So you’ve signed up for a charity cycle ride, but you’d rather not tackle it alone. Training and completing a charity cycle ride in the company of friends is one of the best ways to remain motivated and driven. But some people will need a little convincing before they agree to a long-distance ride.

If your friends are lacking the motivation, these are some tried and tested methods to help get them on board. Once they start training and the race gets closer, you’ll be able to spur each other on, providing support, comic relief and motivation for those times when you feel like quitting.

Tap into their competitive side

Tap into their competitive side

Some friends and family members don’t want to think about being left behind. If you can tap into their competitive spirit, you’ll get them signed up in no time. Not only will they be determined to raise more money than you, they’ll also be determined to finish the race ahead of you. But remember, it doesn’t matter where you finish, just that you support each other to the finish line.

Remind them it’s for charity

If they’re looking for a way to be more charitable and selfless in 2025, you might be able to convince them to sign up for a charity bike ride with them. It will give them plenty of time to fundraise and focus on getting ready for the ride, which can be a very positive start to the New Year. These friends will be the easiest to enlist, as they’ll always be on the lookout for ways they can help others.

Focus on the health benefits

Focus on the health benefits

If you know a friend who would like to make their health a bigger focus in 2025, then a charity bike ride could be just the motivation they need. Once you’re signed up, there’s no choice but to train. It’s easily achievable for most people with a decent level of fitness, but this doesn’t mean you won’t want to do a bit of training in advance. It’s also the perfect excuse to hit a spin class or HIIT class at the gym together. 

Make it your hen/stag do

It’s an unconventional one, but why not break with tradition and make your hen or stag party a long distance biking challenge? Your friends might take a bit of convincing, but it could be a great way to bond and prepare for the next stage of your life. You’ll also enjoy the added bonus of being in the best shape of your life for your wedding! For those unwilling or unable to compete, you can promise to meet them at the finish line for pints and a trip to a spa to recover. This will ensure you don’t exclude anyone. 

Use it as an excuse to spend more time together

Use it as an excuse to spend more time together

If you’re drifting away from your friends and struggling to find the time to spend together, this could be just the thing you need to get everyone together. You can combine health and fitness activities with socialising, which will allow you to kill two birds with one stone. It’s the perfect excuse to get a whole group of friends together for something that is hugely positive – both for your health and for the charities you support.

Final thoughts on convincing friends to join you

Training for the event is the easy part; it’s convincing your friends to join you that will be the real challenge. But once they’re on board, you can enjoy the benefits of mutual support and camaraderie as you train for this incredible event.