A MARATHON runner would wear comfortable shoes and apparel before taking on the gruelling distance.
Similarly, national cyclist Daniel Loy believes that participants of Feb 22's OCBC Cycle Singapore should ensure a "snug fit" between them and their bicycles.
The cyclists need to choose a bicycle of the right size, and adjust the height and position of its saddle for an injury-free ride during the Republic's inaugural mass-cycling event.
The 26-year-old says: "Bear in mind that you are going to cycle either 20km, 40km or 50km. Your legs will be doing plenty of work over an extended period of time."
To minimise muscle strain, a cyclist must be able to stretch his legs comfortably - they should be almost perpendicular to the ground when fully extended - while pedalling his bicycle.
"This setup will ensure that you do not injure your knees, and it will help you cycle comfortably for a long time," says Loy.
It is also important to start training for long-distance cycling at least one month before the actual event.
Loy suggests starting with a 10km ride at a leisurely pace, before gradually increasing the distance in increments of 5km. Alternatively, the cyclist could attempt to finish the same distance at a faster speed.
He also warns participants who are taking part in such mass events for the first time to be careful, as they would be -cycling with at least 100 cyclists' around them, "each trying to outdo one another".
"Be prepared for unexpected crashes," he says.
He recommends training with a group of friends, as well as cycling along the competition routes to become familiar with the road conditions.
The Eastern Park Connectors - cycling lanes that link various parks such as East Coast Park and Pasir Ris Park - are ideal for such training.
Unlike marathon runners, however, long-distance cyclists do not need to go on a special diet. Loy explains: "Marathon runners usually load up on carbohydrates a few days before a race.
"I find this unnecessary for cycling.
Just have a normal diet, and try not to drink too much as it may leave you too bloated to cycle comfortably."
He will be taking part in two of the competitions at OCBC Cycle Singapore: the 50km race in the morning, and the criterium race in the afternoon.
He offers one parting tip to cyclists: "Apply the front brakes first before the rear brakes. You'd be less likely to skid then."
