian hormones on the autonomic nervous system (ANS) when designing training methodologies. Currently, this aspect is often overlooked. By recognising the differences between endogenous (natural) and exogenous (birth control) hormone profiles, coaches and riders can customise training programs to optimise adaptation to training loads in athletes who menstruate. The understanding of how different hormone profiles affect recovery metrics opens up possibilities for individualised training approaches. Taking into account the specific needs of athletes during different phases of the menstrual cycle can lead to more tailored and effective training strategies. It is important for coaches and practitioners to acknowledge the impact of birth control on recovery and training adaptations. Being aware of the variations caused by exogenous hormone use can help in designing training programs that optimise performance and minimise potential negative effects.In conclusion, these groundbreaking studies investigating the interplay between the menstrual cycle, birth control, and athletic performance provide valuable insights for future clinical practice. By recognising the modulatory effects of ovarian hormones and differentiating between endogenous and exogenous hormone profiles, sports professionals can optimise training methodologies and enhance the adaptation of menstruating athletes to training loads, ultimately improving their overall performance and well-being. Furthermore, these studies emphasise the significant impact of the menstrual cycle on elite athletes' performance, highlighting the importance of understanding and tracking menstrual patterns to enhance physical and mental performance potentially. By acknowledging the effects of the menstrual cycle and employing appropriate strategies, athletes and coaches can optimise performance throughout different phases of the cycle, unlocking their full potential.When it comes to cycle training and managing your period, it's not just important for individuals to understand their options, but it's also crucial for coaches to take the time to learn about it. With this knowledge, coaches can better support their athletes and help them navigate their personal performance journey. Whether an athlete uses oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) to regulate their cycle or menstruates naturally, it's essential to explore different exercise routines, listen to their body, and make adjustments based on what works best for them. Each athlete is the main character in their own fitness story, and the possibilities for growth and success are limitless. Coaches play a vital role in empowering their athletes to embrace their uniqueness and tailor their training accordingly. By creating a supportive and understanding environment, coaches can help athletes reach their full potential and thrive in their cycle training endeavours.Sources and Further ReadingCarmichael MA, Thomson RL, Moran LJ, Wycherley TP. The Impact of Menstrual Cycle Phase on Athletes Performance: A Narrative Review. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041667 Elliott-Sale KJ, McNulty KL, Ansdell P, et al. The Effects of Oral Contraceptives on Exercise Performance in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7497464/ Sims ST, Ware L, Capodilupo ER. Patterns of endogenous and exogenous ovarian hormone modulation on recovery metrics across the menstrual cyclehttps://bmjopensem.bmj.com/content/7/3/e001047 Georgia Statham. Chapter 3 - Understanding the effects of the menstrual cycle on training and performance in elite athletes: A preliminary study. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.pbr.2020.05.028 How period tracking can give all female athletes an edge. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/shortcuts/2019/jul/10/how-period-tracking-can-give-all-female-athletes-an-edge 5 Reasons You Should Use A Menstrual Cup For Cycling: The Menstrual Cup Lowdown from a Fellow Bike Enthusiast.https://www.femmecyclist.com/menstrual-cup-cycling/ Is the Menstrual Cup the Answer to Cycling During your Period?https://totalwomenscycling.com/lifestyle/cycling-during-your-period

