I have a problem. I am a relatively new rider. I have done some bike touring with my husband, but never any serious riding. In August 2 friends and I decided that we would do a century ride in July 2011. One of us had just finished a sprint triathlon, so she was in the best riding shape. I had not exercised for 6 months, was recovering from an illness and was in the worst shape of my life. The other partner had never seriously exercised. We said that we would spend September-January getting fit and then begin serious training. Two of us have been exercising, riding and doing spin classes 5 or 6 times per week. The other one has exercised once or twice per week. When we go out for our training rides two of us are way ahead and she is always lagging behind. She says that she has no more time to train. She insists that we set this goal together so we need to stick together. I feel that I need to work on my own health and fitness goals. She is feeling left out and left behind. Any suggestions for resolving this while still maintaining our friendship.

Andie