BONK-ED
Verb
To become suddenly and completely exhausted while cycling
Example usage: I bonked after the third lap of the race.
Most used in: Cycling circles across Europe and North America.
Most used by: Endurance cyclists and competitive racers.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
Also see: Blown, Hit the Wall, Crashed, Cooked,
What Does It Mean to Get 'Bonked' in Cycling?
Bonking, also known as 'hitting the wall,' is a term used in cycling to describe a sudden and dramatic decrease in energy levels due to depletion of glycogen stores. This can result in a decrease in performance, slower speeds, and even complete exhaustion. It's a common occurrence, with up to 80% of cyclists experiencing it during endurance races or long rides.
Bonking is caused by the depletion of glycogen stores in the body. Glycogen is a type of sugar stored in the liver and muscles that acts as a fuel source for the body during intense and prolonged exercise. When cyclists don't properly fuel their body with carbohydrates during exercise, their glycogen stores can become depleted, leading to a sudden decrease in energy levels.
Bonking is a serious matter for cyclists, as it can lead to decreased performance, slower speeds, and even complete exhaustion. To prevent bonking, it's important for cyclists to fuel their body properly with carbohydrates before and during exercise. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding processed foods can also help to ensure that glycogen stores are adequately replenished.
Bonking can be a frustrating experience for cyclists, but it can be avoided with proper nutrition and hydration. With a balanced diet and adequate fueling during exercise, cyclists can prevent bonking and maintain their performance during long rides.
The Origin of the Term 'Bonked' in Cycling
The term 'bonk' or 'bonked' is a slang term used in cycling circles to describe a sudden and extreme fatigue. It is believed that the term originated in the United States in the 1980s, where it was used to describe a cyclist who had run out of energy.
The term is thought to have come from the phrase 'hitting the wall', which was used to describe the sudden exhaustion felt by marathon runners. It is also believed that the term is derived from the German word 'bonken', which means 'to punch'.
The term 'bonk' or 'bonked' is now widely used by cyclists around the world and is often used to describe a cyclist who is exhausted and unable to continue riding. It is a term that is used to describe a feeling of extreme fatigue and is usually accompanied by feelings of dizziness and disorientation.
