I have a period of relative peace as a major client project came to an abrupt close in July. The last year has been very hectic and I have not felt that I have time to do anything other than work or deal with the numerous personal and family challenges that have popped up. I have had very little headspace for exercise or reflection and this has meant that I have spent very little time on the bike. I am not a natural athlete, but being on a bike is my happy place. I enjoy the physical effort and it does wonders for my mental health being out in the world. It helps me filter out the mental noise and chatter and reminds me of what is truly important.

I am always more motivated when I have a clear goal, so my target is over the next two months is to get fit enough to do Marriott’s Way in Norfolk - a relatively flat fifty mile return ride. I have a training schedule of at least three rides a week. For the first week, I will need to do at least 27 miles and this builds up to 100 miles for week eight.

I also know my “bike confidence” was shaken last year when I had a low speed crash that resulted in me banging my head (not ideal for someone who has already had a mini-stroke) and splitting my helmet. The only way I can change that mindset is getting back in the saddle more regularly. I am hoping that there is enough residual fitness left that this won’t be too much of a shock to my system. I also keep reminding myself that I could do 50 miles a day in the Lake District in 2016 when I did the Coast to Coast route.

I know very few people read this blog so this post is a way of going quietly public. Further updates to follow.