A pro offers her tips.
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My relationship with exercise is a complicated one.
But nothings intimidated me quite as much as cycling.
Experts in This Article
I couldnt imagine ever being able to do it without injuring myself.
And I worried Id spend the entire time wondering what everyone would be thinking of me.
What if I couldnt keep up?
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What if my body wouldnt move the same way as everyone elses?
Of course, I knew this was just my anxiety getting the best of me.
We all had to start at the beginning, says Toole.
Riding alongside other people (even virtually) near the same skill level also seems less intimidating to me.
I wont be the only one potentially looking awkward as I get used to the bike.
Start small, suggests Toole.
What is important is discovering your own strength.
Yet even Toole admits to sometimes getting bombarded by critical inner thoughts.
But I remind myself that I dont have to believe that voice, says Toole.
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Were proud of what were doing.
Honor where your bodys at
Exercise is supposed to feel empowering, not uncomfortable or painful.
You know your body.
If something feels wrong, it is.
Toole helped convince me that making modifications doesnt mean Im weak or less than.
Celebrate the little wins
Dont underestimate what you accomplish when youre just starting out.
Even just getting to class, or pushing farther than you did the day before is something to acknowledge.
It doesnt have to be a huge moment to be celebrated, said Toole.
Its those little wins every single day that actually create that source of empowerment.
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