Staying Motivated: Keeping Up the Cycling Habit
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Because starting is one thing—sticking with it is another.
So, you got the bike. You rode a few times.
But now… it’s been a week (or three) since your last ride.
Totally normal. And also totally fixable.
Here’s how to stay motivated without guilt, pressure, or that all-or-nothing mindset we’re so done with.
1. Don’t Wait for the Perfect Time
Sometimes we trick ourselves into thinking we need:
– The perfect weather
– A full hour
– Zero distractions
Truth? Even a 10-minute ride around the block counts.
So if the big ride feels like too much, shrink it down.
Put your sneakers on. Roll around your neighborhood. That still builds the habit.
2. Make It Feel Good—Literally
If your last ride left you sore or uncomfortable, of course your brain’s gonna resist doing it again.
Fix the small stuff:
– Swap your seat for something cushier
👉 TONBUX Memory Foam Saddle – worth every penny
– Try padded shorts or liners
👉 BALEAF Padded Bike Shorts – comfy + budget-friendly
– Keep a water bottle on hand
👉 Polar Breakaway Insulated Bottle – cold water = happy rider
Small upgrades = big motivation boost.
3. Pick a “Why” That’s Yours
Forget about burning calories or “earning” anything.
Your reason might be:
– Peace and quiet before the chaos of the day
– Feeling stronger for your kids
– That moment when your playlist and the wind sync up perfectly
Write it down. Stick it to your mirror.
Remind yourself: this is for me.
4. Gamify It—Just a Little
Apps make habit-building feel kinda fun.
Try:
– Strava – Track your rides and see progress over time
– MapMyRide – Plan routes and set goals
– Habit Tracker – Keep streaks going with gentle reminders
You don’t need to become obsessed—just aware.
That “You rode 5 times this month!” notification? Chef’s kiss.
5. Treat Yourself After Rides
Positive reinforcement works. Even for grown-ups.
– Coffee after a morning ride
– A new pair of riding gloves after hitting 10 rides
👉 Giro Tessa Women’s Gloves – stylish + comfy
Riding becomes something you look forward to, not just check off.
6. Find Your Ride Style
Not everyone loves long trail rides or hilly climbs.
Some of us are:
– Weekend wanderers
– Errand riders
– Sunset cruisers
All valid. All awesome.
Try a few different routes, times, or playlists until you find your thing.
Once you like how it feels, you’ll want to come back for more.
7. Make It Social (Or Not)
Accountability works both ways.
If you’re extroverted, find a local women’s ride group or invite a friend to ride and chat.
If you’re an introvert (hi, welcome), try a solo podcast ride or ride just to clear your head.
Both count. Both work. Just honor what energizes you.
Final Thoughts
Motivation isn’t something you magically have. It’s something you build.
One short ride at a time.
One playlist. One podcast. One “That actually felt really good” moment.
You already started. That’s the hardest part.
Now?
Keep going—gently, consistently, joyfully.