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UPDATED June 6, 2024BY Guest AuthorINTour d'Afrique no comments The X-RayDave Auger was a participant in the first ever Tour dAfrique Cycling Expedition in 2003. He writes, During Covid-19 I, like so many others, had an abundance of time due to mandated isolation. I decided to write short stories from memories of my life that just popped into my head as I was thinking of what to write about. I ended up writing more that 60 short stories and decided to package up all the pages and get Staples to put them into booklet form. The title of this little book is: Lifes A Journey Musings of an Old Fart during Covid 19. This story of my experience on the Tour dAfrique, titled THE X-RAY, just made it in before it went to print.I am in the habit of saving large manila reusable envelopes for future use. I dug into my stash and found a large heavy duty envelope that would be perfect for my income tax documents to forward to my tax accountant. This envelope had the word X-RAY in large bold letters written on it as well as a bunch of Arabic writing, which of course, I could not read. It is this envelope which brings back memories for my next story.In January of 2003 I set off on an epic bicycle journey from Cairo to South Africa the Tour dAfrique. There was a support team that carried our tents and gear. There was a doctor from each of the countries that we were to go through and an experienced East Indian nurse from South Africa who was to stay with us for the entire trip.Dave (far left) gives the thumbs-up at a group dinner in EgyptWe were on the second day of our Sudan section and the roads were horrible just after lunch the road became better but still rough I was going up a short, steep hill and spun out from being in too high a gear and fell onto the road and hit my elbow on a large rock. I was pretty sure that I broke my arm. I knew that the support vehicle would be along soon so all I could do was wait. I could see a small cluster of huts off in the distance and saw a mangy looking dog wandering towards me. I didnt want the dog to see me in case it was rabid or created some other issues that I was in no position to deal with.Once I was picked up, it became clear that our nurse was a take charge kind of person and quickly brought me to a small dusty looking first aid station. By this time my arm was aching and swelling up. The local doctor, like the doctor on our trip, let our experienced nurse continue to look after me in his facility. She took me to the operating room. It was a small, long, windowless and rather dark room to examine me on a table.Dave (L) with fellow rider Hermione after the accidentA cinematographer had joined our group the night before my accident and decided to come along to the clinic to see if he could find anything to shoot. Our nurse put his camera lights to good use by having him shine them on my injured arm. There were some unknown type of insects flying around the room and a person in the room spraying some substance in the air to keep them under control. I recognized the device from my childhood as a Fly Tox sprayer which had a tank on the end and a long tube that held a rod that forced a spray out of a nozzle.What a sight it was with all these people standing around this room while the nurse sliced a small section of my elbow open to relieve the pressure that continued to build up in my arm. She was worried that the swelling would put too much pressure on my ulna nerve which might affect the movement of my lower arm. There was no x-ray machine at this clinic. She installed a little plastic device that would allow giving me antibiotics by needle a little easier, bandaged up my arm and put on a temporary cast.Before we left the first aid station I paid the resident doctor for the supplies we used including enough antibiotics to get me to a clinic in Khartoum a few days away. The amount of money he asked for was so low that I felt compelled to give him many times more than what he was asking for.Because I couldnt ride my bike or set up my tent I spent our travel time in the SAG wagon. The next day and night we stayed at a town called Dongola which had a regional, walled, boarding school. Henry Gold our trip organizer and leader arranged for me to stay at the school and share a small, dirt floor room that was used by some of the teachers. Three teachers brought me food and sat on the floor in a circle and pulled a bed into the circle so that we could all eat and chat together. One of the teachers could speak fairly good English.Henry had arranged a bus ride for me to go to Khartoum as well as a stay at a hotel owned by a friend of his. The trip to Khartoum was interesting. I met a teacher from Khartoum who was visiting Dongala scouting for students who might make good teachers. He wanted me to visit his school in the city and talk to his students which I agreed to do but as it turned out I wasnt able to because of the time spent at the clinic. Our bus held about 20 people and was attended to by a steward who looked after a container of water with a dipper that was offered to passengers who were thirsty. The passenger section was separate from the drivers area and to communicate with the driver the steward would open a window and pound on the window of the driver section and