Embrace the Joy of Cycling: Cycling isn't just about logging miles or scaling hills; it's a journey towards a healthier lifestyle. As we track our progress through our cycling computers and apps like Strava and Challenge Hound, let's remember that each pedal stroke is a step towards improved physical and mental health. In our club, whether you're in the 18-39 Age Group or the 80-150, every ride is a testament to your dedication and resilience.
Set Realistic Goals: With our club's detailed statistics, setting realistic goals becomes more manageable. Whether it's increasing the number of rides per month, adding a few more miles, or tackling a steeper climb, use the data to guide your objectives. Remember, improvement is personal, and every small achievement is worth celebrating. Soon there will be additional BCI statistics that allow you to identify those achievements as compared to the previous year and enjoy a little personal party… or not… it’s up to you!
Foster Community and Support: We are “The Friendliest Bike Club in Orange County!” This year, let's make a continued effort to support and motivate each other. Share your experiences, offer advice, invite new members or simply lend an ear. A strong community fosters a positive environment.
…and Now for Something Completely Different:
• We all know that losing muscle mass and flexibility as we age is a given. While cycling allows us to maintain our leg strength, it doesn’t do much for the rest of our structural and muscular systems. Stretching and weight lifting (even light weights) never stop!
• In CA, you do NOT need a doctor’s prescription to go to physical therapy (PT). PTs now offer nutritional support, so easy and healthy weight management goals can be met. Sports-oriented PTs perform physical exams and review your history before offering custom nutritional, weight and flexibility programs. Your insurance will probably pay for it, and once you learn your program and techniques, you can do everything at home!
• For example: Bob Forster is the official PT of the LA Marathon and has over 42 Olympic gold medals with athletes such as Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Alison Felix. He is a cyclist, having ridden La Ruta https://racelaruta.com/en/events/la-ruta-en/ twice. He keeps these athletes in top condition so they can respond to their coaches’ demands and perform at a level that lets them win. Yet, Bob’s bread-and-butter clients are regular folks just like us.
• Visit these links to see what a high-end sports PT does for elite athletes and can do for you as well: https://phase-iv.com and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWUb3Q3BAUM . There are many sports PTs in SoCal.
Conclusion:
• Set realistic goals.
• Foster a supportive community.
• Try new things.
• Focus on mental health.
By doing the above, we can make this year better than the last. Let's ride into 2024 with hope, determination, and the joy of cycling at our side.
-Dick Brock, BCI Statistician
