I think about odd stuff while I crank my bike.
The other day I took off on a workout with a specific intensity goal in mind. This wasn’t a pleasure ride. But as I topped a small rise old habits kicked in and I coasted for perhaps 100-200 yards without even being aware.
I resumed pedaling and wondered what portion of my “workout” consists of gliding along on the momentum gained by gravity or previous performance. The odometer’s still clicking forward, creating the illusion of accomplishment, but I’m a passive passenger.
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Coasting on my bike is one thing, but this bit of awareness got me wondering how much I coast in other areas of life. Especially as a retired guy, it would be awfully easy to settle for the illusion of forward motion.
On the other hand, life’s not meant to be a 24-7 high-intensity workout. We all need some margin, some slack, and maybe that’s what coasting represents in cycling.
What troubled me about the coasting incident was my lack of awareness. Coasting, out of habit, in the midst of a workout defeats my own purpose. Coasting on a pleasure ride with friends is a great idea.
I don’t want fake motion and unconscious coasting. I also don’t want a ride with no opportunity to check out the scenery and enjoy the company of me team.
It’s not about coasting at all. It’s about making choices, being aware and intentional.
Nothing wrong with coasting, as long as I decide.
And as long as I get back to following the dream.
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