The Enduring Allure of the Long Ride: Why Cycling Remains a Lifelong Pursuit
For over half a century, the simple act of pedaling has been a constant in one cyclist’s life, a habit that transcends mere exercise and becomes a vital source of mental and emotional wellbeing. Despite moments of frustration and self-doubt,the allure of the open road – and the benefits it provides – consistently outweigh the drawbacks.
Cycling,at times,can feel like a curious undertaking. “There are,of course,times when I pause and wonder: ‘Why the hell am I doing this?'” the cyclist reflects,yet acknowledges the inherent pull to continue,even when logic suggests or else. this internal dialog is a familiar companion on long rides, a testament to the complex relationship between mind and body forged through decades in the saddle.
The benefits extend far beyond physical fitness. While acknowledging the physical exertion, the cyclist emphasizes that the true reward lies in the mental clarity and emotional balance achieved through riding. it’s a practice that helps to “focus, wander, breathe,” and ultimately, nourish the soul.
One particularly challenging ride, undertaken on a random Saturday in August – 50 days after a 55th birthday – illustrates the unpredictable nature of the pursuit. A seemingly innocuous forecast of a 10% chance of rain and a gentle southerly wind quickly devolved into a battle against strong gusts and a downpour that exceeded expectations. closing in on the 100km mark, the cyclist found themselves questioning the very logic of their endeavor.
The internal struggle manifested in a series of frustrated outbursts. “What are you doing!?” the cyclist exclaimed, punctuated by the rhythmic cadence of the pedals. The conditions deteriorated further, with a rough road surface becoming increasingly slippery and a sudden squall transforming the tailwind into a headwind. the experience culminated in a harrowing moment when a semi-trailer thundered past, spraying a wave of muddy grime over the cyclist.
Despite the ordeal,the cyclist maintains a pragmatic acceptance of discomfort. “I don’t care if I get wet while riding. It happens,” they state, highlighting a resilience born from years of experience. the ability to adapt and persevere, even in the face of adversity, is a hallmark of a lifelong cyclist.
At 55, the cyclist finds themselves enjoying the sport more than ever before. This newfound appreciation isn’t merely about physical prowess, but a deeper connection to the activity itself. While acknowledging the aches and pains that accompany aging, the bike offers a unique sanctuary. “Even with a pinched nerve, I’ve felt more agreeable on the bike than walking down the street,” they observe.
The benefits extend beyond physical comfort. Cycling provides a crucial outlet for mental wellbeing, offering a space for introspection and a sense of freedom. It’s a practice that allows for a heightened awareness of the present moment,noticing subtle details – like the nuances of a favourite song – that might otherwise go unnoticed.
However, the cyclist acknowledges that even small frustrations can accumulate and impact momentum. A gust of wind, a sudden downpour, a heavy vehicle, or even nagging hunger can all contribute to a sense of discouragement. But with age comes a greater capacity for calm assessment and the ability to overcome these challenges.
Ultimately, the enduring appeal of cycling lies in its ability to provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It’s an “addiction that has sustained me for over 50 years,” a habit that has become inextricably linked to identity. It doesn’t always make sense, and it can be profoundly frustrating at times, but it remains a healthy and rewarding pursuit.And that’s why, after all these years, the cyclist continues to ride.
Pro tip: embrace the discomfort. Years of cycling teach you to except the inevitable challenges and find resilience in adversity.
Reader question: How do you stay motivated on days when you really don’t feel like riding? – The answer lies in remembering the mental and emotional benefits that outweigh the initial reluctance.
Rob Arnold joins BA as a contributor, in a full-circle move, having started his career with the title some 25 years ago. In between, he’s run his own media company, Ride Media, and earned a reputation as one of Australia’s foremost cycling journos.
