Finding fitness and friendship through cycling in Aberdeenshire

Part of our Connecting Communities programme, the Bothy provides free support to help people walk, wheel, and cycle with confidence. Through group rides, bike maintenance workshops, and volunteering opportunities, it has helped many people, like Jim, discover the benefits of active travel.

Jim, a dedicated runner and community advocate, had spent years taking part in events like Parkrun, Ellon jogScotland, and even the demanding Ythan Challenge – an 11-13km multi-terrain race, complete with river crossings. But in 2020, Covid-19 lockdowns, combined with knee issues, forced him to take a break from running. His fitness levels declined, and he was searching for a new way to stay active.

That’s when he spotted a Facebook post about The Aberdeenshire Bothy’s led rides. Looking for a fresh challenge, he decided to give cycling a try.

Since joining the rides in 2022, Jim has become a regular participant, attending numerous events, talks, and bike maintenance workshops. He even trained as a volunteer Walk Leader, further supporting The Bothy’s active travel initiatives.

The regular group rides have been particularly transformative. Not only has Jim regained fitness—tackling hills that once seemed daunting—but he’s also reintegrated cycling into his everyday routine, using his bike for local journeys.

I love the whole atmosphere of the Bothy and the activities

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Beyond the physical benefits, the rides have provided Jim with something equally valuable: a sense of connection. He thrives on the camaraderie and "banter" shared with fellow cyclists, and he’s played a key role in growing the group. Whether promoting the rides locally, welcoming new members, or helping shape new routes, Jim’s enthusiasm has been instrumental in the success of the Bothy’s cycling activities.

Last summer, Jim made a triumphant return to Parkrun after a four-year hiatus—proof of the fitness gains he’s made through cycling. His story is a testament to how accessible community-led cycling initiatives can inspire people to embrace active travel, improve their wellbeing, and form lasting connections.

By turning to cycling, Jim didn’t just rediscover fitness—he found a new community. Read Jim’s incredible poem below to understand the true impact of The Aberdeenshire Bothy. 

I saw a post on Facebook and thought what’s not to like 
‘twas all about the outdoors and getting on a bike  
there was no age restriction so along I went 
Started with a bike exam to see what stuff I kent 
Next we had a bike test to see that all was well 
I had no problems with my bike as far as I could tell 
We first checked the front wheel and then it was the back 
And then that the chain itself had not become slack 
And then the handlebars followed by the saddle 
Finally the brakes, so stopping I could handle 
I then had to ride in circles behind Victoria Hall 
They were checking on my balance to see if I would fall 
There were about six newbies of mixed age and gender 
Apart from the leaders no one young and tender 
The ‘leaders’ of which I have made mention 
Are Emma and Anna and it is their intention 
To promote outdoor pursuits and this includes our cycling 
But maybe later to include some gentle hillwalking 
Funded by Cycling UK and ‘Eberdeenshire Cooncil’ 
I was to become their steady aged pupil 
The others would include Hilda, Bev and Lynn 
And others that sadly might not be back again 
We cycle off from Vicki Hall to do around 10k 
Lucky with the weather but would go ‘come what may’ 
We have been up the hill to Ulaw and out to Auchnagatt 
I suggested visting the hippo but then got asked ‘Where’s that?’ 
The hill going up to Ulaw was one of cycling pain 
Unless I have an ebike I’m not doing that again 
We visited a pyramid but no cycle to Luxor 
It was a surprise to some that we have one next door 
We cycled out the railway line one time and someone had a puncture 
Sorted by a group effort and the help of mother nature 
The nearby river provided us with the water that we seek 
To help find the bubbles from the inner tube leak 
Usually at the halfway point we stop and have a rest 
Our little legs tired with cycling two abreast 
The point of all my musings is not as a sycophant 
Remembering to keep good health should be a constant 
So to all those out there whether far away or local 
To help keep fit, get on a bike and foot upon a pedal 
You won’t break records or earn yourself a trophy 
But gain a feeling of doing something worthy 

And thanks to Anna and Emma of Aberdeenshire Bothy