Fem van Empel: A Journey from Pressure to Joy in Cycling

Introduction
Imagine reaching the peak of your sport—winning world titles, earning accolades, and reveling in glory. Now, picture feeling overwhelmed, like you’ve lost the joy of it all. This bittersweet twist is the recent story of Fem van Empel, the 23-year-old Dutch cyclocross champion, who almost walked away from cycling due to the heavy burden of perfectionism and pressure.

The Struggle with Perfectionism
Earlier this year, Fem found it tough to enjoy racing. Even though she had just bagged her third world title, she said the victory felt less like a celebration and more like a weight on her shoulders. “I never really enjoyed that title; people didn’t know how drained I felt,” she shared candidly. This feeling of being lost didn’t come out of the blue. Fem explained, “I was more of an athlete than a person.” The endless cycle of training, nutrition, and worrying about being perfect took a toll on her mental health.

Feeling burned out, Fem decided to take a break in March. “It was the best step for my mental health,” she admitted. This pause allowed her to step back from the intense training and constant competition. For about six months, she took stock of her life outside of racing, going on walks and indulging in ice cream—simple pleasures she often denied herself.

Rediscovering Joy
During her break, Fem started exploring things that truly made her happy. “I began to ask myself what I enjoy,” she said, reigniting her joy for baking, gardening, and being sociable. Talking to other athletes who had faced similar struggles helped her realize the importance of staying true to herself. She learned that while everyone has their opinions, the most important one comes from within.

After several months, Fem returned to racing on September 14, 2023, at the La Choralis Fourmies Féminine. She finished third in the Dutch Gravel National Championships soon after. The excitement of racing again reminded her of why she loved cycling.

Original Commentary / Value
Fem’s story teaches us all a valuable lesson: it’s okay to take a break. Cycling can be physically and mentally demanding. Don’t hesitate to step back if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s switching up your routine or finding joy in other activities, it’s important to maintain your mental health.

Conclusion / Takeaway
Fem van Empel is gearing up to make her cyclocross debut in the 2025-26 season wearing her rainbow champion jersey, determined to rediscover her joy in the sport. “I’m going to enjoy it immensely,” she said, reflecting on the lessons learned from her time away. Her journey reminds us that happiness is as crucial as any race. So, grab your bike and remember: it’s all about enjoying the ride!

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