HOW CYCLING CHANGED MY LIFE…
Chris Jones, 52, from Morecambe, Lancashire transformed his life, health and weight by taking to two wheels just a few years ago…
THEN 17st NOW 11st 6lb HOW WAS LIFE BEFORE THE BIKE?
“In 2016 I was overweight and had been diagnosed with COPD (a group of lung conditions) at my asthma medication review. I joined a gym in a bid to get lighter and fitter and to make up for 30 years of debauchery! But I found it dull and uninspiring.”
WHAT GOT YOU INTO CYCLING?
“My employer at the time began a Cycle to Work scheme in the summer of 2016 and that was the catalyst for me. I bought a Boardman hybrid and although my first ride killed me – it was only four miles – I was hooked! I made all the mistakes that a newbie makes, wearing underwear with my cycling shorts, etc, but I loved it!”
HOW HAS CYCLING CHANGED YOUR LIFE?
“Four months after that first ride I bought a Carrera road bike and gradually increased my time and distance in the saddle. In spring 2018 I joined the local Fat Lad at the Back (FLAB) social ride group and rode with other people for the first time. I began leading rides every weekend later that year as a FLAB ‘Flampion’ (group ride leader) and met lots of great people, many of who are now good friends.”
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS TO DATE?
“In less than four years I’ve gone from 17 stone and getting out of breath walking up the stairs to riding more than 300km a week. I’ve climbed seven of the top 100 climbs including the highest paved road in Britain, Great Dun Fell. I lost five stone in weight, rode four 100+ mile rides in 2020 and became the Chief Flampion (running FLAB’s social ride programme). One of the most rewarding things for me in that role is being involved in people’s journeys from being a beginner.”
WHAT ELSE DID YOU DO TO LOSE WEIGHT?
“I’m a big fan of cooking and recently converted to vegan. Before that I had started to eat healthier without actually cutting treats out completely. After all, part of the appeal of a bike ride is the midride cake and coffee. I also do home yoga for general core strength and flexibility using an app on my phone and following the tutorials.”
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?
“To do the Coast to Coast in a Day – the June 2020 event was cancelled because of Covid-19. During lockdown I’ve been riding with a cycling buddy – Christine, who I met through FLAB – or alone. I hope to go on a cycling holiday, to ride the Western Isles of Scotland and Mallorca. Cycling 15,000km is the goal for 2021.”
GET IN TOUCH...
Has cycling changed your life? Email us at cyclingplus@immediate.co.uk