Buy a bicycle and use it!

I’m so glad I did this I am having a great time cycling around and I even managed to get uphill woo! I think it’s helping me to regulate my breathing, and if I keep it up then my overall fitness should improve as well.

Last weekend I rode my new bike for the first time. It was lovely weather, the air was nice and fresh, and I actually enjoyed myself. I was a bit wobbly and very bad at turning corners but my boyfriend was cycling with me and ‘supervising’ and I did alright except for getting a sore butt from the saddle. Once I’ve really got the hang of it I’ll be cycling for fun throughout the summer, and hope to get fitter as well.

I’m halfway there, my shiny new bike was delivered at the weekend. There is so much extra bits & pieces that I have to buy to go with it now: lights, a lock, helmet, mudguards… I hope it will be worthwhile, I haven’t ridden a bike in years.

I ride it downtown sometimes. Sometimes I almost get hit. Sometimes I get yelled at. Sometimes people run out in front of me. I make it sound so carefree, don’t I?
But there is truly nothing like the wind in your helmet and a bell under your palm. PLus it beats trying to find parking any day of the week!

I’m planning to get myself a bike in the hope that it will stop me from being late! I don’t have a car and I usually end up walking everywhere. I figured that using a bike to get around could save me a bit of time, and will provide a different form of exercise than just walking. I’ve seen one I like and will order it soon.

In order to accomplish this, I need to:

1. Get my partner to trade in his spare one.
2. Go to a bicycle store and find one that fits.
3. Buy a helmet, a lock, and some reflective gear.
4. Ask my landlord about keeping the bike in the backyard (e.g., how seriously should I take those “beware of dog” signs?)

Ultimate goal:

To overcome my fear of death by Toronto traffic, to get more fit, to explore more, and to spend more quality time with my iPod, outside.

Mental notes:

Make it a note to stay away from busy commercial areas. You’ll be less freaked out and less likely to gaze longingly into the unfamiliar, untraversed cafes and shops. Besides…you can always jog into them later.