Media personality, motivational speaker and avid cyclist Liezel van der Westhuizen says the lessons she’s learnt through the sport will help her get through the challenges we are currently facing.
Liezel van der Westhuizen believes the lessons she’s learnt through cycling will help her get through the Covid-19 challenges. Photo: Supplied
And she believes she has some advice that may be of use to other cyclists as well.
“Cycling has taught me to go through literally tough times so many times in a race. I find myself at a point where I’m tired, sore and I just don’t want to carry on.
“It’s in these times that I dig deep and fight through. And see? Exactly this attitude is what’s going to get me through the challenges we face now.”
Referring to the Covid-19 lockdown, Van der Westhuizen says the important thing is what we as individuals make of it.
“Perspective means understanding that – politics aside – the lived experience of one South African to another differs fundamentally with how far you can stretch the money in your pocket (if there even is any sometimes).
“There are a world of health and economic challenges facing us which actually predate this strain of coronavirus.
“My faith, right now, is in the spirit of Ubuntu. I’m so heartened by the fact that so many South Africans have pulled together with the common goal of helping each other through this pandemic – whether by resources, time, or simple compassion.”
Van der Westhuizen, who travels around the world to compere events, believes that for now physical distancing makes sense – just like staying away from junk food is good for your health.
“One lockdown downer I can’t get over though is that I really miss my early morning cycles – and the fine café coffee afterwards with my fellow teammates.”
Van der Westhuizen, who in 2018 became the first woman to pilot a visually impaired athlete across the Himalayas on a tandem bicycle, sees two sides to indoor training.
“Most cyclists are cycling on indoor trainers which allows their sessions to be a lot more focused and task-specific. It’s actually a great time to build strength as well as to work on technique.
“Commendably, many people are augmenting with off-the-bike strength and functional training, which is often overlooked by cyclists.
“And let’s not forget the importance of rest and recovering off the bicycle, which is now possible during this time.
“Though it is hard to replicate a good long ride, even with today’s advanced indoor trainers. Also, the monotony of training alone is very difficult.”
The Capetonian’s advice to fellow cyclists on how to keep busy is to ensure you have a scheduled training programme and that you stick to it.
“This training regimen can include indoor cycling, weights and body weight hit sessions. Add some functional fitness to your day as well as giving your body time to recover with some cool-down yoga sessions.
“Just like any normal training week it’s important to stick to your programme and to enjoy a rest day.
“Also, take it one day at a time and set a small, manageable goal for that day.
“Be specific and determined in achieving your goal, because each small daily victory will carry you through.”
She also advised people to be kind to themselves and to remember also to rest, relax and take it easy during this time.
“Listen to your body because maybe you don’t feel anything physically, but there’s also mental health to consider.
“Personally, I break my day down into specific segments, which are allocated for work, training and relaxation.
“I make sure that I get up and get dressed every morning and start my day as I would any other. I go through my goals, confirm my schedule and drive towards completing that list every day.
“Having a sense of purpose is what will motivate you through this.”
Regarding where the country and cycling in SA will be post-pandemic, she said it was hard to say as she really did not know if the virus would ever leave us.
“I think social distancing may become the new normal and we’ll have to adjust the way we interact accordingly.
“It’s very hard to predict anything when we’re dealing with something unprecedented for the era.
“But what I do know is that having a focused and positive outlook will be the way to deal with whatever comes our way.”
