For many cyclists, "it" is the main reason they ride: the feeling that your body and the bike have become one--that you could coast down that road or trail forever with no pain. Often described as "being in the zone," discovering the zen of cycling, like discovering the zen of any sport, is an elusive fitness goal.

Most cyclists agree there are no rules to follow or steps to take that can put you into this state. Sometimes it's just a matter of luck. "Some days you're 'on' and other days you're not," Anderson says. There are ways, however, to make yourself more open to the cycling "state of grace" when worries are wind-swept to the side of the road.

Be prepared. Stretching and making sure you're muscles are thoroughly loosened up before a ride, Anderson says, will make it easier. If you're focusing on a sore muscle or if you're muscles are too tight to pedal smoothly, he says, you'll never be able to relax into the ride. Also, make sure you are well hydrated before and during your ride.

Give yourself time. "It takes me at least two to three hours before my body really attunes itself to the bike and the ride," Anderson says. Though it won't take everyone that long, it does take time before your muscles get used to the activity of biking and allow you to "forget" about them. "The longer you're out there, the more you relax," he says. So be patient.

Focus on your breathing. Paying attention to the rhythm of your breath, Anderson says, is like saying a chant over and over; the repetition of it can put you in a hypnotic state.

Laugh. Chuckling to yourself while you're riding, Anderson says, is relaxing and makes it easier enter the zone.

Go solo. When you're riding with other people, you have to pay more attention to your positioning and may have to match an uncomfortable pace. Riding by yourself makes it easier to concentrate on your own body.

Don't think too hard. "I can only get into a good groove if I don't have a lot on my mind," Anderson says. If you're worrying about your job or relationship while you're riding, you'll only tense up. So stay focused on your ride.

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