What I learned from a ride with a client

It’s no secret we tend to perform much better when in the company of people that challenge us be that business or sport – for the golfers out there, think how much better you play when playing with someone on a much lower handicap (better still if they can give constructive feedback on your game).  For me I had a cycle with a client and this turned into a great lesson.

I have been slowly improving my ride times and average speeds as I train for events I do on an annual basis and by my standards I was very happy with progress – I had a plan and it was all coming together nicely.  Then a client invited me on a training ride with him and I believed I would more than hold my own, after all I was so happy with my progress??

About 10 min into the ride I was thinking wow we’re really piling on some pace, until I heard “ok we’re warm now let’s go”.   The ride was harder and faster than I thought I had in me, every time I started to slack or lag I got a bark of “encouragement” and I lifted and this carried on for over an hour but I came through.  The result a massive improvement on my average speeds I had been so happy with.  Even more than this my solo rides now are significantly higher average speeds as well because once you achieve what you didn’t know you could, it’s much easier the next time.

As I said, it’s no secret that we perform much better when in the company of people that challenge us, my question is who is challenging you?  Are you cruising along happy with progress but have more potential like I was?  Get someone in your camp that can challenge you and help you find what you really have to work with.  If you’re stuck for who – I can recommend a few good people that will help you find your best and grow.