Yesterday I checked off a cycling bucket list item: my first live studio Peloton class in New York City.
The ride was led by Christian Vande Velde, former professional cyclist, Olympian, NBC broadcaster, and someone who has spent a lifetime riding at a level most of us can only imagine. For an hour, he guided us up a virtual version of the climb to Mount Mitchell via the Blue Ridge Parkway, the highest point east of the Mississippi.
It was a great workout, but more than that, it was inspiring. Being coached by someone with that level of experience reminded me that there is always something to learn, whether you’re a cyclist, an athlete, or a coach. I left the studio a little stronger, a little smarter, and with a few ideas I’ll bring back to my own classes.
The funny thing is that now I want to ride the real thing. What started as a Peloton class has me looking at maps, dreaming up a road trip, and thinking about what it would be like to climb that route for real on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Some days a workout is just a workout. Some days it reminds you why you started riding in the first place.
This was one of those days.
