Cycling Tips

Stay on the Saddle: How to Ride When You Don’t Feel Like It

Ben August 14, 2025 3 minutes read

Stay on the saddle, it sounds easy, right? But when motivation dips and life gets heavy, even hopping on your bike feels impossible. Whether it’s fatigue, boredom, or plain old burnout, we’ve all been there. The good news? You can push through. And in this post, I’ll show you how I ride even on the days I don’t want to.

1. Why It’s Hard to Stay on the Saddle

We all love the thrill of cycling. But let’s be real there are days it feels like a chore. Bad weather, stress, or just a lack of energy can keep us off the bike. Understanding why we lose motivation is the first step to beating it.

2. Set a Bare Minimum Goal to Stay on the Saddle

When I’m dragging my feet, I set small goals. Just 15 minutes on the saddle. Often, once I start, I ride longer. The key is to lower the barrier of entry. Focus on effort, not speed or distance.

3. Stay on the Saddle by Switching Up Your Routine

Monotony kills motivation. So change your route. Try an early morning ride. Listen to a podcast. Ride a different bike if you have one. New experiences can reignite your cycling spark.

4. Use Tools to Stay on the Saddle: IGS630S Bike Computer

I use the IGS630S to gamify my rides. Seeing progress, setting goals, and tracking performance makes each ride feel rewarding even when my motivation is low.

5. Find Accountability to Stay on the Saddle

A riding buddy or Strava group can change everything. When someone’s expecting you to show up, you’ll feel more inclined to ride even when you don’t want to. Social pressure works in your favor.

6. Stay on the Saddle With Proper Rest and Nutrition

Sometimes, you’re just too tired. And that’s okay. Listen to your body. Prioritize sleep and eat well. You’ll be surprised how much energy you regain by resting smart.

7. Track the Wins to Keep Staying on the Saddle

Keep a log of your rides. Celebrate the small wins consistency, not speed, is what matters. Looking back on a full week of rides gives a huge motivational boost.]