So, because our original cycling event was postponed from July to September and then subsequently cancelled, it felt like we needed to still do something. I have to admit I was a bit nervous about completing the 108 mile ride with over 15,000 ft climbs in one day, but, I had put more training in than usual, so should have been okay!
Our travel plans have been adjusted so many times and there is still a risk that the CV-19 rules in another country change overnight, so, could still affect things. My cycling buddy, Tony, has been at the computer for hours and on the phone asking for refunds, changing hotels and pushing for some flexibility when booking bikes. As we are flying to Geneva and we don’t want to go into France, Tony has been planning cycling routes and we agreed that, now the event is cancelled, we will cut the trip short by a couple of days to keep the peace at home!
BA would not let us change the return flight, they wanted us to cancel the entire flight plans and re-book for October, which is not going to work for us. We decided the best way forward was to book a single flight back from Geneva and put up with losing the extra flight, we still save money on hotels, bike hire, food and drink, so it all balances out.
Due to the delays in this event, it has made me realise that I am not really enjoying ‘having to’ go out and cycle. The fun has been taken away as there is a constant pressure to do long rides in preparation for a gruelling event. Tony and I discussed this and, like the Ironman era, major cycling events are over! My focus, after the trip away, is to build my body back to a healthy ‘beach body’ so I am happy with my shape and weight, but can still do a triathlon or go cycling if I want to. I want to look athletic instead of a like a skinny cyclist, which is how I feel.
I am looking forward to a new training regime, setting new challenges and getting involved with other activities – my motivation is on an upward curve again.
Have you ever done something that really motivates you initially, but after a while feels like a chore? I think that with physical activity it is really easy to slip into that cycle and end up taking it too far. My wife did the “Run 100 miles in May” challenge and she started off really motivated but, at the end of the month, was feeling pressured to go out running so the enjoyment was gone. The achievement was satisfying but the attachment to running had changed, which is where I am with cycling.
While I am away with Tony we will discuss our new plans and targets. We will set markers to check in on progress and we agree a way forward. By the time I get back from Geneva, I will be motivated again for the next phase of my physical journey. Cycling will still be on the agenda (I’ve got all the kit now!) but won’t be the main focus.
It’s good to review things, especially when you know things have shifted, when motivation is concerned. I can’t put up with things that don’t press the right buttons anymore, I suppose that happens when you get older – life is too short!
I hope you fill your week with motivating, exciting and fun things to do – you deserve it.