How training for the Momentum 947 Cycle Challenge is like saving for your future

The Momentum 947 Cycle Challenge is just days away and cycle enthusiasts across South Africa are gearing up to ride one of the biggest cycle races in Gauteng. Whether you are riding the Momentum 947 Cycle Challenge for the first time, or if you are a seasoned cyclist, a good training schedule is essential leading up to the race.

The financial services giant, Momentum, sees the sponsorship of the cycle race a natural fit. We look at how training for a near-100km race can be a daunting task, and compare it to training for your financial wellness journey. In both instances, the goal is the same: complete the race harnessing all your gusto and determination to finish well. 

Carel Bosman, Momentum Sponsorship Manager and avid cyclist says “For many, saving for your retirement and completing the 947 Cycle Challenge can be two very different goals, but if you take a closer look, you come to realise that it can be quite a similar task if you approach it with the same positive mind-set.” 

Here are a few training tips for the 947 Cycle Challenge and realising how it can be quite similar to training for your future:   

• Preparation: Nothing beats preparation. Try and train at least three times a week leading up to the race. This will ensure that your muscles grow in strength and will be able to endure the long length race. The same with your savings plan; preparation and saving each month is key for retiring well. 

• Start small: At the beginning of your training schedule, start small. Take it easy at first and then build on that. With your savings plan, the key is to start as soon as possible, regardless of how much you are able to save each month. Start with what you can and gradually increase it over the years as you are able to save more, or as you receive increases at work or bonuses. 

• Bumps along the road: When riding the 947 Cycle Challenge, if you hit a big hill or bump in the road, it is ok to slow down and rest if you can. This will give you and your muscles a break and will allow you to tackle the remaining leg of the race much better. In life, things happen and we hit bumps in the road such as unemployment, salary cuts or increase in cost of living. It is important to know is that it is ok to slow down and take a break when necessary, and get back onto the saddle when you can and continue with your savings plan. Always keep the goal in mind: financial independence in your old age. 

• Consistency: With long length races such as the 947 Cycle Challenge, it is not necessary to train for the full length of the race – what is important is ensuring that you are training each week. When it comes to saving each month, save the same amount of money each month until you can increase the value. This will help you get into the habit of saving regularly. 

• Competition: Don’t compete with others riding the race with you because everybody is different and it is important to ride your own race. The same with your savings plan, your financial journey is unique to you and it is essential to not compare yourself with the Jones’s.   

• Advice from others: One of the best ways to train for the 947 Cycle Challenge is to learn from others that have ridden the race - their advice is invaluable. When starting a savings plan, it is great to sit with a financial adviser to guide you with helpful tips that are suitable for your particular financial situation. This will ensure you skirt the potholes and maximise on your savings potential.

For more on the Momentum 947 Cycle Challenge see: www.momentum/for/you/sponsorships/cycle-challenge