The start of a new year offers a perfect opportunity to set fresh goals and embrace healthy habits.
Whether you’re a long time cycling enthusiast or just eager to embark on a new fitness journey, why not make 2024 your year of cycling? Here’s a few challenges for you to consider…
Monthly Time Trials: Race Against Yourself
Select a specific route or distance and time yourself each month. Record your results and strive to beat your personal best each time. Time trials add an element of competition, even if you’re only competing against yourself, you can easily track your fitness over the year.
Century Ride Quest: Conquer 100 Miles
Challenge yourself to complete a century ride, covering 100 miles in a single cycling session or over a few days if you prefer.
Break it down into manageable segments or go all out for an unforgettable day-long adventure. This challenge not only tests your endurance but also allows you to explore new routes and scenic landscapes.
Elevation Gain Challenge: Reach New Heights
Take your cycling to the next level by setting an elevation gain goal for the year. Aim to climb a specific amount of vertical feet or conquer a particular climb each month. This challenge not only builds strength but also rewards you with beautiful views at the summit (if you pick a decent view of course!)
Cycling Commute Streak: Ditch the Car
Commit to replacing your regular commute with cycling as often as possible (if feasible). Whether it’s cycling to work, the shop, or social events, this challenge promotes a sustainable and healthy lifestyle. Track your streak and see how long you can last or how many days a week you can manage only using the bike…
Virtual Tour Challenge: “Cycle” Around the World
Explore the ‘world’ from the comfort of your home by participating in virtual cycling tours or races. Platforms like Zwift offer various virtual routes replicating iconic locations globally.
Challenge yourself to complete these routes and build up your fitness through the winter. If money or free time is not a concern for you then you could even cycle around the world for real!
Night Rider Challenge: Embrace the Dark Side
Extend your cycling adventures into the evening by participating in a night riding challenge. Just make sure to equip your bike with proper lighting and wear reflective gear!
Night riding offers a different perspective and may bring a more relaxing atmosphere that contrasts daytime cycling, especially on the cycle paths and trails… Ride with others if you can and update friends or family on your progress via GPS (especially if in remote areas at night).
Cycling Photography Expedition: Capture the Journey
Combine your love for cycling with photography by embarking on a cycling photography challenge. Choose picturesque routes, capture the scenery, and document your cycling journey throughout the year.
You could share your photos on social media to inspire others and create a stunning visual diary of your cycling adventures to look back on…
Charity Ride Challenge: Pedal with a Purpose
Participate in charity cycling events or create your own fundraising challenge. Set a goal for the amount of money you’d like to raise and dedicate your rides to a cause close to your heart.
Not only will you be contributing to a meaningful cause, but you’ll also find added motivation to pedal harder.
Multi-Day Tour: Plan a Cycling Getaway
Challenge yourself with a multi-day cycling tour. Whether it’s a solo adventure or a group trip, plan a route that spans several days, complete with overnight stops.
This challenge combines the joy of exploration and friends old or new. This could be a tour which starts from your front door or abroad… The choice is yours!
Cycling Skill Mastery: Learn a New Technique
Challenge yourself to improve your cycling skills by mastering a new technique. Whether it’s mastering tight turns, perfecting hill climbs, or tackling technical descents, acquiring new skills enhances both your safety and enjoyment on the bike.
Or even try a new discipline of cycling. Perhaps you’re a roadie ready to take the step into the world of gravel or even MTB?!
As you start these cycling challenges, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Set realistic goals, celebrate milestones and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with each challenge!
Let us know if you have a goal in mind for 2024!
