Festive 500: Cover 500 kilometres between the years with a plan

The Festive 500 is a unique cycling challenge that takes place over the last eight days of the year. From Christmas Eve to New Year's Eve, cyclists worldwide are called upon to cover a total of 500 kilometres on their bikes. Since the coronavirus pandemic, indoor kilometres also count. The Festive 500 was organised for the first time in 2010. initiated by the British cycle clothing manufacturer "Rapha"has developed into a worldwide tradition, which is taking place for the 15th time this year

The goal - 500 kilometres in eight days - may initially seem feasible for ambitious cyclists, but it is a challenge that requires both physical fitness and mental stamina. In addition, your health must also play its part. Oh yes, time also plays a role. Anyone who, like me this year, is in three different places from Christmas to New Year's Eve to visit different parts of the family will find it difficult to find the time to cycle 500 kilometres.

Example timetable: Festive 500 2023

Some long-distance enthusiasts drive 500 kilometres at a stretch year in, year out. However, this is by no means sensible, let alone feasible, for everyone. An effective timetable for the Festive 500 could look like this: you divide up the kilometres so that you cover more kilometres at the beginning and then reduce the distance towards the end when exhaustion sets in.

Depending on the time available, fitness level, weather and temperature, you can split up the challenge.z

• 8 days: Drive every day; on average it must be 65 per day; build in variations and prefer to drive one day more and the next less
• 7 days: On average 70 to 75 kilometres per day; one break day
• 5 days: 100 kilometres per day; sporty, but easy to plan
• 4 days: 125 kilometres per day; weather and motivation must be right
• 1 day: 500 kilometres at a stretch; easier with a group

Not everyone has time off between the years. If you have to work, you could cycle to work - and back - and extend your commute. That way, you can collect a few kilometres. Perhaps a visit to the family on 24 December can also be done by bike? And the return journey too? Bikepacking bags with a change of clothes strapped to the bike and you're ready to go. The following days you have to go to work, so the journey to work will of course be done by bike - and possibly a little longer. Shortly before the end there is a day off. This takes the pressure off, as you can make up the kilometres if in doubt. The crowning glory comes at the end with a Gran Fondo on New Year's Eve.

• 24.12. 90 km to family, friends, ...
• 25.12. 40 km between lunch and coffee - maybe others are taking a nap?
• 26.12. 90 km back home again
• 27.12. 20 in the morning, 40 in the evening
• 28.12. in the morning 20, in the evening 30
• 29.12. in the morning 20, in the evening 50
• Planning a day off on 30.12. can take the pressure off, if in doubt you can make up the kilometres here
• 31.12. 100 kilometres, what a way to end the year

Please note: Our timetable suggestions are just that: suggestions. You can and should adapt the plan to your individual needs and circumstances. Also pay attention to your physical condition, the completion of the Festive 500 does not have to be rushed. You may catch a cold or other circumstances may force you to take more breaks. Listen to your body and stop if you can't. There will be another opportunity next year. In general, it is important that you take enough time to recover and get enough sleep. And don't forget to eat.

Festive 500 - not always useful

Our former editorial colleague Stefan Loibl is always happy to take up the challenge. A report on his experiences at the Festive 500. And me? I'm addressing all those who are snivelling because they can't make it this year. My cycling year was ... difficult ... One injury followed another and my Strava review of the year is sadder than ever. At first I thought I could at least do the Festive 500 this year. But then I had to face reality. My last 100 kilometres? A year ago. Now I regularly ride 30 kilometre gravel laps. I would probably risk the next injury. So I decided not to take on this end-of-year challenge.

How do you even manage it? Here are some tips:

1. Training: Prepare yourself physically. A few weeks before Christmas, longer bike rides can help prepare your body for the upcoming challenge.
2. Bike checkWipe your chain dry after every ride and don't forget to wax or oil it. Make sure that your light is charged.
3. Clothing: Dress warmly. Softshell suits, Winter shoesgloves and a Warm helmet cap protect you from cooling down. Combined with the right socks, a base layer, a tube scarf and goggles, you're all set for cycling in winter.
4. Food and drinkEat enough and don't forget to drink.
5. Calm & energyPlan rest breaks and sufficient sleep. Good regeneration phases are crucial to gather the necessary energy for the next stages.
6. RoutePlan your routes carefully and, above all, realistically. Also consider the weather conditions. If it's really uncomfortable: the Festive 500 can also be ridden indoors since the corona pandemic.
7. Motivation: What motivates you? Have motivational sayings ready and don't forget: the Festive 500 is a demanding challenge, but it should also be fun!

With the right preparation, sensible and realistic planning and a large portion of motivation, the Festive 500 is an exciting and achievable challenge that offers you an active end to the year and leaves you with a good feeling for the new year. You can do it - so get on your bike and let's go! The 500 kilometres are waiting for you!