From inefficient rider to multi-day tour finisher.

Wendy decided to take on the Channel to the Med cycling tour alongside her husband, Jim. The challenge coincided with Jim’s retirement and marked a new chapter for them both. Their goal wasn’t just to finish the tour, but to arrive fit, confident and able to enjoy the experience fully.

 READ MORE: Check out Jim’s Njinga transformation journey here.

 While Wendy had never followed a structured training programme before, she knew accountability would make the difference. She wanted to train properly, understand what she was doing, and build confidence in her ability on the bike.

‍ “I felt I would benefit from having a coach. I’d never done any systematic training before and wanted to learn.”

After being recommended Njinga by friends who had completed a similar challenge, Wendy committed to the programme.

 Training with Njinga

From the outset, Wendy identified her biggest limitation: inefficiency. She felt she was working hard for limited return, lacked power and speed, and often doubted herself on the bike.

Training with Togo through Njinga’s Elevate programme introduced structure where there had previously been guesswork. Wendy followed a clear weekly plan, combining virtual bike sessions, in-person technique work, and off-the-bike strength, mobility and nutrition support.

She particularly valued the pedal technique sessions, learning to clip in confidently, and the on-demand strength and mobility work, which soon became a regular part of her routine.

 “I found Togo extremely knowledgeable and honest. He gave clear advice on what I needed to do to improve.”

‍The transformation

As the weeks progressed, Wendy began to see tangible changes. Her power and speed improved, her efficiency increased, and her confidence grew alongside her fitness.

Most importantly, the structure gave her momentum. She felt healthier both physically and mentally, became more motivated to hit her training targets, and made small but meaningful changes to her diet to support her riding.

 “Having a structured weekly plan made a massive difference. I knew exactly what was expected of me, and I worked to that plan.”

By the time Wendy and Jim set off on their cycling tour, she felt fitter and stronger than she had in years – and was able to enjoy the challenge rather than simply endure it.

Rating the Njinga experience

Wendy describes the programme as demanding, but effective. The expectations were high, the training challenging, and the time commitment significant – but the results spoke for themselves.

She credits the combination of structured training, expert coaching and comprehensive off-bike support for helping her build a stronger, more sustainable cycling foundation.

“It was a hard process to follow, but without it I would never have enjoyed our cycling trip as much as I did. It gave me so much confidence and self-belief.”

Click here to find the best Njinga programme for you.

What’s next?

Cycling has now become a long-term part of Wendy’s lifestyle. Strength, mobility and stretching are embedded in her routine, and she approaches new challenges with a level of confidence she didn’t have before.

 “I felt fitter and stronger doing the challenge than I had felt for years.”

This could be you!

Like Wendy, you don’t need to be an experienced cyclist to benefit from coaching. If you want accountability, structure and the confidence that comes from training properly, the right programme can make all the difference.

Book your free 15-minute coach call with Togo and discover how Njinga can help you prepare for your next challenge.

Looking for more inspiration? This 49-year-old mum returned to cycling after 25 years and took on LEJOG!