5 Lessons From a 70.7 Mile Bike Ride: Applying Cycling Wisdom to the Classroom

Recently, I completed a 70.7-mile bike ride through the picturesque landscapes of Door County, Wisconsin. After the ride, I spent some time reflecting on what could have made it better for me and how some of my reflections could be applied to the classroom. Here's what I came up with.

Planning and preparation pay off.

For cyclists: Proper planning for a long ride involves mapping your route, checking weather conditions, preparing your gear, and ensuring your bike is in top condition. You also need a plan for hydration and refueling. This can make the difference between a smooth ride and a series of frustrating setbacks.

For teachers: Thorough lesson planning and preparation are worthwhile in the classroom. Well-structured lessons, prepared materials, and anticipating potential questions or challenges can lead to more effective and engaging learning experiences for students. Teaching is stressful no matter what, but this can lessen the load.

Take care of yourself during the ride. Self-care is important both in and out of the classroom.

For cyclists: During a long ride, it's essential to stay hydrated, fuel your body with proper nutrition, and listen to your body's needs. Taking short breaks when necessary can help prevent burnout and injury.

For teachers: Educators often prioritize their students' needs over their own. However, practicing self-care is crucial for maintaining energy, enthusiasm, and effectiveness in the classroom. This involves setting boundaries, taking breaks when needed, and engaging in activities that recharge you outside of work hours. A school year is like a marathon; finding ways to pace yourself is important.

It's more fun when you are with other people.

For cyclists: Riding with a group can provide motivation, support, and camaraderie. It can make long rides more enjoyable and push you to achieve goals you might not attempt alone. This year, I was able to ride with a core group of friends. We shared a house, ate well, and laughed often.

For teachers: Collaboration with colleagues can enhance the teaching experience. Sharing ideas, team teaching, or simply having a support network can make the challenges of education more manageable and rewarding. It's hard to teach when you're on an island. Finding colleagues to talk to and share the load with makes all the difference.

If you want to improve, you have to put in the work. Learn, do, reflect, do better, and repeat.

For cyclists: Improving your cycling performance requires consistent practice, learning proper techniques, reflecting on your rides, and continuously challenging yourself to do better.

For teachers: Professional growth in education follows a similar pattern. Continuously learning new teaching strategies, implementing them in the classroom, reflecting on their effectiveness, and refining your approach improves teaching skills and student outcomes. It's not about achieving some state of perfection; it's about being just a little bit better tomorrow than you were today.

You have to put in the work. Learn, do, reflect, do better, and repeat

For cyclists: In cycling, it's easy to get caught up in comparing your speed or endurance to others. However, the most meaningful progress comes from focusing on your growth. Keeping track of small improvements over time can become an effective motivator.

For teachers: Each classroom and teacher's journey in education is unique. Rather than comparing yourself to colleagues, focus on your growth. Celebrate your improvements in teaching methods, student engagement, and overall effectiveness compared to your past performance. Find a way to log your wins and revisit them when you need them the most.

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