In early 2024, I created a leap year–inspired ride called Carpe Diem, which quickly became one of my favorites. In that post, I mentioned how easily it could be adapted for a New Year’s theme by swapping out a few songs—and I finally did just that! The result? A reimagined profile that I taught yesterday to rave reviews. I’m thrilled to share it with you: Carpe Annum: Pedal Into Possibility.
You’re probably familiar with the phrase carpe diem, meaning “seize the day” in Latin. Few have explained it as eloquently as Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society:
“Carpe diem, boys; make your lives extraordinary!”
While carpe diem inspires us to make the most of today, carpe annum—”seize the year”—encourages us to expand that mindset and embrace the entire year ahead. This ride is about looking at the opportunities, challenges, and possibilities the new year offers and claiming them with confidence and determination.
Instead of focusing on just one day, this ride encourages you to seize a whole series of moments. Together, we’ll stake our claim on the year ahead and embrace the essence of a fresh start—a year brimming with opportunities to grow, achieve, and turn aspirations into reality.
As we pedal through each interval or climb, remember that the challenges we face on the bike are powerful metaphors for the challenges we encounter in life. The effort it takes to push through resistance, the determination to crest a climb, and the focus required to maintain your intensity all mirror the perseverance needed to achieve your goals off the bike. Each moment in this ride is a chance to strengthen not just your body, but your mindset.
Throughout our journey, you’ll be inspired by music that celebrates courage, perseverance, and living fully in the moment. From uplifting tunes that spark determination to driving beats that keep your energy high, each track is a reminder to stay present and boldly pursue your dreams.
This profile is designed to challenge you, with 30-second opportunities sprinkled throughout the ride to push a little harder, dig a little deeper, and seize the moment, even when you’re already working at a hard level. These bursts of effort symbolize the extra chances this new year brings—the moments that can make all the difference when we step into them with intention and enthusiasm—even if we hesitate at first.
This ride isn’t just a workout—it’s a celebration of possibility. As you guide your class through this journey, remind them that every pedal stroke is a chance to seize the year, embrace opportunities, and move forward with determination and passion. Carpe annum—seize the year and make it extraordinary!
So, saddle up, fellow adventurers! Let’s embrace the challenge, capture every opportunity, and make this year our most extraordinary yet. The journey awaits, and the time to seize the moment is now!