I bicycle commuted in Seattle for about 20 years, starting around 1990. I did the STP for about 12 years. You are allowed to do it in one day or two days. And yes, even bicycle commuting you have to train for a long ride like that.
But here’s the funny part: My buddy and I did it as a two day ride for the first ten trips and then one year decided to do “most of it” on day one so that day two would be easier. By the time we got to the 170 mile mark we said, screw it, let’s just finish.
But here is the weird part: Every year as we pulled into Portland after two days and 200 miles in the saddle, we were exhausted and just wanted to hit the shower and sleep. But after one day and 200 miles we hopped off our bikes and said, “Where’s the beer garden?”
We did it in one day every year after that.
You may also notice that I lost all that weight AFTER bicycle commuting for years. Sure, I was in shape, but I ate a LOT of food. :)
That’s remarkable. It reminds us of what most people can do if they accept the situation and prepare for it.
I was reading a bio about an American politician in the 1880’s. Back then, it was not that unusual to walk hundreds of miles in a few days just to pay someone a visit.
I know of two guys like that right now, who could walk scores of miles and not be like a busted up Teddy Bear upon their return. They just do it, and at their own pace.
Hey, I’m in shape😁 Round is a shape😂