BONK-ing
verb, noun
Bonking is a term used to describe a state of exhaustion in which a cyclist’s energy reserves are depleted.
Example usage: I was bonking by the second lap of the duathlon!
Most used in: Long distance cycling events, such as duathlons, where cyclists can become fatigued.
Most used by: Endurance cyclists who are pushing their limits.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 5/10
Also see: Depleted, Blowing up, Hitting the wall, Cooked,
What is Bonking?
Bonking is a term used by cyclists to describe a state of exhaustion and extreme fatigue. It is also known as hitting the wall, and usually occurs after intense or prolonged exercise. It is caused by the depletion of glycogen stores in the body, which is the primary source of fuel for muscle contraction during exercise.
It is most common in endurance sports such as cycling, running, swimming and triathlons, and can occur after a few hours of activity. Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty concentrating, and can last for several hours.
In a study of over 600 cyclists, it was found that over 70% of participants reported experiencing bonking at least once in the past year. This underscores the importance of having a good nutrition plan and taking regular breaks during prolonged exercise.
.The Origin of 'Bonking': A Brief History of Cycling Slang
Cycling slang has been around for a long time, with some terms going back decades. One of the oldest terms is 'bonking,' which has been used to describe a cyclist who has run out of energy since the late 1960s. The term originated in the UK, where it was used to describe a cyclist who had 'bonked' (or 'hit the wall') from exhaustion.
The exact origin of the word is not known, but it is believed to have been used in the Oxford and Cambridge cycling clubs in the late 1960s. It was then adopted by the wider cycling community and spread throughout the UK and beyond. By the 1980s, 'bonking' had become a widely used term among cyclists all over the world.
Today, 'bonking' is still an important part of cycling slang, and is used to describe a cyclist who has run out of energy and is unable to continue. The term is also used more generally to describe any situation where a cyclist has reached their limit, such as when they are struggling to climb a hill or keep up with their group.
