Finding time to ride your bike can feel like trying to squeeze an extra hour into a 24-hour day.
Between work, family commitments, and that growing pile of laundry giving you the evil eye, getting on the bike often takes a back seat.
But here’s the thing: with a bit of creative thinking and some clever planning, you’d be surprised how much riding time you can actually find.
1. Make It a Priority (ACTUALLY DO THIS!)
Your cycling time deserves the same respect as any other important appointment.
Block out specific times in your calendar and treat them as non-negotiable as that weekly team meeting.
Sorry, Instagram scroll session, you’ll have to wait.
2. Turn Your Commute Into Your Workout
Why sit in traffic when you could be pedaling? Transform your daily commute into valuable bike time.
Even if it’s just twice a week, that’s two more rides than you’d have otherwise. Plus, arriving at work on an endorphin high beats arriving stressed from traffic any day.
3. Embrace the Odd Hours
Early mornings and late evenings are your secret weapons. The roads are quieter, the air is crisp, and there’s something oddly satisfying about knowing you’ve knocked out a ride while others are still hitting the snooze button.
Just remember to invest in good lights – being visible is non-negotiable.
4. Go Indoor When Outdoor Isn’t an Option
Indoor training isn’t just for rainy days anymore. A smart trainer can turn a 45-minute window into a highly effective workout.
You can even catch up on your favorite shows while you’re at it. Multitasking at its finest!
5. Master the Pre-Ride Prep
Nothing kills motivation like spending 20 minutes looking for your left cycling shoe. Get your gear ready the night before – think of it as setting yourself up for success. Check those tires, charge those lights, and lay out your kit. Future you will be grateful.
I found James Clear’s Atomic Habits book REALLY useful for this mindset. It doesn’t just work for cycling planning, it’s good for your life in general
6. Make It a Social Thing
Cycling doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor. Plan family rides, meet up with friends, or join a local cycling group. When cycling becomes part of your social life, it’s easier to prioritize. Plus, it’s harder to bail when someone else is counting on you showing up.
7. Start From Your Doorstep
Skip the car ride to the trailhead and start right from home.
Those extra miles getting to your favorite route? They count too!
This approach saves time and adds bonus miles to your ride.
8. Think Long Term
Sometimes finding more time to ride means making bigger life changes.
Could you work from home occasionally?
Move closer to good riding routes?
These aren’t decisions to make lightly, but they could transform your riding opportunities.
9. Book a Cycling Day Off
Every now and then, treat yourself to a dedicated cycling day. Take a day off work specifically for riding. It’s like a mini-vacation for you and your bike, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
Wrapping Up – Time To Start Riding!
Finding time to ride isn’t about having time – it’s about making time. With these strategies, you can start fitting in more rides without turning your life upside down.
Remember, even a short ride is better than no ride at all. Now, stop reading and go prep your bike for tomorrow’s ride!
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