4 Winter Tips to get Audaxity Ready in 2026
The 2026 Audaxity ride may still be many months away, but now is the perfect time to start preparing, especially if you are newer to cycling. Winter exercise can help you build strength, confidence, and healthy habits that will make riding feel easier and more enjoyable this summer.
We spoke with Audaxity Ride Ambassador Heidi Curtes, who has more than 25 years of cycling experience, to learn how you can stay active in the Wisconsin Winter:
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Don’t Stop Moving
Although it may be hard to stay motivated in the winter, it doesn’t mean you should stop moving. Heidi says to consider strength training at your local gym, or even better, ask a friend to join you for accountability and fun!
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Try Yoga or Pilates if Exercise Feels Overwhelming
If going to a gym feels intimidating to you, yoga or pilates can be a great alternative. Both focus on breathing, flexibility, core strength, and stress relief in a calmer, quieter environment. You can attend classes in-person or follow easy at-home videos if public spaces feel like too much.
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Get Outside for Fresh Air and Vitamin D
Even in the Milwaukee winter weather, Heidi insists on getting some time outdoors. Start small, like taking your dog for a 20-minute walk around the block or offer to shovel your neighbor’s driveway. Feeling adventurous? Wisconsin has already received plenty of snow this winter, so it’s a great time to try a new sport like alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, hockey, or snow shoeing.
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Ride with a Fat Bike
If you don’t want to wait until spring to get back on the bike, consider trying a fat bike. The wide tires provide better traction and stability on snow and ice, making winter riding more accessible. Heidi encourages all riders to stay on bike paths or trails as cars are not used to seeing bikes on the side of the road this time of year. Joining a local cycling club or team can also help you stay motivated and connected through the off-season.
Winter training doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. Small, consistent efforts now can make a big difference when Audaxity ride day arrives next summer.
Stay in the loop and subscribe to the Audaxity newsletter for ride updates as we gear up for the 2026 Audaxity ride: https://audaxity.org/newsletter/
