In this video, we delve into the world of cyclocross with Fem van Empel, the current world champion. We explore her recent struggles with perfectionism and the surprising thoughts of retirement she faced earlier this year.
Discover how she overcame these challenges and is now gearing up for the new cyclocross season. We’ll discuss her journey, the pressures of elite sports, and her return to racing, including her performance at the Dutch Gravel National Championships.
Join us for an inspiring look at resilience and the love of the sport!
Cycling champion Fem Vanmple’s journey has taken an unexpected turn and her recent revelations have left many fans intrigued. I was more of an athlete than a person. These powerful words from Van Emple herself shed light on a challenging period in her career. Vanmple, a three-time world cyclacross champion, has opened up about her struggles with the sport, admitting that she considered retiring earlier this season. The pressure to perform and her own high standards took a toll on her enjoyment of racing. I won that third world title, but it didn’t bring me the joy it should have. People might be surprised to learn that I’ve been struggling with the sport for quite some time. She shared her perfectionism, which drove her to meticulously research and optimize every aspect of her training, nutrition, and rest, became a double-edged sword. I’d question my readiness if any of these elements weren’t perfect. In hindsight, it was an unreasonable expectation, Vanmple explained. But here’s where it gets controversial. Should athletes prioritize enjoyment over perfectionism? Can they find a balance between pushing themselves to excel and maintaining a love for their sport? And this is the part most people miss. Vanmple’s decision to take a break from racing. It’s a bold move that many athletes might consider, but few actually take. After her break, Vanmple is back and ready for the new Cyclacross season. She finished third in the Dutch Gravel National Championships, a promising sign of her renewed passion for the sport. So, what do you think? Is it possible to maintain a successful career while also enjoying the journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below. We’d love to hear your perspective on this intriguing aspect of sports psychology.