HOW CYCLING CHANGED MY LIFE... A switch of careers saw Maryjane Watson shed over five stone
NOW 9st 10lb (63kg) THEN 16st (101kg)
WHAT WAS LIFE LIKE BEFORE THE BIKE?
Ten years ago I had a clinically obese BMI (36.1) but changing jobs and cycling four miles to work and back every day changed all that. My diet has never been particularly bad, just that I ate too much of it. Cycling meant I was moving more, increasing my muscle mass and metabolic rate. I cut my portion sizes and ate more protein. I only eat complex carbs ahead of a long ride.
HOW DID CYCLING CHANGE YOUR LIFE?
Without my bike I’d be hounded with medical conditions - I still have high blood pressure from the obesity. Cycling also kept away the darkness of depression I suffered when my children left home.
WHAT DO YOU RIDE?
Well, I’m 5ft 6in but with a 31in inside leg, so I got a bike made for me by Hewitt Cycles in Preston. It’s fantastic with a short top-tube, Shimano 105 groupset with ratios for hill work, Enigma disc brakes and a SON 28 dynamo, which is perfect for my lights and GPS.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU RIDE?
I’m a member of Audax UK - distance over speed is what I yearn for – so I ride a lot on the Isle of Man, where I live, and occasionally in the UK. The Isle of Man is home to inspirational cyclists such as Lizzie Holden and Anna Christian of the Drops team. Last year I averaged 1500km a month and even rode the 1400km London-Edinburgh-London audax. I managed 861km before falling asleep and off the bike! I intend to have another go. Thanks to fatladattheback.com for putting us in touch with Maryjane.
TOP TIPS
Add more protein to your plate, or use a protein shake. I use a vegan one, Sun Warrior, it tastes lovely and keeps the ‘munchies’ at bay.