So you just signed up for a major riding event. Now what?

Maybe you were inspired by ringing in the New Year. Or maybe you have a really persuasive friend. Maybe it was a bucket list item that’s finally getting checked off.

No matter the scenario, you likely have one thing on your mind: you just signed up for one of Cascade’s major riding events and suddenly find yourself wondering “now what?” 

Cascade’s major events range from 12 miles to 200. And no matter what kind of rider you are and how much experience you have, it’s always great to spend some time on the bike before showing up at the start line.

Luckily, Cascade has some programs that can help. 

If your plan for 2019 is to tackle one of the big rides like the STP, RSVP or even Flying Wheels, the Cascade Training Series (CTS) is a great first step. CTS is a paid-for series that begins with a group orientation in mid-March that prepares bicyclists for the upcoming series. Participants can expect to learn safe group riding skills and suggestions for cross training, strength building, nutrition and lots more. The training series consists of a 13-week comprehensive training program beginning in April designed to increase your endurance and prepare you for long-distance events. The training rides are held on Saturdays and grow progressively longer and more difficult to help participants build endurance for some of Cascade's longer rides later in the riding season. 

CTS is best suited for riders who can already comfortably ride 20 miles at their chosen pace without stopping. You can learn more about CTS and sign up now by visiting our webpage.

The Rider Orientations for this series are: March 16 (Saturday, 3:30 p.m.) and March 21 (Thursday, 6:30 p.m.) The first day of CTS training is Saturday, April 6. 

If CTS sounds a little advanced for you, or maybe you’d like to train for a shorter ride, Cascade’s Getting Ready to Ride (GR2R) series might just be the next best thing. GR2R is part of Cascade’s Free Group Rides program that offers free riding opportunities all over the Puget Sound region. What sets it apart is that GR2R is designed specifically to get you ready for CTS and other more in-depth training rides. By the end of the 8-week program, you’ll be able to comfortably ride more than 20 miles and you will be well on your way to the start line of your 2019 event. GR2R has four ride series starting in Seattle, on the eastside, and in the north and south ends. Learn more about GR2R, and then visit the Free Group Rides calendar to find upcoming rides beginning in February. 

No matter which Cascade ride you’ve chosen to crush in 2019, (we hope it’s many!) we’ve got ways to help get you there. We can’t wait to see you out there.