Consider a bicycle traveling at 15 miles per hour. Based on the cyclist’s effort, is that her intended speed?

More specifically, is something hindering her? Is the bicycle working properly? Do the wheels spin freely?

Would she be — with the same effort — traveling 20 miles per hour… except for some debris that’s binding one of the wheels, or a misaligned brake pad?

It’s a good idea to pause your ride from time to time. Assess the mechanics. Determine whether you’re working efficiently. Are there obstacles, or hindrances that slow your progress? Is a colleague creating drag? Is a family member pressing on your brake while you’re trying to accelerate?

Instead of pedaling harder — to the point of exhaustion — get the drivetrains in your life working properly. Correct the mechanics. Solve the problems that are locking up your wheels.

Then go, and pedal hard.