Staying motivated in winter

The winter months can put a damper on your bike rides. The evenings get darker sooner, the weather is colder, and finding the motivation to brave the elements can be hard for even the most avid of cyclists.

Luckily there are a few things you can incorporate in your winter ride ritual that will help you beat the winter blues.

Shake things ups

Riding the same route can become monotonous and uninspiring even in the best of weather. Overtime the same routes become familiar, each physical or mental challenge of the route feels less demanding of your attention, and the ride loses its excitement. Exploring new routes and riding along new scenery can help reenergize you, with new obstacles and new sights to engage your mind.

Prep the night before

Having everything you need for your ride ready the night before can help remove obstacles or procrastination. Setting your intentions of going out for a ride and taking steps towards making that happen will help you follow through with your cycle plans. Having your tyres pumped up and ready, mudguards attached, lights and reflective gear set and your kit laid out removes friction so you can hit the road or trails right away.

Set new goals

Setting new and specific goals can help keep you motivated with something to work towards. Having a goal and sticking to it will help keep you accountable to your plan and each milestone you hit will give you motivation to tackle the next. Making goals specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely (SMART goals) will make them ones you are more likely to reach and will have a positive impact on your motivation rather than vague wishes.

Ride with a friend

Planning rides with a friend or joining new cycling groups can help keep you accountable. When you know you have someone else counting on you to show up, you’re more likely to stick to your plans even when motivation is low. Riding with someone else not only gives you company on your rides but it also gives you a chance to socialise, share experiences and have quality time together. Over time, this sense of community and support can make cycling feel less like a solo effort and more like a shared activity you look forward to even in the winter weather.

Winter riding is as much about mindset as it is about miles. By planning ahead, mixing up your routes and leaning on the support of others, you can keep your wheels turning all season long. Every winter ride is an investment in a stronger, more confident you come spring.