I struggle with this question with many of my coaching clients (especially the women). Here are a sampling of some questions I ask them:

  • Do you schedule your training?
  • Is that training specific and structured?
  • Do you monitor your caloric intake and the ratio of macro-nutrients (aka carbs, protein, and fat)?
  • Do you measure the amount of fluids you drink on a daily basis?
  • Do you maintain your equipment and clothing so you can participate in your sport?
  • Do you get enough sleep so you can ride?
  • Have you read a book, watched a video, or taken a class to learn more about the sport of cycling?


I think you get the picture. If you answered yes to even one of these questions, I would consider you an athlete.

It's difficult for many women, especially those of us pre-Title 9, to consider ourselves athletes. As girls, we were taught to be humble. Athletes aren't humble, right? We were taught that being competitive isn't feminine. But athletes are competitive, even if our competition is a local hill or a personal best time or completing our longest ride. We were taught that a beautiful body isn't muscular. Heck, you've all got muscles, even if they might be hidden under a little more adipose tissue than an elite athlete!

You do not need to be a racer to be an athlete. But for those who ride regularly, I would encourage you to be proud of your athletic accomplishments! And if someone questions that, just smile and know that there are other beautiful women cyclists who believe in you.

Lorri