---
title: "The man with the hammer, running out of energy on a long ride"
language: en
topics: ["Amsterdam", "Hegelsom", "bike", "data", "health", "heart", "lifestyle", "nature"]
full_article_url: https://willem.com/en/2023-04-20_tips-for-long-distance-cycling/
---
# The man with the hammer, running out of energy on a long ride

*A small snack and a few minutes on a bench fix more than you think.*

> The man with the hammer is the moment on a long ride when you suddenly feel wasted, out of energy and motivation. Eat a small snack, rest a few minutes on a bench, and you can continue.

If your ride is long enough, chances are you will meet him, and you should not be afraid of that. Carry some small snacks so you have something to eat during a short break; just a few minutes on a bench can make a world of difference. With more experience you learn to feel it coming and plan for it before it hits.
Do not feel ashamed about stepping off the bike, it is the only way to keep going. The reward comes later: completing a long ride gives a raw, primal feeling of victory that can last for days.
I use this approach every year while training for the Fietselfstedentocht, including a 204 km training ride from Hegelsom to Amsterdam on a fixed gear bike.