Fans of the Tour de France know it’s almost time. The 101st Tour de France takes place from July 5-27. Even if you’re not a cyclist, there are plenty of lessons to be learned from one of the most-watched, most strenuous sporting events taking place on the world stage. This year as you watch the Tour de France, take notice of how athletic dedication can be applied to our own less celebrated lives.
Novelist Elizabeth West wrote (in Hovel in the Hills): “When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments. Here was a machine of precision and balance for the convenience of man. And (unlike subsequent inventions for man’s convenience) the more he used it, the fitter his body became. Here, for once, was a product of man’s brain that was entirely beneficial to those who used it, and of no harm or irritation to others. Progress should have stopped when man invented the bicycle.”
We encourage everyone to watch the Tour de France live for insights on true athleticism, dedication and commitment. With such praise for the bicycle and this momentous event, let’s have a look at some of the virtues and lessons we can learn from those who ride it in one of summer’s most thrilling sporting events.
1. Endurance
Endurance is built over time and The Tour de France lasts almost a month. No athlete attempts this race without a whole lot of training. In life, it’s the same thing: start at your comfort level and push daily to improve till you’re ready to take on the big race.
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