Am I A Cyclist Now?
Let's chat a bit about why I am now cycling and not really running, and by not 'really' running I mean not running, currently. You will learn a lot more from this article than you think.
This article has an important message, I promise.
But first, here is a picture of me and my bicycle.
Yes, I cycle now.
But I am very polite.
I do try and wave to everyone, but sometimes I need both hands on the handle bars because my balance is sh!t.
“Ok Mandy, but what is the point of this article?”
You see here is the thing…
After posting the pictures online.
I got a number of dm’s from people saying:
“But why?”
Basically meaning…
Why are you cycling when you are a runner?
My short answer: ‘But why NOT”
Anyone that knows me, knows that I like being active and I like trying different things.
And cycling is a great form of cardio, getting outside, exercise, helps with my mental well-being and it can add to keeping me fit.
The long answer:
I am cycling, because I can’t run right now.
The even longer answer is:
I am focusing on what is in my control, and not letting what is NOT in my control get me down or stop me from exercising.
You see, here is another thing:
Most people panic and end up quitting something when there is one thing out of their control.
Example:
You are going to eat out.
The meal is not in your control.
Immediately you panic.
You think the day is ruined.
And you are like “well, if I can’t control one meal, what is the point of doing anything for the rest of the day”
But my question is:
What is in your control?
Can’t get to the gym today?
Ok, but can you smash your step goals? Can you go for a quick walk? Can you still drink some water? Can you still track your calories?
Can’t control your meal choices at Bob’s barbeque?
Ok, but can you control the rest of the days meals? Can you control your portion sizes of the meal at the bbq?
Can’t run because of injury?
Ok, but is there anything else that you can do? Can you walk? Can you cycle? Can you do upper body work outs?
So yes, I can’t run at the moment due to injury and pain caused by running.
Does that mean I am just going to feel sorry for myself and stop doing all exercise?
No!
I am going to find what I CAN do, and do that.
I am NOT going to fixate on what I CAN’T do.
No matter what you are tackling…
The things in your control are far more than the things out of your control.
You just have to be willing to focus on what you can control, and not let what you can’t control get in the way of you moving forward.
I hate to be the one to say this, but I am going to say it anyway - Too many people give up on their goals at the first site of a minor inconvenience.
Much Love
Mandy