Let’s be honest with each other. The last two months have been... moist.

Between the relentless storms, the "horizontal hosepipe" weather, and the freezing temperatures, a lot of us have spent more time looking at our bikes than actually riding them. And let's be real - while the bike has been resting in the shed, we’ve been "resting" on the sofa with a tin of Quality Street.

But the sun is (allegedly) coming back. The trails are draining (slowly). It is time to wake up.

However, if your legs are currently feeling more "marshmallow" than "machine", don't panic. Here is our guide to easing your body back into the saddle without breaking yourself in the first hour.

1. The Fuel Swap (Sad, but necessary)

Over winter, "fuel" usually means mince pies, gravy, and that extra pint of stout. While delicious, these are not high-octane rocket fuel for climbing the Beacon.

It’s time for the switch:

• Less: Cake as a meal replacement.
• More: Protein and actual vegetables.
• The Compromise: Coffee is still a mandatory food group. In fact, you might need more of it to get moving.

2. The "Rust Remover" Rides

Your brain remembers how to ride fast. Your lungs do not.

The biggest mistake we see in February is the "Glory Run". You head out on the first nice day, smash it up the Wyche Cutting at your summer pace, and then spend the next three days walking like John Wayne.

The Fix: Zone 2 is your friend. Keep the first few rides conversational. If you can’t gossip about the weather while riding, you are going too hard. Rebuild the engine before you try to fire up the afterburners.

3. Stretching (Yes, actually do it)

After months of curling up on the sofa, your hamstrings are probably tighter than a rusty chain.

If you jump straight back into a 3-hour epic, your lower back is going to send you a very painful letter of resignation. Spend 10 minutes stretching the glutes, quads, and back before you head out. You will thank us at the top of the climb.

4. Check Your Kit (And Yourself)

Before you head out, try your kit on. Indoors.

Lycra has a cruel habit of shrinking over winter (it’s definitely the fabric, not the cheese). Make sure everything still fits comfortably so you aren't discovering a circulation-cutting seam five miles from home.

The Bottom Line

Don’t beat yourself up if you aren't hitting PRs straight away. The fitness will come back faster than you think. The most important thing is just turning the pedals again.

See you out there (we’ll be the ones at the back, puffing slightly).