'Cycling is a requirement, not an obsession': how one 46-year-old vet racer stays motivated to keep on winning

Last year, Helen Jackson won two age group national championships, her age group in the Gravel World Champs, and the Three Peaks Cyclo-Cross challenge. And she's not slowing down any time, soon...

Helen at the three peaks cyclocross race
(Image credit: Andy Jones for Future)

Cycling is an activity, or sport, you can enjoy at any age. Fitness writer Hannah Reynolds has been speaking to cyclists in their 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, bringing tips, advice and inspiration from cyclists who are still pedalling as the decades progress.  

How does a rider stay motivated to keep turning the pedals as middle age calls? According to age group Gravel World Champion, Helen Jackson, “cycling is not an obsession, it’s a requirement.” With no coach or training plans, she puts her success down to years of consistent riding. 

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