Stronger in retirement: 1400 km challenge.

As Jim approached retirement, he and his wife Wendy decided to take on a physical challenge together. They signed up for the Channel to the Med cycling tour.  

With more time available and a shared goal in mind, they wanted to train properly – not just to complete their cycling tour, but to do so confidently and enjoy the journey.

READ MORE: Wendy’s Njinga transformation journey.

Jim’s motivation was clear, but he knew his limitations. Strength, general fitness and cycling technique needed work, and weight loss was unavoidable.

 “We wanted to be able to complete the challenge with confidence – and enjoy ourselves while doing it.”

A personal recommendation led them to Njinga.

 Training with Njinga

Training with Togo through Njinga’s Elevate programme introduced Jim to a more analytical, data-driven approach than he’d experienced before. Sessions were structured, progress was measurable, and performance improvements were visible week by week.

Togo’s coaching style suited Jim well: direct, honest and focused on outcomes.

 “Togo is straight-talking – both positive and negative – and that really worked for me.”

Meanwhile, virtual bike sessions and performance tracking became key motivators, particularly for Jim’s competitive side.

The transformation

The results were clear. Over the course of the programme, Jim lost 10kg, significantly improved his strength and fitness, and saw consistent performance gains across his rides.

His FTP climbed from 176 to 235 watts, and previous personal bests on Strava continued to fall.

‍ “Being able to see the improvement – both on the data and during the virtual sessions – was hugely motivating.”

What surprised him most was that much of the progress came without drastic dietary changes. The structure of the programme alone led to weight loss, improved strength and growing confidence on the bike. 

Rating the Njinga experience

Jim describes the programme as challenging but rewarding. The time commitment was greater than expected, and the financial investment, though significant, was worthwhile.

He values the breadth of the coaching approach, combining in-person sessions, virtual training, nutrition and mobility into one cohesive system.

 “I very much doubt I could have completed or enjoyed myself so much without the programme and Togo’s assistance.”

Find out more about Njinga’s Elevate.

What’s next?

Having completed the challenge, Jim is fitter, stronger and more confident than he was at the start. Cycling remains an important part of his routine, and he would happily recommend the programme to others willing to put in the work.

 “Expect to be pushed – but the results are worth it.”

This could be you!

With more time available to you, retirement is a wonderful time to focus on your cycling in a way that may have been unavailable to you before.

You may feel like you’re too old to think about PBs and transformations now. Not true! Structured coaching can help you go further and faster than you thought you could, while remaining injury free.

If you’re considering a big cycling challenge – or simply want to get fitter, leaner and stronger, you can do it now at any age with the proper support.

Book your free 15-minute coach call with Togo and find out how Njinga can support your goals.

Looking for more inspiration? Simon bounced back from a disappointing DNF to conquer Etape du Tour.

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