So you want to do a Century ride!? A quick guide to your first 100.

There’s a strange kind of madness that makes someone look at their bike and think, Yeah, I’m going to ride 100 kilometres. Or 100 miles, if you’re feeling particularly masochistic. Either way, the first time you decide to ride a “century,” you’re signing up for a physical challenge, a mental battle, and a weird kind of enlightenment that only comes somewhere between hour four and mild hallucination.

I started from zero. Not “couch potato” zero, but close enough. What did I learned? You don’t conquer a century, you build to it.

Start Slow, Build Smart

Forget hero rides and Strava glory. When you’re just starting, the only metric that matters is distance. I found that adding about 20 km per week to my long ride was the sweet spot, enough to make progress, not enough to hate your bike.

The temptation to chase speed will creep in, especially when that one dude in full Lycra zips past you like you’re standing still. Ignore him. Endurance isn’t about speed; it’s about control. You’re not training to sprint; you’re training to stay alive and maybe still like cycling when it’s over.

Fit Is Everything

If you’re riding more than four hours, comfort isn’t a luxury; it’s survival. A proper bike fit is non-negotiable. Wrong saddle height or bar reach might not feel like a big deal at 20 km, but it’ll feel like medieval torture at 80. Don’t cheap out. Go see a professional.

Your back, neck, knees, and dignity will thank you.

Fuel Like It Matters (Because It Does)

Here’s the thing: you can’t out-stubborn bonking. Your body will shut down if you don’t feed it. Plan to take in about 300 calories per hour on the bike. Mix in solid food early (bananas, bars, peanut butter wraps) and switch to gels or chews later when chewing feels like a chore.

And for the love of your quads, don’t forget electrolytes. Plain water won’t cut it after three hours. Cramping mid-ride feels like being tasered by your own muscles. Trust me; you don’t want that scene on a country road.

The Bum Situation

Let’s talk about it. You’re going to be sitting on a tiny piece of plastic for hours. It doesn’t matter how “ergonomic” your saddle is; your bum’s going to file a complaint.

So here’s the secret sauce: Vaseline or Eucerin. Just… apply liberally. Don’t ask questions, don’t be shy, just do it. Think of it as your personal peace treaty between man and saddle. You’ll thank me later.

The Mental Game

The halfway point feels great, until you realize it’s only halfway. Every century ride has a moment where you question every life choice that led you here. That’s normal. You’re not dying (probably). Keep spinning, stay fueled, and remember that pain is temporary, but bragging rights are forever.

Takeaway

Riding a century from zero isn’t about being fast, strong, or fancy; it’s about being stubbornly consistent. Add distance gradually, fuel properly, stay hydrated, get your fit right, and protect your ass (literally).

Do it right, and that 100 will change you. You’ll finish tired, salty, euphoric, and ready to sign up for the next one before your brain fully recovers.