Discover the Netherlands on Two Wheels
How I Overcame COVID and Crushed a 204 km Cycling Challenge!
Apr. 20, 2023 - Willem L. Middelkoop
In preparation for this year’s Fietselfstedentocht (236KM), I took my bike and set out for an adventurous ride through half of the Netherlands. It was my first long distance ride after being infected with COVID. If you're considering a long-distance ride yourself, be sure to read along to discover invaluable tips and tricks from my experience.
Continue reading![Last year's Fietselfstedentocht was an epic ride with my brother - a gruesome edition with plenty of storm and rain!](/blog/2023-04-20_tips-for-long-distance-cycling/images/i_00_Last-year-s-Fietselfstedentocht-was-an-epic-ride-with-my-brother-a-gruesome-edition-with-plenty-of-s_500px.jpg)
![Look who's WHOOP's #1 of The Netherlands in terms of strain! Euphoria!](/blog/2023-04-20_tips-for-long-distance-cycling/images/i_19_Look-who-s-WHOOP-s-1-of-The-Netherlands-in-terms-of-strain-Euphoria_500px.jpg)
![My heart rate during the 10 hour ride from Amsterdam to Hegelsom: note how I kept my heart rate relatively low during the first few hours!](/blog/2023-04-20_tips-for-long-distance-cycling/images/i_07_My-heart-rate-during-the-10-hour-ride-from-Amsterdam-to-Hegelsom-note-how-I-kept-my-heart-rate-relat_500px.jpg)
![Refueling at a tank station](/blog/2023-04-20_tips-for-long-distance-cycling/images/i_12_Refueling-at-a-tank-station_500px.jpg)
![Maasduinen National Park in Limburg](/blog/2023-04-20_tips-for-long-distance-cycling/images/i_02_Maasduinen-National-Park-in-Limburg_500px.jpg)
![This felt as a fitting place for a little drink stop... Willemsplein in Arnhem!](/blog/2023-04-20_tips-for-long-distance-cycling/images/i_13_This-felt-as-a-fitting-place-for-a-little-drink-stop-Willemsplein-in-Arnhem_500px.jpg)