Preparation for the cycling sections of the trip has been done almost entirely in the gym, in the form of regular spinning classes. The 45 minute high intensity classes enabled me to increase my cycling fitness without having to venture out onto the manic roads of Dubai. Since returning home to Scotland, the cycle training has moved outdoors, however, practice has been limited due to more pressing matters of swim and kayak training. A few trips up the “training hill” were all I could muster, but having completed a cycling journey longer than this one, I at least have some experience to count on this time. My 2012 cycle across America was very much a learning experience, this time, I hope to put all that knowledge into practice, making the cycling sections much more manageable.

I will again be touring on my trusty Surly Long Haul Trucker bike, and with welcome clothing additions from Endura, Buff and others, I will be well kitted out this time. I will do separate posts regarding my swimming and kayaking preparations before the sections take place, but for now, I am heading north to begin my 900 mile cycle from John O’Groats to Dover.