When the wheels keep turning, but the mind and body need rest
Professional cyclists have long been conditioned to ride through suffering. However, in recent years, a number of riders have demonstrated what courage looks like off the bike as well. Tom Dumoulin’s decision to take a break from racing, Rohan Dennis’s openness about burnout, and Lizzie Deignan’s reflections on balancing motherhood and mental health have helped challenge an unwillingness to speak up within sport. Teams have also begun to integrate sports psychologists into their staff as it becomes increasingly clear that mental health isn’t separate from performance; it’s a foundation of it.
And this shift isn’t just happening in the pro ranks. Local cycling groups are beginning to normalise the idea that you can ride for your head as much as your legs. It’s becoming more common to hear teammates ask not just “How’s your training going?” but “How are you, really?”.
Why cycling helps more than just the body
We are so glad to see it, too. We can all acknowledge that, when approached mindfully, cycling offers an environment that naturally supports mental well-being. Aerobic exercise releases endorphins, regulates sleep, and lowers stress hormones like cortisol, resulting in the familiar “post-ride calm” that many cyclists describe. Studies have shown that regular moderate-intensity activity can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by up to 30%.
Long rides offer time to process heavy thoughts, gain perspective on a difficult situation, or simply breathe and calm the nervous system. Even on a short jaunt, the rhythm of pedalling can become meditative and provide a much-needed chance to reset. And while solitude on two wheels has its place, it’s often the social side of cycling that provides the greatest lift. Riding with others fosters community and accountability, creating a built-in support network that often results in lasting bonds that extend beyond the act of riding itself.
More riders are talking about something deeper: mental health. © Profimedia
When passion becomes pressure
Still, it’s essential to give the other side of the story the weight it deserves. The same traits that make cyclists dedicated, such as discipline, persistence, and a love of progress, can also make them prone to overtraining and self-criticism.
A 2024 study in the BJM Open Sports and Exercise Medicine found that endurance athletes were twice as likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression linked to overtraining and perfectionism. Many cyclists struggle silently, equating rest with laziness or feeling guilty for not hitting targets.
And then there’s the post-race crash. After a big event or race, many riders feel flat or aimless. Without a goal to chase, motivation and mood can dip sharply and result in some very unwelcome symptoms. Sports psychologists refer to it as “achievement hangover,” a normal yet rarely discussed aspect of athletic life.
Slowing down — and letting others in
Fortunately, we are seeing more of an effort to address how our bikes can also serve primarily as a tool for improving mental health. A Lancet Psychiatry study found that people who cycled regularly reported 21% fewer days of poor mental health per month compared to those who didn’t exercise. Cycling teaches us patience and resilience, but it also offers lessons in pacing. Learning when to ease off, when to seek help, and when to rest is a valuable skill, one that can save not just your fitness but also your overall well-being.
Local clubs and advocacy groups are also helping to shift the culture. Campaigns like Global Community Cycle for Suicide Prevention or Ride for Mental Health encourage cyclists to use their rides as platforms for awareness and fundraising. Even within smaller cycling communities, riders are hosting “mental health rides,” slower-paced meetups where people can focus on connection and support.
How to make cycling work for your well-being
If you’re feeling mentally drained, your instinct might be to ride harder or chase new personal bests. But sometimes the most healing thing you can do is slow down and reframe your relationship with the bike.
Not every ride has to be a training session. Sometimes success means simply getting outside. Ask yourself, “Do I feel better than when I started?” If the answer is yes, that’s a win. And if the numbers start to dictate your self-worth, take a step back. Hide your power data, skip uploading to Strava, or ride by feel.
If rides stop feeling enjoyable or motivation disappears for weeks, it may be time to talk to someone. Therapy, sports psychology, or even confiding in a teammate can make a real difference.
Supporting each other on and off the bike
As mental health awareness grows within the cycling world, support is becoming easier to find. Many national federations now offer mental health resources for athletes, and clubs are starting to incorporate mental wellness discussions into their training plans. Online communities, from Strava groups to local Facebook rides, often serve as informal support systems.
Riding toward a healthier culture
World Mental Health Day is a reminder that caring for our minds isn’t separate from training; it’s a crucial and essential part of it. As cyclists, we’re uniquely placed to model that balance: pushing limits when it’s right, pulling back when it’s needed, and always looking out for each other along the way.
**If you or someone you know is struggling
You’re not alone. Talking helps, whether with a friend, a teammate, or a professional. If you need immediate support, contact your local mental health helpline or visit findahelpline.com to find international resources that connect you to free, confidential support in your country.