Enjoy the Competition. Enjoy Your Ride

28
Jul
2014

Before moving to the Caribbean, one thought that ran through my mind was the idea of possibly learning a new sport or activity that would suit me perfectly.  I was of the belief that maybe there was a sport out there that would come naturally to me.  A sport that wasn’t even offered in North America.

Because of my move to St. Kitts in 2002, I did discover a sport that has become a huge part of my life.  However, it wasn’t a sport unique to the Caribbean.  This is a region where Cricket and Soccer (called Football here) are extremely popular National sports.  But it was on St. Kitts that I discovered Cycling…..well, Road Cycling.

DSC_0036-1024x680-750x498

It may not have been one of the most popular sports on the island, but there was a nice sized following.  Becoming a cyclist is much more likely in a place like Canada or the United States, but I don’t know if I would have developed the love I have for this sport if it wasn’t for me being here.

Through all my worldly moves since St. Kitts, I have continued loving the bike and have done things on it that I previously wouldn’t have thought possible.  I’ve biked hills that I didn’t think were bikable.  I have went distances much, much further than what I used to think was far.  I’ve discovered a place where I can get away from my thoughts and simply be in the moment…..many times feeling like I’m in a state of meditation.  Best of all, I’ve surrounded myself with an amazing community of cyclists worldwide.

Cycling Pedaling

To me this sport is all about enjoyment and competing against myself.  Although I’ve competed a few times, I wouldn’t call myself a competitive cyclist in the common sense of the word.  I might not be competing, but every time I’m on the bike I am training as if I am.  I do this sport for me and not so I can compare myself against others.

I somehow feel that turning this love for the bike into competitive thoughts would alter my admiration for the sport.  It’s about me and my bike, and the joy I find in ripping up the road.  One of the appeals to me is the solitude….competing with others would change many of the things I love about it.

Competition is a part of life, but we must decide which areas that competition belongs.  Don’t just compete for the sake of competing.  Never lose track of your love in order to achieve competitive success.  Some people are meant to compete and they live for the taste of victory.  Others, like me simply enjoy the ride.

I think the message I’m hinting at here is that we should never alter the things we love in our life.  Maybe give it a try to see how it feels.  But if it doesn’t feel right, don’t change your methods just to bring yourself to a different level.  Enjoy the Competition, or Enjoy Your Ride.  Do what is right for you.

Enjoy Your Ride
Pin It

3 Responses to “ Enjoy the Competition. Enjoy Your Ride ”

  1. Eric Hutchins on August 5, 2014 at 10:30 pm

    I actually enjoy competitive cycling but really only when the competition is internal (against myself and the clock) time trialing. But especially triathlon. When the “test” is against yourself and what you think you are capable of. Its no different then riding that same old route you do every day but one day knocking it out two minutes faster than you ever have before. Tell me that doesn’t put a smile on your face. It does for me :).

  2. Jeff on July 28, 2014 at 11:41 pm

    How is the road quality? Traffic? Amount of good route considering small island?

Calendar

    March 2024
    M T W T F S S
     123
    45678910
    11121314151617
    18192021222324
    25262728293031

Archives

Sugar Alternatives for Energy and Hydration

Question: I am using the homebrew sugar formulations (sometimes added to green tea).  I am also trying to wean myself off 1/2 dose adrenalean “lip tonic delivery system” (biorhythm brand- caffeine, hoodia g, synephrine, yohimbe) capsule for energy.

My question is other than juice, can you suggest modifications in lieu of table sugar for energy and hydration.

Answer:

Both raw/organic honey or agave can work great in the homebrew (substitute in the same quantities for the sugar, or to taste), but you do have to shake well in order to make sure they don’t settle out.  Have you tried either of these?  Also, make sure to use at least the minimum amount of salt recommended in the homebrew as the temps rise, you need the sodium replacement if you’re sweating.

Sports Drink Homebrew

Please send us your questions for our Expert Sports Nutritionist, Kelli Jennings to “Ask the Sports Nutritionist“. Kelli Jennings is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for healthy eating, wellness, & sports nutrition. For more information go to www.apexnutritionllc.com.

Nutrition Tips