Today I chat with Jess Greenhalgh about how mountain biking became a “thing” for her and how she is going from strength to strength in a relatively short space of time.  Jess is a member of the British Army and has been chosen to represent their Enduro MTB team for 2023 and will compete in the British National Enduro Series this year.  What a boss.

We talk about her dedication to getting race fit for the 2023 season, how she stays motivated to train and her discipline around this that is ingrained in her from being in the Army.  

We also chat about how knowing and listening to your body is key in avoiding over-training and also giving yourself a break if you are on your period, because they really can affect your performance. 

Get stuck into the pod and hear the full convo, it is so interesting and I would love to hear your thoughts on this, head on over to my instagram or facebook page and leave a comment. You will find the links to these below.

The Guest: 

Started riding in 2017, sort of, when I was in basic Army officer training as a way to let off some steam. Parked the bike to pursue CrossFit and triathlon; picked it back up in 2020.

Three Morzine summers and a 2022 race season later, I’ve been selected for the Army team in 2023.

I use MTB to help my mental health and fitness, and for a good stress relief from work! 

You can follow Jess and see how she gets on with racing at @jessg_mtb on Instagram and check out the army enduro team @armyenduromtb

If you are in the army and are interested in riding bikes, get in touch with Jess, she will be happy to chat to you.

Take away's from the episode:

• Discipline, planning and consistency are a huge part of getting yourself prepared for racing or any physical event.  Jess thinks of every workout as a puzzle piece, she has to do it as it fits in with the bigger plan.  Great way to think of it and stay motivated.

• Periods can have a very real affect on how you show up on your bike. 

• Look out for the signs of over training.  Listen to your body and know it’s ok to have a break and go easy on yourself.

• We love bikes.

Links

• The best padded shorts on the planet as tested by superhuman Jess https://www.sigmasports.com/item/Assos/Dyora-RS-S9-Womens-Bib-Short/PYJ6?s=1

• If you want to get out on your bike and need some riding buddies then check out some local mountain bike groups.  They create opportunities for connection, a sense of belonging and friendships.  MTB Chix and Trails are really active on facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/370678596444806/ and Trail birds, a midlands based group but have members all over https://en-gb.facebook.com/groups/trailbirds/about/   and get following GOW podcast @girlsonwheelspodcast and Shawnee @_shredlikeagirl for news on social events.  Jess also welcomes messages if you want a buddy to ride with in the South. 

The Pod:

Don’t forget to head on over to the GOW website https://girlsonwheelspodcast.co.uk/ and subscribe to the newsletter, you’ll be updated on upcoming guests and episodes and get a chance to get involved, either by suggesting topics, guests, coming on to share your story, or joining the panel for random episodes.  

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Girls on wheels coming at yaaaaaaaaaa. 

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