Midsummer blues! Who's got them? Answer: most cyclists suffer from some sort of midsummer blues.
 
It's that time of the year, and I'm having more of these conversations lately. The midsummer blues! The most important thing to realize is that these blues are part of the process. Almost all endurance athletes have some sort of motivational issues when it comes to their individual sport during the summer months.

➡️  Common Causes of midsummer blues!

✅  Heat and Humidity: The high temperatures and humidity of midsummer can make rides physically uncomfortable and exhausting. This can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and a general sense of fatigue.

✅  Training Fatigue: By mid-summer, many cyclists have been training hard for months. The accumulation of physical and mental fatigue can lead to burnout and a loss of motivation.

✅  Monotony: Riding the same routes and following the same routines can become monotonous. The excitement and novelty of cycling may wear off, leading to a feeling of boredom.

✅  Competition Pressure: Cyclists who participate in races or events may feel pressure to perform well, which can lead to stress and anxiety. If performance doesn't meet expectations, it can result in disappointment and reduced enthusiasm.

✅  Injuries and Aches: Overuse injuries or persistent aches and pains can be more common in mid-summer after prolonged periods of intense riding. These physical issues can dampen enthusiasm for getting back on the bike.

✅  Balancing Life and Cycling: The demands of balancing work, family, and other responsibilities with a rigorous cycling schedule can become overwhelming, leading to stress and a feeling of being stretched too thin.

✅  Hydration and Nutrition Issues: Maintaining proper hydration and nutrition in the heat can be challenging. Poor hydration and nutrition can lead to decreased energy levels and mood swings.

✅  High Expectations: Setting high goals for the season and not achieving them can lead to frustration and disappointment. The realization that the season is more than halfway over can exacerbate these feelings.

✅  Loss of Focus: As the initial excitement of the cycling season fades, some cyclists may lose focus on their goals and struggle to find new motivation.

✅  Social Isolation: For those who typically ride alone, the lack of social interaction can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can affect overall mood and motivation.

➡️  What to do?

✅  Buy a new bike: no explanation necessary. 😂😂😂

✅  Set New Goals: Whether it's a new distance, a personal best time, or a new route, having a goal can provide motivation. 

✅  Vary Your Routes: Exploring new routes can keep things interesting. 

✅  Ride with Friends: Cycling with friends or joining a local cycling club can make rides more enjoyable and social. It can also provide accountability and encouragement.

✅  Change Your Routine: Mix up your riding schedule by trying early morning or evening rides to avoid the heat and see different scenery.

✅  Take Care of Your Bike: A well-maintained bike can make rides more enjoyable. Take this time to clean, tune, or upgrade parts of your bike.

✅  Listen to Music or Podcasts: If it's safe to do so, listening to your favorite music or podcasts can make solo rides more enjoyable.

✅  Rest and Recover: Don’t be afraid to take a break if you’re feeling burned out. Sometimes a few days off the bike can help rejuvenate your passion for cycling.

✅  Explore New Techniques: Work on specific cycling skills, like climbing, descending, or cornering, to keep your rides engaging and improve your overall performance.