Good day everyone, Happy Monday!

I used to believe that i was purely, 100% intrinsically motivated. only i could motivate me! Whilst that it is still largely true, age (or as some may say, widsom) have allowed me to climb down from my overly firm stance on this to realise that the power of externally motivating factors. These can be quite powerful tools when it comes to riding on the turbo: there’s no wind in your face, no beautiful views, no coffee stops…how do you keep yourself engaged? what do you do to remind yourself that the reason why you’re in the shed or a garage pedalling but not going anywhere is because you love cycling or because this keeps you physically and mentally healthy!

Recently, over on Instagram i shared a picture of my turbo trainer setup, including some of the mantra’s that I have on my whiteboard next to where I ride and race on zwift. here’s what I have to remind me why the hurt is worth it ;)

1. Smile

2. Earn It

3. Trust The Process

4. it should not be easy!

5. you feel worse when you give up. So don’t.

Bonus Ma`ntra: don’t be a bitch!

for me, I ride on the turbo because I’m time-poor. but i also genuinely do enjoy it. I love the hurt and get a strange pleasure from the burn in the legs and the lungs. I also enjoy knowing that when i can get back out on the road, that the turbo training adds to that experience.

so, whatever your reason for riding, whether it’s fast or slow, indoors or outdoors, whether you’re doing it for fun or to compete - take the motivation that comes your way in whichever form it may come. and don’t be embarrassed about what it is that motivates you!

Further Reading

I’ve read some great books over the years on motivation and habits. Why not check these out: