Lockdown life has encouraged me to start cycling after many years away from it. I wanted to keep upbeat and positive during the Covid-19 outbreak. Being outside is important to me, but meeting with my running club would require public transport. I can walk or run in my neighbourhood but that wasn’t enough.

I decided that I wanted to buy a bicycle as now was the perfect time to start cycling. It was difficult to find a bike online, as bike sales were soaring during the pandemic. Stores around the country saw a massive increase in demand and new stock was selling out immediately.

After eight weeks I finally managed to purchase a new bike. I started cycling around my neighbourhood with an old friend, who has been giving me tips and helping me build my confidence.

I’ve been enjoying bike rides on Wanstead Flats and the Olympic Park, large areas of open grassland and perfect for sports, picnics and enjoying nature.

What could be nicer in a very built-up area of London?

Probably one of the most bizarre places I’ve ever cycled in is the City of London Cemetery. Once through the arched entrance, the vastness of this space hits you. It has beautiful gardens and monumental statuary. It’s been a great, peaceful place to help me prepare for cycling on the road and practise some basic technique.

It’s been one of the best things I’ve done during the pandemic. Cycling has made me happy and it’s been liberating. Returning to cycling has also helped me conquer one of my fears. To jump in and relearn cycling successfully and confidently has been very rewarding on a personal level. I feel like a badass on my bike because I go from strong to challenged, focused to free in a matter of minutes.

Whenever I accomplish a tough, breathless climb and reach the top, I turn around to look back at the hill with a smile. I’ve made my best decision getting back on a bike.

What’s more badass than helping to save the planet? More people on bikes means cleaner air, cleaner water, and a healthier environment. Come on Newham!

Newham Cyclists is a local branch of the London Cycling Campaign, looking after cyclists’ interests by organising and advertising regular rides and campaigning on cycling issues in the Borough. More information in their website.

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