Cycling Challenges: Motivating Yourself with Monthly Goals
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Because a little challenge can turn your ride into something way more exciting.
Let’s be real for a second.
Some days, it’s hard to stay motivated—especially when fitness feels repetitive.
But here’s a secret: giving yourself mini monthly cycling goals can totally reignite your love for riding.
You don’t need to train for a race or hit pro-level mileage.
You just need a goal that feels fun… and maybe a tiny bit stretchy (in a good way).
Why Monthly Cycling Challenges Work
- They’re short enough to commit to
- They keep you focused
- They give you that sweet feeling of accomplishment
- They help you build habits—without pressure
Bonus: You can track your wins and actually see your progress. (So satisfying.)
10 Monthly Cycling Challenges to Try
Pick one. Or mix and match.
Do them solo, with a friend, or rope in your partner for some friendly competition.
1. Ride Every Other Day Challenge
Great for building consistency.
Even short 10–15 minute rides count!
2. Mileage Goal Month
Choose a goal like 50, 75, or 100 miles for the month.
Apps like Strava or MapMyRide can help you track.
3. Explore 4 New Trails
Each week, try a new trail, route, or neighborhood path.
Add adventure to your usual routine.
4. Hill Week Challenge
Pick a week to focus on hills (or bridges if you live somewhere flat).
Build leg strength + confidence.
5. Sunrise Ride Streak
Challenge yourself to ride at sunrise 3x a week.
It’s peaceful, motivating—and yes, coffee tastes even better after.
6. Time Challenge
Track total time on the bike this month.
Can you hit 300 minutes? 500?
7. Ride with a Friend Once a Week
Even if it’s virtual or side-by-side on stationary bikes.
Accountability + connection = magic.
8. Speed Burst Intervals Challenge
Once a week, add 30-second fast pedaling bursts during your ride.
It’s great cardio and builds strength, too.
9. No-Excuses Week
Ride every day for 7 days—even just around the block.
Prove to yourself that you can show up no matter what.
10. Gratitude Ride Series
Each ride, reflect on one thing you’re grateful for.
It turns your ride into moving mindfulness.
Tools to Help You Stick With It
- Goal-setting apps: Strides, Habit Tracker
- Fitness watches: Try the Garmin Forerunner 55 or Apple Watch SE for tracking rides and goals
- Handlebar phone mounts: Stay safe while tracking—check out this Roam Universal Phone Mount
Reward Yourself (Seriously)
Set a goal.
Hit it.
Celebrate.
A few reward ideas:
- A new bike seat cover like this memory foam one
- That cute cycling jersey you’ve been eyeing
- A guilt-free post-ride smoothie run
You earned it.
Final Thoughts
Fitness shouldn’t feel like a grind.
Monthly cycling challenges give you bite-sized wins, spark motivation, and keep things feeling fresh.
So pick one.
Write it down.
And ride it out.
Your future self will be so proud.
