Stephen Madden

About the Author

Stephen Madden is a seasoned writer and former editor at Bicycling magazine, where he honed his craft amid the high-octane world of endurance sports and athletic pursuits. Transitioning from cycling journalism to the gritty arena of CrossFit, Madden discovered a new level of physical and mental fortitude that reshaped his perspective on discipline and resilience. In his debut memoir, Embrace the Suck: What I Learned at the Box About Hard Work, (Very) Sore Muscles, and Burpees Before Sunrise – A Candid and Humorous CrossFit Memoir by a Former Bicycling Editor, he chronicles his transformative journey into the CrossFit community with unflinching honesty and wry humor. Through vivid anecdotes of dawn patrols, punishing workouts, and the camaraderie of the 'box,' Madden explores the universal themes of pushing limits, embracing discomfort, and finding joy in the grind. His writing bridges the gap between personal revelation and motivational insight, inspiring readers to confront their own challenges with grit and a smile.