they would yell back and forth to pass on information.On our journey we came across a family whose old 4 wheel drive truck was stuck in the sand. Our bus driver stopped and the able bodied men in the bus helped push them out it reminded me of my helping someone out of a snowbank back home. Just as the family was rescued from being stuck I looked up and saw a small camel caravan off in the horizon passing through the desert what a wonderful sight. This was before I had a digital camera and was not able to get a good shot.When I got to my hotel, the hotel owner arranged for a driver to spend the next day with me to take me to the Foreigners clinic and arrange for the trip home. The hotel was over a hundred years old it was a solid, well built, two storey structure. There was no plumbing in my room but it was spacious with a big beautiful armoire. There was a porcelain water jug and basin on a stand for customers to clean up. Down the hallway there was a bathroom that contained a tub and toilet.The injury to my arm made it difficult to have a bath but it felt good to clean up after being on a dusty road. Khartoum is the capital city of Sudan and is where the White Nile converges with the Blue Nile. At the clinic you had to pay in advance for medical services they had a cashier at the entrance and once you told them who you were seeing they advised what the fee was. I was brought to a female ER doctor who greeted me and sent me on to get an x-ray. Before getting an x-ray of course I was off to the cashier. The x-ray room contained an older looking machine with a heavy cable leading out into the hallway where the technician controlled the unit.I took the x-ray back to the ER doctor who confirmed that my arm was broken and she suggested that a surgeon look at the x-ray and my injury so off to the cashier I went again! The surgeon said that he could operate on my arm but I asked him, for travel insurance purposes, if he could write a note suggesting that I get the surgery done in Canada. He gave me the letter and a script for an antibiotic and I was off to try to get a ride home.I was not scheduled to come home until the end of the trip in South Africa in May and had trouble with Lufthansa (a German airline) so I just flew them to Frankfurt, Germany. I then went to the Air Canada terminal where, after telling them my story, I was treated me like royalty. My return ticket in May was Economy and a fixed date. They not only let me update my ticket at no charge but gave me a business class seat! They also gave me a pass for the Maple Leaf lounge where I could eat whatever I wanted and could clean myself up in the lounge washrooms. Talk about service!I had purchased a satellite phone package before my trip to keep in touch with my wife Marie but did not call her after my accident when I got to the airport in Toronto I called her and she said that I sounded like I was calling from next door. I told her what happened and said that once I got home I would take a bath then go to the hospital for an x-ray and an operation.I didnt make it to South Africa as planned but ended up with a pretty good story!RELATEDTOURTour d'AfriqueThe trans-African crossing from Cairo to Cape Town has long been one of the worlds epic journeys and an iconic goal for global adventurers. Over... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "The X-Ray" Cancel reply

CyclistMens Tour de France 2024: Route, how to watch and all you need to knowThe 2024 Tour de France is almost upon us. The race will start in Florence, Italy on Saturday 29th June and finish in Nice on Sunday 21st July, with Visma-Lease a Bikes Jonas Vingegaard on track to attempt to defend his title against rival Tadej Pogaar, former teammate Primo Rogli and Belgiums great hope Remco Evenepoel.With a Grand Dpart in Italy for the first time and the finish outside Paris for the first time because of the Olympics, it will be a historic edition whatever happens during the race. It also means that it will be full gas racing from start to finish, with the opening stage from Florence to Rimini going straight in at the deep end with 3,600m of climbing on a hilly stage through Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna and San Marino which will become the 13th foreign country to host the Tour. The finale in Nice wont be a procession like we normally see in Paris either, instead the 2024 Tour will finish with a time-trial starting in Monaco and finishing at the Place Massna, just off the Promenade des Anglais in Nice.To separate riders between those stages (although lets hope not too much to keep the drama going all the way to that final day la Greg LeMond in 1989) will be not only an array of Frances toughest climbs including the Col du Galibier, Puy