Life Lessons I've Learned Whilst Riding A Bike

I’ve been spending a significant amount of time on my bike lately, more so over the past two weeks. Not only is it good exercise, it is also a fantastic way of getting around and discovering the city I love.

When I'm on a bike, I forget so much. I forget about my troubles. I forget about my never ending To Do list. And even though I'm watching my speed and distance, I often forget about the time.

There's a lot going on in my head when I'm riding, so much to focus on, so much is happening throughout the ride, it's hard to let my mind wander to the less enchanting situations currently in my life (and believe me they are there)

There's clarity which comes from all that focus. It's like therapy:- therapy that gets me out of my car and out of the gym, therapy that gets me into nature, therapy that burns 600 calories an hour, therapy that gives me great looking legs.

Beyond cycling, I've learned a few other things, as well. 

• Eat at least an hour before the ride.
• To pedal through the top of a climb.
• I can push myself to be better than I was yesterday.
• Two ponytails are cute, but one ponytail stays out of your face.
• Cyclists are good people who will stop to help a stranger.
• How to say Hello to strangers (this is massive for me)
• One water bottle is not enough.
• I can always find a cafe on my ride

• Sometimes I can't see the wood for the trees but I just need to stay on track and keep going 
• Riding with a friend keeps me going ... “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with a friend"
• Riding with a tracker (i.e. Strava) keeps me honest.
• When I ride, I'll experience pain in at least two places: my neck, and my butt ... I consider these valuable training for life ... In life I will come across people who will give me pains in both of these areas.

• Be aware of my surroundings ... whilst I can 'fly' over handlebars, I can't fly ... I am not Tigger ... I don't bounce well
• There are people who care about me, good people ... find them and trust they have my best interests at heart. They make life a lot better.

And the number one thing I've learned about riding a bike regularly.

• You forget how old you are when you're on a bike.

Despite the dangers, near misses, soaking clothes, ... the sense of freedom that comes with owning a bike never, ever leaves me. As the truer saying goes – “you’re only one bike ride away from a better mood”.