Musings on eating & moving

Hard to think of something that fires our engines more than stories of folks who’ve dialed in their eating and moving, seen great things happen in their lives as a result, and provided some inspiration for others along the way.

None better in that category than the one we want to share today… the tale of Bike Like a Girl, an awesome group of cyclists setting out to become just the second 8-woman team to conquer the 3,020 mile (yes, thousand) Race Across America from Oceanside, CA to Annapolis, MD.

Soon as we heard about what they were doing, we wanted to support the cause however we could. Full disclosure, their quest was particularly resonant for this reporter, a father of three girls. We love too that deserving local non-profits will benefit from every mile ridden and it’s cool timing given our recent launch in Cali (LA). But most of all we dig the catalytic effect an effort like this can have on other folks waiting to set off on their own adventure big or small.  

So without further adieu, hear from Bike Like a Girl team member Erin Ferner, a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, mother, fitness community builder and all around awesome person as she shares more about the team and what motivates them, plus a few of her personal tips and favorite things.

Who are the women behind Team Bike Like a Girl?

Our team is made up of 8 strong and determined athletes. We all have families (we have 13 children between all of us!) and work professionally at a wide range of occupations: a registered dietitian; two nurses; a senior Navy officer and aviator; a Federal Public Defender; teacher; professional coach; and an artist/small business owner. Six of us live in Annapolis, the other two are in Reno with very strong Annapolis connections.

Tell us about the 3 charities the team is raising awareness (and funds) for in support of empowering girls & women through cycling. 

We believe that all three of these charities work in unique and powerful ways to empower people through cycling and we are honored to be racing for them:

• Bike Advocates for Annapolis and Anne Arundel County - an amazing local organization that helps keep the roads safe for cyclists so we can all make it home to our families after each ride.
• Women’s Cycling Association - a great group that is helping to grow the sport of women's cycling.
• World Bicycle Relief - an amazing organization that helps mobilize people through the Power of the Bicycle. It provides bikes for students, healthcare workers, etc. in Africa.

How does the team handle the constant balancing act of training and life?

It takes an amazing support system from our family, friends, and each other to get everything in: training, work, family time. It's a balancing act and rarely does it ever go smoothly or as planned - but we keep a positive attitude and a good sense of humor. Sometimes it takes waking up before the sun or fitting in training between the cracks of time throughout the day.

We all have families (I have a 4 year old and 2 year old myself), so we just do our best to make it all work and be where we need to be - and sometimes that means showing up places a little sweaty. We are committed to our goal and understand that big dreams sometimes take sacrifices. We truly love being on our bikes so that makes training fun for us. So many people believe in us and that keeps us going even on the toughest of days.

Erin's Tips:

Got a nutrition tip for someone training for an event or simply looking to improve their engine?

Get to know your body and find what works for you in order to perform and feel your best. Everyone is so vastly different and what works for one person nutritionally, might not work for another. Generally, eat real whole foods; fuel your body with quality ingredients and know what you are eating (read labels). Limit processed food. Try making meals and snacks yourself; be adventurous and creative in the kitchen. Drink water and stay hydrated!

Got a tip for a newbie biker who’s intimidated to take on a race but wants to start riding?

Even the most experienced cyclist was a beginner at some point. Don't be afraid to take that first step. Make it fun - grab some friends and your bikes and just start pedaling. Take in the moments together! You don't need to race to ride. You will be surprised the places your bike can take you and the memories it can help create.

Erin's Favorite Things: