“On your left”

Like spring this year, I am a late bloomer.

Just as we enjoy the explosion of life and colour when a tardy spring finally arrives, exploring new fitness opportunities later in life enhances the wonder at the possibilities the new season could bring.

Senior citizen cycling

Although I rode a bike as a child, it was not until I was 53 that I walked into a cycling shop as an adult.

It did not take long to discover I had forgotten a few skills. I fell over at stop signs. I toppled going uphill. It took some practice, but as I now sneak up on official senior citizen status, my three favourite words are a very loud “on your left” as I hurtle past another cyclist on the way down a hill.

Cycling is not just a pleasant way to get from point A to point B; it can also be an absolute blast.

Life lessons learned on my bike

• You don’t have to go fast, you just have to go.
• You will fall. Everyone does.
• Everyone looks silly in spandex.
• The best routes are the ones you have not yet ridden.
• Climbing hills is hard, but well worth the effort.
• Use all your gears
• There really is an adventure around every corner.
• If you smell wild strawberries, stop and pick some.

Analysis leads to paralysis

Trying something new can be scary. Chances are, like me, you won’t pedal with the grace and synchronicity of a Tour de France peloton.

Don’t waste a minute worrying about how others see you. You are doing this for you.

As we weather the current pandemic, there is a phrase I have often heard that has never been truer. Life is like a bicycle: to keep your balance, you must keep moving.

By the same author: Outside our comfort zone (Click the image below)