Mary, Col du Tourmalet (yes, again), Hourquette dAncizan, Pla dAdet, Col de Peyresourde, Plateau de Beille, Col du Noyer, Col de Vars, Cime de la Bonette, Isola 2000, Col de Turini and the Col de la Couillole (and breathe), but also a gravel stage with 14 sectors around the Champagne gravel roads, as seen in the 2022 Tour de France Femmes.All in all its officially eight flat stages for Mark Cavendish to get win #35, four hilly stages for spice, seven mountain stages for whittling down the GC, four summit finishes for maximum drama and two time-trials for Jonas Vingegaard to cement win #3. Related Posts Who actually are the team sponsors at the Tour de France 2024? Best places to cycle in the French Alps Tour de France Femmes 2024 route announced ft. Alpe dHuez and a mini Monument All the WorldTour team bikes, tech and kit 2024 Classic climb: Cime de la Bonette, Europes highest pass or is it? Tour de France 2024: Key informationJasper Jacobs/Belga/GodingImagesDates: Saturday 29th June to Sunday 21st July 2024Grand Dpart: Florence, ItalyFinale: Nice, FranceTotal elevation gain: 52,230mTotal prize money: 2.3millionUK television coverage: ITV4, Eurosport, GCN+, S4C2023 winner: Jonas Vingegaard (Jumbo-Visma)Most overall wins: Jacques Anquetil, Bernard Hinault, Miguel Indurain, Eddy Merckx (all 5)Most stage wins:Eddy Merckx, Mark Cavendish (34)Tour de France 2024 routeASOWhile the route doesnt go to Paris, it does flirt with its le-de-France region with stages in nearby Orlans and Troyes. The lack of Paris finish does mean that the transfers between stages look less drastic, which is a good thing. And not finishing with a procession is exciting. Maybe they should sack Paris off altogether can 2025 finish in Brittany?Tour de France 2024 stage-by-stage previewStage 1: Saturday 29th June, Florence Rimini, 206kmOfficially the hardest opening stage in Tour de France history, this beast begins by crossing Florences Ponte Vecchio and takes on a load of hills, including the climb up to San Marino, to create early gaps.Stage 2: Sunday 30th June, Cesenatico Bologne, 199.2kmStarting in Marco Pantanis hometown of Cesenatico, its another hilly stage through Emilia-Romagna, finishing with two goes round a circuit including the Cte de San Luca, which is traditionally used in the Giro dellEmilia.Stage 3: Monday 1st July, Plaisance Turino, 230.8kmSprint day #1 should Mark get the job done early or keep some suspense for the story?Stage 4: Tuesday 2nd July, Pinerolo Valloire, 139.6kmYes its only Stage 4 and its mountains. And not just any mountains, its the Galibier and probably the races earliest Souvenir Henri Desgrange prize, although it wont be the highest summit of this years race.Stage 5: Wednesday 3rd July, Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne Saint-Vulbas, 177.4kmDespite being firmly in mountain region still, Stage 5 takes us through the valley for the second sprinters day.Stage 6: Thursday 4th July, Mcon Dijon, 163.5kmLets hope Mark Cavendish can cut the mustard in Dijon, its sprint three.Stage 7: Friday 5th July, Nuits-Saint-Georges Gevrey-Chambertin, 25.3km, ITTThe first time-trial of the race comes in wine country, but no champagne will be sprayed yet (thats Stage 9). Its set to be flat apart from a 1.6km, 6.1% average kicker near the end. Someone tell Tadej Pogaar that its not enough to warrant a bike change.Stage 8: Saturday 6th July, Semur-En-Auxois Colombey-les-Deux-glises, 183.4kmThere are five categorised climbs on this one but nothing too crazy that a sprint can be ruled out. Stage 9: Sunday 7th July, Troyes Troyes, 199km with 14 gravel sectorsStage 9 will be a day of reckoning for Jonas Vingegaard, who struggled on the cobbles of Roubaix in 2022, as now-cobbles legend Pogaar will surely look to put the pressure on his Danish rival over these 14 gravel sectors. For a taste of whats in store, look back on Stage 4 of the 2022 Tour de France Femmes.Stage 10: Tuesday 9th July, Orlans Saint-Amand-Montrond, 187.3kmRace director Christian Prudhomme is making an early prediction of echeleons in this one, so no doubt itll be a slow bunch sprint day. If not, Cavendish has done the business in the crosswinds before.Stage 11: Wednesday 10th July, vaux-les-Bains Le Lioran, 211kmIt doesnt look that impressive, but apparently theres 4,350m of elevation gain on this one, including the brutal Puy Mary Pas de Peyrol climb. Its the only day in the Massif Central.Stage 12: Thursday 11th July, Aurillac Villeneuve-sur-Lot, 203.6kmIts probably a breakaway day with hills including the opposite way up where the final time-trial of the 2022 race went at the beautiful Rocamadour, but a versatile sprinter could take it.Stage 13: Friday 12th July, Agen Pau, 165.3kmThis will likely be a