But the trained chemical laboratory technician had discovered her passion. Initially as a hobby after work, she then focussed entirely on cycling and quit her job.
In hindsight, this was the right decision, as Spitz went on to enjoy a remarkable career. Olympic champion, world champion, 20-time German champion: she collected a string of successes, even in old age. Now, on Sunday, the "grand dame" of mountain biking will compete in her last race at the Marathon World Championships in Grächen at the age of 47. It will be her 36th participation in the World Championships.
"Nevertheless, I don't feel melancholy, as I have found the ideal time for me to end the chapter of competitive sport at the highest level," said Spitz, noting that "the motivation and fun for the hard training was no longer there". The sport of mountain biking has evolved and Spitz has helped shape the scene over the years.
In 2004 she won bronze in Athens, the crowning glory followed four years later in Beijing with the gold medal. In 2012, she won silver in London before she was unable to compete in her fifth Olympic Games in Rio due to a knee injury. She actually wanted to retire after Brazil, but she didn't want her career to end like that.
But Spitz is not only a power woman on the bike, she also has clear words when it comes to doping. The exceptional athlete has spoken out in favour of harsh penalties and has also caused offence among her mountain bike colleagues with her zero-tolerance stance. She was honoured by the IOC for this.
68 kilometres and 3000 metres of altitude still await Spitz on Sunday. "I'm going to give it my all again before I retire," she announces.
