Sometimes you choose a goal that's just exciting enough. Not because it's easy, but because something's nagging at you: this is what I'm going to do. This will be an adventure.
For Kerst Beuckens, that adventure became a Stoneman. And behind that challenge lies a story about structure, falling, getting back up, and above all: growth.
In this edition of Mountain Biker Speaks, you'll hear how an endurance athlete found his way on the trails, and what structure, coaching, and flow really bring him.
From triathlon to trail: performance and fun
Christmas comes from the endurance sports corner. Marathon skating, football, triathlon, sports where endurance is a given. For the past two years, he's been an avid mountain biker. And what immediately appealed to him?
It's being outdoors, enjoying nature, but also a certain amount of achievement. That combination makes it fun.
Christmas Beeches
So, mountain biking at Christmas is more than just a quick spin. He's focused on performance, he says. But not to break records, but to do his best and keep growing.
The pitfall: lots of motivation, little direction
His ambition helps. But it also brought problems. Before he started at PeakFlow MTB, he often did just a little too much. Not out of reluctance, but because he was so eager to move forward.
I did too much at the exact moment I shouldn't have. It was also difficult to determine a peak time
Christmas Beeches
This is familiar to many athletes. You think: extra effort = extra results. But without a plan, you lose track. And then all that hard work actually costs you energy.
Coaching: simple, clear and workable
At PeakFlow MTB, Kerst found the structure he needed. No complicated schedules, no distant guidance. Just a consistent rhythm, every week.
I complete training sessions according to a schedule, and coaching sessions are once a week. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
Christmas Beeches
That might sound simple, and it is. But that simplicity is precisely what makes it valuable. No fuss, no doubt. Just trust in the process.
What stands out is the personal weekly contact, a tailor-made schedule per week and working with TrainingPeaks.
Christmas Beeches
You'll notice it right away: stronger on the bike and off it
When we ask Kerst where he notices the biggest difference, he doesn't have to think long. On the trails, you notice it immediately. Your steering is smoother, you stay in control on descents, and you climb more efficiently. He also notices it in the cycling group.
I've made the most progress in strength and my core. The first training sessions with the cycling group on Thursday evenings were much easier than before.
Christmas Beeches
And even in the pool, he's more comfortable in the water. His whole body works more efficiently. Not because he's doing more, but because he's doing things smarter.
Your head plays a part too
PeakFlow isn't just about getting physically stronger. Your mindset also trains. Kerst noticed that too:
I have learned to talk to myself and not get stuck in a sad thought.
Christmas Beeches
That's what mental training is all about. Not trying to make everything positive, but rather bringing yourself back to what you can influence. Breathing, pace, focus. One thing at a time. Both during a climb and in everyday life.
What is flow for you?
We ask this in every edition of the Flow Report: what does flow mean? Because it's a word that evokes something different for everyone. For Christmas, it's crystal clear:
An invitation to look at your driving differently
For me, flow means relaxed driving, with steering and technique flowing smoothly.
Christmas Beeches
He clearly notices the difference between days when things go well and days when things feel difficult.
If you're good, things are going in the flow, and I'm not afraid of going too fast. That feeling is really great!
Christmas Beeches
That feeling of confidence in your equipment, your body and your choices is what many mountain bikers come back for.
Less unrest, more confidence
Perhaps the biggest difference is the peace Kerst now feels. Not because he wants less, but because he knows he's in a good place. You can't see that peace in numbers, but you can feel it, and that applies to those around him as well.
Once training is done, I don't feel the urge to do more than necessary. My wife, Lydia, can tell by looking at my body and exercising regularly that I'm doing well.
Christmas Beeches
Looking ahead: new goals, same motivation
Christmas is far from over. His original goal of riding the Stoneman in 10 hours proved just a little too ambitious, but he isn't giving up. He is going again this year, in Belgium. In addition, a three-day ultra-ride is on the schedule. The enjoyment of the process is clearly palpable:
I think I've set the bar a bit too high. I'm going to try again this year in Belgium. I think this is the way to stay fit and healthy. There are still so many wonderful things to do on the mountain bike.
Christmas Beeches
His experience has taught him one thing: long challenges require preparation. Whether you're just starting out or have been training for years, coaching can make all the difference. It can help you achieve your performance, maintain your peace of mind, maintain your rhythm, and enjoy your journey:
What he wants to share with others
Whether you're just starting out with mountain biking or have been riding for years, coaching isn't just for competitive riders or enthusiasts. It's specifically for everyone who wants to ride with more confidence, structure, and enjoyment. Kerst knows how valuable that is:
It's not wise to take on a 10-hour workout challenge on a whim. You need coaching. Someone to spar with you and keep an eye on you. It's a great coaching method, suitable for everyone's level.
Christmas Beeches
Keep learning, keep enjoying
Christmas shows us that growth isn't always about going faster, further, or harder. Sometimes it's about daring to make choices. About finding peace. About discovering what works for you.
And perhaps you recognize something in his story. A goal that's nagging at you. A moment when you think: this could be better, this could be more fun, this suits me.
Then you are exactly where you need to be: in the middle of your journey.
- Photo credits; Kerst Beukens
