how much does state of mind effect your cycling?

[diamondcat]

I've noticed that the day after having a big fight with my significant other can really effect my cycling the next day.
I am just off point and not entirely in to it, all over effecting my cycling performance because my mind isn't over the previous nights argument.

anyone else like this?

[zoom-zoom]

Completely.

[Bike Writer]

Yes.

At times the cycling can shake off a mood or state of mind and at other times no amount of cycling can help.

One thing about a poor state of mind, beware, accidents can happen more readily when we can't concentrate fully on where we are at the moment.

[zoom-zoom]

One thing about a poor state of mind, beware, accidents can happen more readily when we can't concentrate fully on where we are at the moment.

If I'm really feeling rattled I will go for a run, since there is less risk of me doing something boneheaded when I'm slowly running facing traffic.

[limewave]

I used to call running my "angry sport" and cycling my "happy sport." The reason being that I could do a hard, fast run if I was upset about something. However, I could only have "good" rides if I was "happy."

So to answer your question, state of mind completely and totally effects my riding.

[zoom-zoom]

I used to call running my "angry sport" and cycling my "happy sport." The reason being that I could do a hard, fast run if I was upset about something. However, I could only have "good" rides if I was "happy."

Exactly. For me being angry on the bike is probably asking for a potentially dangerous situation.

[Crankin]

Geez, I guess I never get angry enough to fear that it will affect my riding. I have been sick enough or preoccupied with something that has made me want to just go out and walk, at times, but not really angry. In fact, I find it's the opposite. If I have a problem, cycling allows me to be contemplative and I always feel better.

[shootingstar]

I found anger, deep anger got dissipated by cycling for me. It actually helps me release anger. There is nothing like pounding along up a hill...

However when I feel quite sad, then most definitely my cycling speed and efficiency is affected. Cycling doesn't make me feel whole lot better when I miss some loved ones. However, I know for myself it is still alot better for me, just to clunk along slowly on bike even when I'm feeling sad.

[lph]

When I'm angry I tend to be upset or sad too. (I guess that's because I'm usually angry at someone, not something, which makes me feel out of balance with the world.) In general I have trouble exercising hard when that happens, it really sucks energy out of me. Not that I can't use the adrenaline and endorphins, but I find it hard to focus and find the energy I need because my mind is working like a hamster on a wheel already.

Plain uncomplicated sad, like after someone's death, it's easier to bike, and it helps a lot more.

[Jiffer]

I agree that it can go both ways. Cycling can help shake off a bad emotional state, but it can also cause poor performance. The first time I was fully aware of the latter was not with myself, but with my friend. We were doing a usual ride and she wasn't feeling so great so I was doing most the pulling. The further we went, the slower we went and it was clear she was REALLY not doing well, very uncharacteristic for her. We pulled over and she started to cry. I found out she was going through something pretty deep. We turned around and went to a coffee place and she unloaded on me.

I've experienced both as well. I think it depends on how deep the emotional turmoil is as to whether a ride can help or just be miserable. Sometimes it can help even though you can only go at a slow speed. Just getting out and lolly gagging can be therapeutic, but sometimes riding as hard as you possible can can help get your aggressions out if you are physically able.

[tealtreak]

I've noticed that the day after having a big fight with my significant other can really effect my cycling the next day.
I am just off point and not entirely in to it, all over effecting my cycling performance because my mind isn't over the previous nights argument.

anyone else like this?

Do you only ride roads? the thing I love about mt biking is the total focus necessary...if you blip... you wreck! so it takes your mind off whatever ....(: