Pedal, Pause, Heal: A Doctor’s Ride Toward Balance
Introduce yourself:
Hi I'm Beth Benish and I started road biking regularly at the start of COVID in Spring 2020. I am an Anesthesiologist in Denver & I really used cycling as a stress reliever.
As both a passionate cyclist and a practicing anesthesiologist, how do you manage to balance the demanding schedules of your medical career and your recreational cycling?
I ride to work almost every day & I utilize my random days off or postcall days to get on my bike. I’m also a weekend warrior & really look forward to a big weekend ride when I’m not working.
What first inspired you to take up cycling, and how did it become a significant part of your life?
My friend Leah talked me into buying a roadbike. The last 4 years, it has brought me significant joy & stress relief.
How has your medical knowledge as an anesthesiologist influenced your approach to recreational cycling, particularly in terms of health, wellness, and injury prevention?
I know the importance of cardiovascular health & how it’s tied into fitness. When so many of my patients were dying of Covid in 2020, I realized that optimizing my physical health would help me survive the virus. Working as a trauma anesthesiologist, I do think more about injuries particularly when descending down a mountain. I try to stay focused, avoid distractions & I probably use my brakes more than others.
What are some of your most memorable experiences or favorite places to cycle, and what makes them special to you?
I love Juniper pass to Echo Lake. You can’t beat that view. I also have a pretty memorable “bonk” while riding to Ward from Boulder.
Both medicine and recreational activities come with their own set of challenges. Can you share an instance where you faced a significant challenge in either field and how you overcame it?
I care of very severely injured patients regularly. I lean on my experience, my extensive reading, & focus on solving problems & remaining calm.
What are your future goals in both your cycling adventures and your medical career? Are there any specific rides or journeys you're aiming to undertake?
Looking forward to lifelong riding. I am excited to do RAGBRAI (bike ride across Iowa) again this summer. I look forward to trying the Copper Triangle in August.
Are there any skills or lessons you've learned from cycling that have positively impacted your work as an anesthesiologist, or vice versa?
Not really but cycling is a nice way to relax after a stressful week at the hospital.
What keeps you motivated to continue cycling for joy alongside your demanding career? Do you have any role models or sources of inspiration?
Cycling with friends.
What advice would you give to fellow medical professionals or students who are interested in taking up cycling as a recreational activity?
It’s a great activity, especially around Denver. Don’t get intimidated by climbing. I started by just riding up for an hour then turning around, no pressure to reach the very top. Eventually I built enough stamina to get to the top. Eat something every 45 minutes (and obviously hydrate)
How do you ensure you maintain a healthy work-life balance, and what activities or routines help you unwind and recharge away from the operating room and your bike?
Socializing with friends & traveling keep my life balanced.