Tina’s inspiring return to cycling
Cycling UK’s Connecting Communities programme isn’t just about bikes – it’s about helping people rediscover independence, confidence and joy.
For Tina, 68, a lifelong cyclist whose active lifestyle was halted by an accident and a hip replacement, the programme offered a lifeline. Through tailored support and cycling sessions, Tina not only found the right bike for her needs but also regained her belief that cycling was still possible.
An active person all her life, Tina previously participated in mountain bike racing and triathlons. However, a cycling accident where she was blinded by the low winter sun, followed by another injury on her next attempt, left her shaken and uncertain about getting back on a bike. Her confidence took another hit after undergoing hip replacement surgery.
After an accident where I’d crashed after being blinded by the low winter sun, and my next attempt at cycling resulting in an injury, I’ve been really nervous about getting back on a bike, especially since my hip replacement
For Tina, returning to cycling was about more than just riding a bike. It was a way to maintain her health and fitness, rediscover her enjoyment of the sport, and regain independence for getting around her local area. However, she worried whether she’d ever be able to cycle again.
Through a combination of bike try-outs and tailored cycling sessions, Tina worked with a Cycling UK development officer to rebuild her confidence and find a bike that met her needs. Together, they explored options like e-bikes, which provided the support Tina needed to tackle East Lothian’s hills and headwinds.
The first e-bike I tried had a lightweight step-through frame. It was such a relief to know that I could do it – I could get on a bike and cycle. I wasn’t sure if it would ever happen again. [It] was awesome uphill and riding into headwind, which I find so hard around here
By riding with the development officer, Tina was able to talk through her concerns in a safe and supportive environment:
Riding with [the local development officer] enabled me to talk through my anxieties and concerns with someone I knew would be safe and accepting. I have increased in confidence and it has got me riding [again]
With support, Tina is now cycling regularly for everyday journeys such as errands and short trips. The experience has not only improved her fitness and health but also restored her confidence and joy in cycling.
This case study highlights the holistic approach taken by Cycling UK’s development officers to support individuals, enabling them to start or return to cycling and integrate it into their daily lives. For Tina, the programme has been simply the best, proving that with the right support, it’s never too late to get back in the saddle.
