I appreciate your perspective and I wholeheartedly agree - discomfort should never be the goal in cycling, or any pursuit for that matter. It's a misconception that suffering is necessary for progress. In fact, it's counterproductive. When we're in pain, our bodies are signaling that something is wrong, not that we're improving. The 'no pain, no gain' mentality is a remnant of outdated training philosophies that prioritized quantity over quality.
However, I'd like to add that discomfort can serve as a useful indicator. It can signal when we're pushing our boundaries, which is essential for growth. But it's crucial to distinguish between discomfort and pain. Discomfort is temporary and manageable, while pain is a warning sign that should not be ignored.
In cycling, we often talk about 'finding the red zone'. This is the point where we're pushing ourselves, but not so hard that we're causing harm. It's about finding that sweet spot between comfort and discomfort, where growth happens without compromising our health or enjoyment.
So, let's not glorify pain, but also not dismiss the role of discomfort in our cycling journey. It's all about balance and listening to our bodies. After all, the joy of cycling lies in the freedom it offers, not the suffering it can bring.
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