Interviews

#YOUCANTOO⚡️ LAURA - coaching cycling as a therapy

You Can Too: An NGNM series of inspirational stories from everyday women.

Today we’re finding out more about Laura. She’s a cycling coach and personal trainer, who started her cycling journey at the age of 15, jumping on a mountain bike in search of beautiful scenery. Thinking about getting into cycling or trying a different type of riding? #YouCanToo⚡

What’s she up to nowadays? Let’s see what she has to say.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome? - Whether that’s mentally or physically.

In the summer of last year, I signed up for the ‘Bonaigua Gran Fondo’ race. To be honest, I didn’t realise what I was getting into, didn’t really check the data, but you know how these things work. One gets over excited and just goes for it! The truth is, 114km with a whopping 3200m altitude was a huge challenge mentally for me. I know the Pyrenees area quite well, but I had never experienced it on the bike!

What 3 words would you use to describe cycling?

Challenging
Empowering
Therapy

We all have a person who we look up to or inspires us in cycling, who is that person for you?
I have been cycling for many years, and through my journey I have been inspired by so many people! Lately though, I have been following Juliet Elliot quite a lot. She has a very funny and charming personality, and the way she lives cycling as a lifestyle is very inspiring and reassures me how much I love this sport.

If you could change one thing about cycling, what would it be?

I wish female cycling (amateur and professional) was recognised more. Although I see more and more women out on the roads, I still get the odd comment that makes me feel like cycling is only a men’s sport.

What's your "specialty”?

Climbing and gravel!

Do you ride solo?

The first time I rode solo I was around 15 years old, so literally no preparation whatsoever! I always went out on my mountain bike looking for some cool scenery and exploring the area. Nowadays I really enjoy riding solo, but I prepare most of the ride and use my Wahoo so I can track it easily.

You see another woman cyclist coming your way you...: