Training for long-distance cycling with type 1 diabetes

Long-distance cycling with diabetes

Training for a long-distance cycling event is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, especially when managing type 1 diabetes. My name is Heidi, and as a Medtronic employee who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 30 years, I understand the unique hurdles we face. 

In December 2024, I participated in the Breakthrough T1D™ Ride in Amelia Island, FL — my sixth century ride (100 miles)! For my fellow T1Ds considering this exciting and arduous journey, let me share my story and training regimen.

My diabetes journey

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at six years old. I remember my parents diving in and learning every aspect of type 1 and how to manage it.  My parents built the foundation of healthy living for me, so I attribute my health today to them.

The first four years of my diabetes journey were on multiple daily injections (MDI). But then I started on insulin pump therapy using a Medtronic pump and I never looked back! Now I’m on the latest insulin pump and I love it!

About the Breakthrough T1D™ Ride

The Breakthrough T1D™ Ride is a charitable cycling event dedicated to raising funds and awareness for type 1 diabetes research and support. 

My first ride with the Medtronic team was in 2019, and it ignited a passion for cycling. I wanted to push my limits and support an organization that aims to make living with type 1 diabetes easier and to accelerate advancements in technology and research. Participating in this ride not only allowed me to challenge myself physically but also to contribute to a cause that is close to my heart.
 

Cycling for beginners

Before starting any training regimen, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare team. Your healthcare team can provide valuable insights into how to adjust your insulin and medication, monitor your blood sugar levels, and manage your diet during training.

The next thing to do is create a training schedule. Begin by setting realistic goals and gradually increasing your mileage to build endurance and strength progressively.

Start with shorter rides and gradually increase the distance and intensity. This approach can help avoid burnout and injury while ensuring adequate preparation for a long-distance ride. Consistency was key!
 

My training regimen

As an avid cyclist (and resident Western New Yorker), I took advantage of the summer months to train outdoors, starting in April or May and continuing until the weather turned cold. My routine included early morning 15–20-mile rides before work, aiming for 100+ miles per week during the summer, with longer rides on weekends. When outdoor cycling was no longer feasible, I transitioned to indoor training on my Peloton bike.

Diabetes management during long-distance rides

High-intensity exercise can greatly impact sugar levels, leading to risks of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Managing these fluctuations is critical for a safe and successful ride. An automated insulin delivery system can help keep sugar levels under control during physical activity. 

I also carry hypo treatments and take carbs throughout my rides to maintain my energy and sugar levels.
 

My MiniMed™ 780G system experience

Despite the challenge of managing sugar levels, I found that the MiniMed™ 780G system provided me with the confidence to participate in long-distance cycling events. It allowed me to focus on my training and enjoy the ride without constantly worrying about my glucose levels.† 

I typically set Temp Target during activity and adjust my glucose targets as needed. While I still experience some fluctuations, the MiniMed™ 780G system has made these less frequent and simpler to manage. 

Tip: You can find more information about Temp Target in your user guide and on the support website.
 

Happy cycling!

Training for a long-distance cycling event with type 1 diabetes requires careful planning and management, but it is entirely achievable. Remember to consult your healthcare team, create a structured training plan, and consider the MiniMed™ 780G system to make diabetes management easier. Stay motivated and remind yourself of the incredible achievements you can accomplish. Happy cycling!

Guest author: Heidi Sylvester, RN, CDCES, Medtronic employee

Footnotes
† Refers to SmartGuard™ feature. Individual results may vary.

Important safety information: MiniMed™ 780G system with SmartGuard™ technology with Guardian™ 4 sensor

The MiniMed™ 780G system is intended for continuous delivery of basal insulin at selectable rates, and the administration of insulin boluses at selectable amounts for the management of type 1 diabetes mellitus in persons seven years of age and older requiring insulin as well as for the continuous monitoring and trending of glucose levels in the fluid under the skin. The MiniMed™ 780G system includes SmartGuard™ technology, which can be programmed to automatically adjust insulin delivery based on the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor glucose values and can suspend delivery of insulin when the sensor glucose (SG) value falls below or is predicted to fall below predefined threshold values.

The Medtronic MiniMed™ 780G system consists of the following devices: MiniMed™ 780G insulin pump, the Guardian™ 4 transmitter, the Guardian™ 4 sensor, One-press serter, the Accu-Chek™ Guide Link blood glucose meter, and the Accu-Chek™ Guide test strips. The system requires a prescription from a healthcare professional.

The Guardian™ 4 sensor is intended for use with the MiniMed™ 780G system and the Guardian 4 transmitter to monitor glucose levels for the management of diabetes. The sensor is intended for single use and requires a prescription. The Guardian™ 4 sensor is indicated for up to seven days of continuous use.

The Guardian™ 4 sensor is not intended to be used directly to make therapy adjustments while the MiniMed™ 780G is operating in manual mode. All therapy adjustments in manual mode should be based on measurements obtained using a blood glucose meter and not on values provided by the Guardian™ 4 sensor. The Guardian™ 4 sensor has been studied and is approved for use in patients ages 7 years and older and in the arm insertion site only. Do not use the Guardian™ 4 sensor in the abdomen or other body sites including the buttocks, due to unknown or different performance that could result in hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
 

WARNING: Do not use the MiniMed™ 780G system until appropriate training has been received from a healthcare professional. Training is essential to ensure the safe use of the MiniMed™ 780G system.
 

WARNING: Do not use SG values to make treatment decisions, including delivering a bolus, while the pump is in Manual Mode. When the SmartGuard™ feature is active and you are no longer in Manual Mode, the pump uses an SG value, when available, to calculate a bolus amount. However, if your symptoms do not match the SG value, use a BG meter to confirm the SG value. Failure to confirm glucose levels when your symptoms do not match the SG value can result in the infusion of too much or too little insulin, which may cause hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
 

Pump therapy is not recommended for people whose vision or hearing does not allow for the recognition of pump signals, alerts, or alarms. The safety of the MiniMed™ 780G system has not been studied in pregnant women, persons with type 2 diabetes, or in persons using other anti-hyperglycemic therapies that do not include insulin. For complete details of the system, including product and important safety information such as indications, contraindications, warnings and precautions associated with system and its components, please consult https://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/important-safety-information#minimed-… and the appropriate user guide at https://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/download-library