Hey ,

This past weekend, my cycling pals and I decided to seize the sunny UK weather, hopping on our bikes and hitting the road. Our destination? The renowned city of Canterbury, a journey originating from Blackheath in southeast London.

This wasn't our first rodeo—my comrades had braved this ride back in 2022, but I could only accompany them part-way before breaking off to get a few solo miles under my belt. But that was then, and this is now. This time, I'd cleared my schedule for a full day of cycling.

The route we'd chosen snaked south before veering north, coursing through the serene Kent countryside. The roads were tranquil, the air crisp, and the weather perfect for cycling. Short sleeves and highs of 24 degrees, just the way we like it.

Five of us rolled out, but we were one short. A friend from our local triathlon club was supposed to join us. She'd messaged me the night before, expressing her doubts about keeping up with our pace for such a lengthy ride. Encouraging her to push her limits, she assured me she'd make an appearance or at the very least, turn around if she couldn't keep up.

But she didn't show.

I couldn't help but feel a pang of regret. I remembered the days when I'd struggle to keep up with my friends, being left behind on numerous occasions. But I persisted, pushing myself harder each time, until one day, I proudly announced to my friend Jamie that I'd lasted the whole ride. It was a victory for the books, and now, I confidently lead the pack.

But here's the thing...

If I'd let the fear of being the slowest cyclist deter me, I would've never known how far I could go. The truth is, if you want to improve, sometimes you have to be the slowest one at the back, pedalling your heart out to keep up. Nobody starts as the best, we all work hard to get there.

So, to my friend who didn't show up and to you, I say this—don't shy away from a challenge. Don't be afraid of being the slowest or the least experienced. Don't let the fear of failure stop you from stepping on the pedal and giving it your all.

And when you're ready to take that leap, I'll be here to guide you.

Join me in my one-to-one coaching programme, where I'll share the same tips, tricks and techniques that helped me transform from the slowest cyclist in the pack to the one leading the charge. Together, we can unlock your true potential and see just how far you can go.

Click here to find out more about my coaching programme.

Neil