Take it slowly. If you're not in tip-top shape, it's important to build up your ability over time -- do not go out and ride all day if unaccustomed to riding long distances. You will only invite injury and exhaustion.

Be consistent. Even if you're starting with very short rides, it's important to do them on a regular basis, several days a week. If you can't get out to ride, try indoor spinning classes, a great simulation of cycling.

Rest. Do not overdo it -- giving your body sufficient time to rest is as important as building strength and endurance.

Vary your rides. You'll be better off if you've trained to tackle both distance and hills. Alternate between shorter rides with more hill climbing and longer rides on flatter terrain, and some that combine both hills and distance.

Pace. The good news -- it does not matter! Go at your own pace and don't worry about anyone else's speed.

Cross Train. Anything that works on building your strength and/or aerobic endurance is going to help. Run, walk, swim, take an aerobics class, lift weights, do yoga.

Do your time on the bike. Cross training is great, but do not short-change yourself on time in the saddle. You have some long days ahead of you, and it's important to get used to sitting on your bike seat for hours at a time.

Eat. Everyone is different, but you will probably need to take in a lot more calories during long rides. Stop and snack frequently while riding to make sure that your body gets a consistent supply of fuel. And don't forget to eat before you ride. Many say what you eat now will be what your body uses in 1.5 - 2 hours from when you eat. Food is just as important as liquids to your body, even when the weather gets hot, so don't neglect this important element of your training. Your training period is a great time to reassess your eating habits.

Good snacks include protein bars, pretzels, bagels, fruit (fresh and dried), nuts, and trail mix. Items that are complex carbohydrates will provide for a sustained energy source. Some people will graze all day long while they ride to keep a consistent intake of calories and carbohydrates. For instance, they may eat half of their sandwich for lunch and finish the remaining half at the next rest stop.

Read more about nutrition.

Drink. Water, sports drink, water, sports drink, water, sports drink, and more water. Even if you don't feel like you're sweating, you're always losing fluids while riding, and if you don't replace them you risk dehydration, which can lead to very serious problems. It is important to alternate servings of water with servings of electrolyte replacement drink during strenuous exercise. Again, experiment with which electrolyte replacement drink works best for you. Some people prefer the drinks watered down from full strength, some like mixing the powdered versions with water.

If you are not urinating much while you ride, you are not taking in enough liquids. You might consider purchasing a "Camelbak" or similar hydration system, which allows you to drink without having to reach down for your water bottle, making it more likely that you will drink more often. Your water bottles can serve as your reserve supply.

Read more about proper hydration.

Warm up. Warm up your muscles before you start your ride. This could be easy spinning on your bike, walking, etc.

Stretch. Before, during, and after each ride. If you keep your muscles warmed-up and flexible, you are much less likely to feel sore the next day.

Read more about stretching.

Proper Equipment. Get your bike properly fitted -- this can be done at any good bike shop. Improper bike fit is one of the leading causes of injury among cyclists, and it's an easy thing to fix. You also might want to invest in some proper cycling gear -- padded shorts, bike shoes with stiff sole, jerseys that wick away perspiration. it's not essential, but can help with a more comfortable, efficient ride.

Read more about proper bike fit.

Hang in there. It is likely that you will get distracted, tired, or frustrated. You'll probably experience all three, maybe all at the same time. It will pass - really. Remember that this happens to everyone at some point, and re-commit to your training program by reminding yourself why you're doing this. Call your Participant Representative or one of your cycling friends if you encounter any problems.