Embarking on a journey from full-time physical therapy technician to professional cyclist and online educator, Blue Ridge Coaching Co. Emma Langley's founder shares her story of inspiring resilience and adaptability. As the pandemic brought racing to a standstill, an unexpected surplus of time and energy prompted a pivotal decision: to channel a background in Kinesiology into the realm of endurance coaching. With the support of loved ones and a newfound entrepreneurial spirit, what began as a pandemic-era venture evolved into a deeply fulfilling passion. Today, Emma not only pursues her passion for racing but also dedicates time to coaching and guiding others towards their own triumphs.
What motivated you to start Blue Ridge Coaching Co.?
In 2019, I pivoted from working full-time as a physical therapy technician to a part-time, online teaching position in order to train and race full time (bike racing at the elite level entails traveling all across the country for races, as well as putting in hours and hours of training, and recovering). However, once the pandemic hit the following year, all racing was on hold and I found myself with a surplus of time and mental energy.
I majored in Kinesiology at The College of William and Mary and was eager to put my hard-earned college degree to good use, so I figured why not give endurance coaching a try. I’ve never considered myself to be particularly entrepreneurial, but with the encouragement of friends and family, I took the plunge and started my own business! What started as a means to keep myself afloat during the pandemic has turned into a true passion; being a professional athlete means I have to spend so much of the day thinking about me and making decisions that are most beneficial to myself, so it’s always such a great feeling to also be able to devote time and energy to others and watch them achieve their goals.
What has been your greatest challenge?
Leaving the stability of a full-time job to pursue a career in professional cycling, which is characteristically very unstable, has been both my greatest challenge AND triumph. :)
Looking back, would you do anything differently?
No, because every mistake or hiccup I encountered along the way truly was an essential learning experience.
How did you get started in professional cycling?
I grew up swimming competitively, then transitioned to triathlon in college. I absolutely loved triathlon, however we did not have a very active Tri Team at William & Mary. We did, however, have a cycling club, which quickly became my main social circle and it wasn’t long before I was encouraged to try my first cycling road race. I was hooked, and eventually realized that I no longer loved swimming and running as much; I just wanted to ride my bike! I credit collegiate cycling as the primary reason I started bike racing, and I chased my dream of becoming a professional ever since.
What do you enjoy most or least about being a professional cyclist?
My passion is my profession, which is a privilege I don’t ever take for granted. I feel grateful that I get to spend every day doing what I love.
Any tips, tricks, or lessons learned?
I suffered a lengthy back injury last year, and learned SO much about myself, how to rehab a complex injury, and how much community means to me - they’re there to share in your victories, and support you in your times of difficulty.
What is your favorite milestone?
Winning the USA Cycling Elite Road Race National Championship in 2022.
I still have many goals I would like to achieve as a professional cyclist. The first is to compete in the 2028 Olympics. A few others are to return to the UCI Elite Road World Championships to represent Team USA, win the general classification of two other elite North American stages races called Redlands Bicycle Classic and Tour of the Gila, and encourage more people to ride (whether just for fun or to race).
Do you use the Capital Trail in your training or coaching?
Absolutely! The Capital Trail is some of the most impressive infrastructure I have ever seen for bikes, and I am so grateful that we have it.
IS THERE A FAVORITE SECTION THAT YOU ENJOY THE MOST?
Especially because of spending several years as an undergrad in Williamsburg, I love a “Cap2Cap” roundtrip trip from Richmond to Williamsburg and back. I also love the approach back into Richmond where the city skyline comes into view - always makes me smile and proud that Richmond is my home.
emma’s Closing thoughts
Just a note to everyone to HAVE FUN and BE SAFE. The only two requirements of every adventure :)
For more information on Blue Ridge Coaching Co. visit blueridgecoachingco.com
Thank you, Emma, for allowing us to share your inspirational story! Best of luck as you pursue and achieve your goals!