sprinter that can climb with a few hills as the teams will surely put the pressure on.Stage 14: Saturday 13th July, Pau Saint-Lary-Soulan Pla dAdet, 151.9kmIts a big boy. Three brutal climbs, finishing in the exact spot that Raymond Poulidor won in 1974, apparently. Will Mathieu van der Poel have to talk about his grandpa again?Stage 15: Sunday 14th July, Loudenvielle Plateau de Beille, 197.7kmGet the turbos out lads, its straight into the Peyresourde. Five categorised climbs across 198km with 4,850m of elevation. Count your lucky stars this isnt the tape stage.Stage 16: Tuesday 16th July, Gruissan Nimes, 188.6kmIts a sprint, thankfully theyve had a rest day to prepare. If Cav hasnt done it by now then pray for teeth, nails, hair and hearts worldwide.Stage 17: Wednesday 17th July, Saint-Paul-Trois-Chteaux Superdvoluy, 177.8kmIt looks like its one long 178km climb, so that means the breakaway has no chance. Pogaar uphill sprint win loading.Stage 18: Thursday 18th July, Gap Barcelonette, 179.5kmPrudhomme reckons this is a sprint day, but considering its officially classed as hilly, Cavendish wont be contesting this one. There are a few hills to play with so its more likely to be a breakaway or a puncheur.Stage 19: Friday 19th July, Embrun Isola 2000, 144.6kmThats another humongous day. Not only is the Cime de la Bonette the highest point of the race, its the highest road in France and third highest in Europe.Stage 20: Saturday 20th July, Nice Col de la Couillole, 132.8kmThe final mountain stage looks set to be epic. Thats how a Tour de France profile should look, stunning. Early doors its the TV climbs like the Turini to get the blood pumping, and it culminates in the 15.7km climb up the Couillole to see if the fight for yellow will be decided in a final day time-trial.This one is the 2024 tape du Tour. Some day out that will be.Stage 21: Sunday 21st July, Monaco Nice, 33.7km, ITTIt could well be the most exciting finish to a Tour de France since 1989, although that hype probably means itll be sewn up by Stage 6. Its by no means flat, climbing up the 8.1km, 5.6% average La Turbie out of Monaco and the 1.6km, 8.1% side of the Col dze before descending into Nice. Could an Englishman win on the Promenade des Anglais? Probs not, sorry.Tour de France 2024: How to watch on live TV and streamingThe 2024 Tour de France will be available to watch in the UK on ITV4 and ITVX for free, and Eurosport 1 for those with the channel. You can also stream it onDiscovery+for 6.99 per month with the basic package, which includes cycling and all other Eurosport programmes.It is being broadcast across 198 countries, but its not being shown in your country, you may be able to watch coverage using a VPN Virtual Private Network which allows users to mask their IP address and watch geo-blocked content, provided they dont need to pay for a subscription. This is also helpful for watching paid-for coverage while travelling abroad in countries without access. One such example isExpressVPN, which is verywell reviewed, helps users to find a way to watch cycling without having to pay for broadcasters services, and costs 5.36 per month, with three months free.Other options includeNordVPN,SurfsharkandKapersky.How to watch the Tour de France in EuropeEurope: EurosportBasque Country: EiTBBelgium: RTBF, VRTCzech Republic: esk TelevizeDenmark: TV2France: France TVGermany: ARD, Discovery+Ireland: TG4Italy: Discovery+, RAI SportLuxembourg: RTLNetherlands: Discovery+, NOSNorway: TV2Portugal: RTPScandinavia: Discovery+Slovakia: RTVSSlovenia: RTV SLOSpain: RTVESwitzerland: SRG-SSRUnited States: Discovery+, Eurosport, ITVWales: S4CHow to watch the Tour de France in North and Central AmericaCanada: FloBikesCaribbean: ESPNLatin America: ESPNUnited States: NBC Sports, TV5 MondeHow to watch the Tour de France in South AmericaColombia: CaracolTVLatin America: ESPNSouth America: TV5 MondeHow to watch the Tour de France in AsiaChina: CCTV, Zhibo TVJapan: J SportsMiddle East: BeIN Sports, TV5 MondeSoutheast Asia: EurosportHow to watch the Tour de France in OceaniaAustralia: SBSNew Zealand: Sky SportHow to watch the Tour de France in AfricaAfrica: TV5 MondeNorth Africa: BeIN SportsSubsaharan Africa: SupersportTour de France 2024 start listData powered by FirstCycling.comFor all Tour de France-related news, head to our hub page Related Posts Who actually are the team sponsors at the Tour de France 2024? Best places to cycle in the French Alps Tour de France Femmes 2024 route announced ft. Alpe dHuez and a mini Monument All the WorldTour team bikes, tech and kit 2024 Classic climb: Cime de la Bonette, Europes highest pass or is it? The post Mens Tour de France 2024: Route, how to watch and all you need to know appeared first on Cyclist.

