How to Start a Career as a Bike Rider: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to defining success in the exciting world of bike riding, each cyclist has their own unique criteria. Just as Don puts it, "success" can be subjective. For some, it might mean simply staying upright and avoiding traffic. For others, it could be competing in prestigious events like the Tour de France or winning an Olympic Gold Medal.

For many passionate and reasonably enthusiastic cyclists, achieving the milestone of completing a century ride - which is 100 miles (160 kilometers) - can serve as a significant indication that they’ve reached a personal level of success and arrival. This milestone not only reflects progress but also a level of dedication and perseverance that is setting them apart in the cycling community.

Defining Success

Before embarking on your cycling journey, it’s essential to define what success means to you. Once you’ve established a clear goal, work diligently toward achieving it. As I found, success is not always about competing at the highest level; even achieving smaller milestones can be incredibly rewarding. Over the past few years, I’ve completed numerous long-distance rides and even a grueling Ironman triathlon, where the bike portion alone was 112 miles and took just under 6 hours to complete. The key factors in my success have been persistence and enjoyment of the journey.

Overcoming Initial Fears and Self-Doubt

Many beginners feel intimidated by the prospect of cycling, especially after seeing more experienced riders zoom past them on the road. It’s natural to feel behind in your skills, but remember that everyone started somewhere. Reflecting on my own journey, I can only speculate on the irony of not starting sooner.

That all changed one day when I walked past a local cycling shop and came across this empowering quote by Amelia Earhart:

“The most effective way to do it is to do it.” - Amelia Earhart

This quote inspired me to step into the shop and purchase my first bike. Since then, I've been cycling almost exclusively, and I truly wonder why I hesitated to start sooner. This experience taught me that the only way to progress is to jump into it and embrace the activity wholeheartedly.

Why You Should Just Do It

If you're considering taking the plunge into the world of cycling, there's no better piece of advice than the following quote from Mark Twain:

Get a bike and start riding. You will not regret it if you live.

Mark’s wisdom applies not only to bike riding but to any hobby or career you might pursue. Avoid comparing yourself to others and focus on what you want from cycling. Whether you want to race, ride off-road, wear colorful gear, or have the ultimate bike - the only important aspect is aligning your goals with your personal desires and motivations.

Getting Started

So, how do you start a career as a bike rider? Here are the steps:

Get a Bike: Choose a bike that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you want a mountain bike, a road bike, or a hybrid, make sure it aligns with your goals and budget. Start Riding: Begin with shorter rides and gradually increase your distance. This will help you build endurance and confidence. Join a Cycling Community: Engage with fellow cyclists through local clubs, online forums, or fitness apps. This can provide support and motivation. Set Goals: Define what success means to you and set achievable goals. Whether it’s riding a century or participating in a race, having a clear goal will guide your progress. Train Consistently: Regular practice is crucial for improvement. Make cycling a regular part of your routine. Enjoy the Journey: The most important aspect is enjoying what you do. Cycling should be a fun and fulfilling activity.

Remember, success in cycling is not just about high achievements, but also about the personal growth and enjoyment you derive from the sport. So, if you've ever felt the desire to become a bike rider, today is the perfect day to just do it and start your journey towards a fulfilling and successful cycling career.