We Dare You: Start a Ride Streak
When I turned 40 in 1993, I knew I'd never make it as a pro cyclist, but I still wanted to do something extraordinary on two wheels. I was also tired of feeling stale after days off the bike. I decided to try riding every day for at least an hour. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I believe there's a natural human desire to keep something going.
After about 1,000 days, I felt a strong responsibility to maintain the habit. As I write this, I've completed my 7,964th consecutive ride (trainer sessions are allowed) and been streaking for nearly 22 years. In 2011, I even had my 15 minutes of fame on AT&T's U-verse Sports channel.
RELATED: 5 Reasons You Should Be Riding Every Day
I don't let life get in the way. I get the stomach flu, I've been laid off, I've had hernia surgery. But I always make my daily ride the highest priority. (Bonus: I get sick a lot less than I did before the streak.) I travel with a Bike Friday folding bicycle, or beg/borrow/rent bikes when I'm on the road.
Along the way, I've had to find new ways to motivate myself: I'll listen to audio books, or upgrade components, or set goals like competing in masters road racing. I can't imagine a day without a bike ride.
When people ask about the streak, I tell them that it's not any tougher than brushing your teeth every day. The truth is, after spending a third of my life streaking, I'm not so much concerned about how to keep it going—I'm starting to worry whether I'll be able to stop.
(Pro tip: Ready to try a ride streak? Our 21-day #RideStreak Challenge for cyclists of all disciplines can help you get into—and enjoy—the habit. You’ll get practical and easy-to-execute advice about how to get rolling faster, find more time to ride, take care of your bike, and stay motivated for the long haul. Sign up now and start rolling January 1!)
Jim Langley is the author of Your Home Bicycle Workshop. He was Bicycling's technical editor from 1989 to 1999.
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