On the 8th of June takes place one of Belgium's most popular classics. Ahead of the national championships the explosive Dwars door het Hageland will provide an opportunity for many to test their form. We take a look at the startlist.The final startlist includes riders such as: Rasmus Tiller, Jonas...

Welcome to Saddle Up Cycling, where we not only celebrate the sport of cycling but also emphasise the importance of embracing the joy and freedom that comes with it. In this blog post, we'll explore the profound impact of having fun on the bike and how it can transform your training, making you stronger, faster, and more fulfilled. So, let's hop on our saddles, pedal back to carefree moments, and delve into the exhilarating world of cycling with a playful spirit!Rediscovering the Essence of Cycling In the pursuit of training goals and structured workouts, it's easy to forget why we fell in love with cycling in the first place. By infusing our rides with fun, we reconnect with the essence of the sport, reminding ourselves of the sheer joy and exhilaration that accompanies every pedal stroke. The bike becomes more than just a training tool; it transforms into a gateway to happiness and adventure.Enhanced Motivation and ConsistencyWhen we genuinely enjoy our time on the bike, motivation comes naturally. The act of having fun becomes a driving force that propels us forward, ensuring we eagerly anticipate each ride. As a result, we maintain consistency in our training, which is key to achieving long-term progress and unlocking our true potential as cyclists.Mental Refreshment and Stress Relief Cycling, approached with a playful mindset, offers an escape from the daily grind. It allows us to immerse ourselves in the present moment, leaving behind worries and stress. The rush of endorphins and the wind in our face work wonders for our mental well-being, refreshing our minds and rejuvenating our spirits. Embracing fun on the bike serves as a form of active meditation, nurturing our mental health and promoting a positive mindset.Increased Physical Endurance Contrary to popular belief, fun and serious training are not mutually exclusive. In fact, infusing our workouts with an element of enjoyment can yield surprising physical benefits. When we're having fun, we're more likely to push our limits and explore new territories. Playful rides may lead to longer durations, additional climbs, or even spontaneous sprints. By breaking free from the rigidity of a structured workout, we challenge ourselves in new ways, enhancing our endurance and building mental fortitude.Skill Development and Technical ProficiencyApproaching cycling with a playful spirit encourages experimentation, helping us develop essential bike handling skills and technical proficiency. Whether it's navigating tight turns, tackling technical trails, or practicing new maneuvers, having fun on the bike allows us to explore our capabilities and expand our skill set. As our confidence grows, we become more agile, versatile, and confident cyclists, ready to conquer any challenge that comes our way.Social Connections and Community BuildingWhilst we are on our long solo training rides, perhaps it doesnt always seem like it, but cycling is inherently a social activity. Embracing the fun aspect only amplifies its social benefits. Group rides, cycling clubs, and events provide opportunities to connect with fellow riders who share our passion. The camaraderie fostered through shared experiences on the bike creates lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging within the cycling community. The joy and laughter shared during these moments make cycling all the more memorable and rewarding. Skills SessionsSkill sessions provide a unique opportunity for adults to unleash their inner child while honing their cycling abilities. These sessions allow us to playfully explore new techniques, conquer challenges, and push our boundaries in a supportive and fun environment. Like children learning to ride for the first time, we can relish the exhilaration of trying new skills, such as cornering, bunny hopping, or even executing stylish wheelies. In this process, we develop greater control and finesse on the bike and boost our confidence levels. The sense of accomplishment from mastering these skills ignites a childlike excitement within us, reminding us of the fearless determination we possessed during our younger years. Skill sessions offer a valuable opportunity to embrace our playful nature while fostering personal growth and enhancing our overall cycling experience.Remember, cycling is not just about training and achieving goals. It's about rediscovering the joy and freedom that made us fall in love with it in the first place. So, embrace the childlike spirit, have fun, and let the bike be your ultimate playground for growth, adventure, and endless smiles.So, as you embark on your cycling adventures, remember to embrace the playful spirit, savor every moment, and let the sheer fun of riding propel you toward becoming a more robust, faster, and more fulfilled cyclist.Now, it's time to saddle up!

The post The Story Behind: Northumberland Reivers Trails appeared first on Skedaddle Blog.