From Candyland to the Valley of Darkness: Embracing the Highs and Lows of Cycling

Cycling is one of those beautiful activities that can feel like magic. There are days when it’s all sunshine and tailwinds, when the road feels like a ribbon of joy stretching out in front of you. Your legs are light, the sky is blue, and it feels like you’re riding through Candyland —a place where every mile is effortless, and time seems to melt away under your tires. But just like in life, cycling has its valleys too . When the Ride Turns Dark One day you’re gliding through the landscape like you’ve got wings. The next day, it feels like you're pedaling through the Valley of Darkness . Your legs are heavy, the wind is relentless, and even the smallest hill feels like a mountain. We’ve all been there. And while those days can feel defeating, they’re also the days that make you stronger. The Power of Perseverance It’s during the hard rides—the ones where everything feels off—that your mindset matters most. That’s when it helps to remember: The joy you felt during your last great ...