For Fanny Brosseau, cycling began the way it does for many riders: with hesitation and uncertainty. The fear of unclipping at the wrong moment, of losing the wheel in front, of not keeping up the pace. Like most beginners, those first group rides were filled with moments of doubt. 

Eight years later, the sport has become something far more meaningful. Through cycling, she discovered a sense of confidence and strength she now helps other women build for themselves. 

Through coaching women’s PowerWatts at Le Club, Fanny began to see cycling differently. What once centered on her own progression shifted toward supporting other riders. Alongside her racing with the Messorem Racing Team, coaching became a way to guide women through the same doubts she once faced herself. Helping others find their place on the bike revealed just how important women-focused riding environments are in cycling.  

“Coaching showed me spaces like this for women aren’t just nice to have: they are necessary.” 

When women train together, something changes. The atmosphere feels lighter, and a strong sense of camaraderie quickly takes shape. Riders push themselves without the pressure or judgement that can sometimes accompany mixed groups.

Each session becomes a place where progress feels shared. Riders celebrate each other's accomplishments, whether it be completing a difficult interval, finishing a demanding session, or simply showing up on days when even clipping in feels like the hardest part. 

“When it’s only women, the dynamic changes. There’s a powerful sense of support between everyone, and it really becomes a girls’ gang that never leaves anyone behind.” 

Within that uplifting environment, improvement happens naturally. Strength builds collectively as riders continue to push forward together. Knowing the women around you are both on your side, and by your side, creates a rhythm that keeps both the motivation and the community alive. 

For women who hesitate to begin cycling, her advice is simple: take the first step. 

Join a group ride, as she once did, even though it might mean stepping outside your comfort zone. Although the idea can feel intimidating at first, that decision became one of the most rewarding choices Fanny could have made. The benefits, she explains, far outweigh the initial fear.

“What I want most is to help women build trust in themselves. To trust that they can improve, push through difficult intervals, and try things they’ve never done before. Seeing that realization is the most rewarding part of coaching.”

Cycling, like any skill, is something that develops gradually over time. Abilities sharpen, confidence grows, and the fears that once felt overwhelming slowly begin to fade with every session.  

For many women, the real turning point comes when they realize that they are capable of far more than they once believed. 

For Fanny, witnessing those moments where hesitation turns into certainty remains the most rewarding part of her coaching. In creating space where women can grow stronger together, she continues to inspire a new generation of riders to believe that they belong on the bike.

Photos courtesy of Fanny Brosseau.