How to train for ultra-cycling: Fuelling, gear essentials and building peak durability with Meaghan Hackinen

Meaghan Hackinen has a habit of breaking ultra-distance cycling records. Recently, the Kelowna, B.C., rider set the women’s fastest known time for the iconic Tour Divide route. On this episode of the Canadian Cycling Magazine Podcast, Hackinen shares her journey to setting new records in ultra-cycling, training strategies, gear choices and the importance of sleep and sobriety in performance. Check out her insights into managing long-distance rides and preparing for unpredictable conditions.

Also, editors Matthew Pioro and Matt Hansen discuss cross country nationals and the Tour de l’Abitibi. There’s up-and-coming talent to look out for.

This episode is supported by Altitude Sports. [This collaboration is part of an advertising campaign managed by the agency Podpass for Altitude Sports.]

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Chapters

13:39 Meaghan Hackinen: Training for an ultra-distance ride like the Tour Divide

16:56 Getting started in ultra cycling: Tips for beginners

21:37 The importance of sleep in ultra-racing

31:11 What happens when you give your bike a name

37:07 Where a beginner should start with ultra-cycling gear

39:26 The impact of sobriety on performance

44:20 Safety tips for solo female travellers