‘Get on a Bike’ initiative improves health and well-being
Deborah (not her real name) had been off work suffering from stress. She was feeling very low when her health worker suggested she might contact the Get on a Bike charity.
She takes up the story: “In my teenage years I’d had an accident on my bike where I had gone over the handlebars going downhill that had put me off cycling ever since. The Get on a bike ride leader got in touch, and we arranged to meet up for a cuppa and chat. This was a good ice breaker and a step closer to me getting on a bike.”
“The next step was to meet two ride leaders and try riding the bike they lent me. We cycled slowly to a café for a cuppa. On the way back I sped up and cycled off at speed whooping in delight at the fact I’d done it and how liberating it felt, breaking the invisible chains that had held me back for months.’
“I bought a bike and started cycling in my spare time. I would never have had the confidence to do this before. I’ve joined local groups and now have made new friends as well as finding a new hobby. I’m grateful to have been referred to Get on a Bike as it has been an anti depressant on two wheels as opposed to the anti depressants suggested by my GP. “
Sheila said: “Deborah is now looking to get back to work and is a great case study for the power of cycling and being out in the fresh air. We’re waiting with bikes and cycle helmets to welcome others, whether they just need a boost in self esteem or confidence, or a health improvement. Come and see if Getting on a bike works for you!”
You can be referred to the group by your GP or health professional, or you can simply message the team on the Get on a Bike face book page or email admin@getonabike.org.uk to arrange a chat, maybe over a coffee (we pay), and to see the bikes we have available and to try one for size.
To learn more about Get On A Bike or to join a guided ride:
visit Facebook: Get On A Bike
or email admin@getonabike.org.uk.