After receiving an unexpected observation from a fellow walker that I was a noisy walking companion, a “thumper walker” was the precise phrase used. Obviously, I greeted it with a startled expression as I adjusted my hearing aids.
Who knew?
Despite this revelation, the complainant did commend my enthusiasm and energy. Which, on reflection, made sense of the “thumping” observation, given why people look startled when passing them on numerous tracks. Even on the odd occasion that they thought there were more people than just me, I felt a strange comment at the time. The truth is, I was scaring the living daylights out of the quieter individuals who crossed my path.
Recently, I read an article stating that, in no uncertain terms, cycling, my other love alongside Les and walking, is better for me. Most of us know that the answer lies in the elegant biomechanics (which still applies to those over 60) of how our bodies interact with this two-wheeled machine. No surprise.
Kissing the tracks with wheels
What’s a girl to do? How do I become, on occasion, kinder to my walking fraternity’s nervous systems?
All it took was a little overthinking and a bit of effort; I’ve unearthed my neglected bicycle, affectionately known as the “green machine,” from our shared apartment shed. As I wheeled her out, I could almost hear the wheels squealing with delightful anticipation. With more momentum, it shot into the sunlight; the squeal of delight from both of us was palpable as the wind whistled through its spokes. The cherry on top, so to speak, was finally having the weight of my posterior resting on its back tyre.
For many, the decision to cycle is a no-brainer.
When standing at your front door, facing a five-kilometre commute with no car or bus route available, you can choose between an hour-long walk or jumping on your bicycle and arriving in just 15 minutes, barely breaking a sweat. See what I mean, it’s truly a no-brainer, especially during the warmer months. The sheer convenience of cycling, the time saved, and the health benefits it offers are truly inspiring at times.
Share with Care – doing my part.
For me, the benefits of walking and being sweaty are always going to be seductive and a key part of my exercise routine. However, it was long overdue for me to put a working plan in place to incorporate more of the easier two-wheeled transportation options in the future. Ultimately, to restore the zen vibe on the track for a little while. Here are a few other basics that all of us can do to create good vibes: slow down (not that I would single out men over 50 in Lycra), yield to the left, keep dogs on a short leash, and be mindful of the overly inquisitive child. Keep the walkers on their toes by ringing your bell as you pass.
Most importantly, just get out there and move your butt doing what makes you happy inside.
Life at No. 22 