Riding Out COVID-19

Words and photos by: Cécile Gambin

Like you, we’re passionate about riding BC. We love the outdoors and the euphoric feeling exercise gives us. But now is not the time to explore our beautiful province. Please stay local and follow the advice of health authorities. When the pandemic is over the trails will be waiting for us.

But how do we stay fit and keep our sanity? Most of us have an inherent need to go out, explore, discover new trails or ride a favourite one. But, as parks and trailheads around us close we need to find alternatives to satisfy our itch to ride and keep fit.

To get you started we’ve compiled a list to help. By no means will this work for everyone but, perhaps, during this pandemic we can find it in us to be open to new ideas:

1.  Get a plan of action – create a workout schedule. Whether you’re training for a race, or just want to keep fit, having a plan of action is key for success. What are your fitness goals and how can you achieve them?

2.  Stay accountable – finding it hard to work out on your own? Have a friend or family member help you stick to your schedule. Remotely, if they aren’t house mates.

3.  Online communities – there are plenty of general (non-bike) workout sessions you can join or get together with your friends for a virtual workout.

4. Online Group Rides – join like minded cyclists for online group rides. Perfect for the racer or the recreational rider in you.

5. Virtual spin classes – some spin studio’s offer this as an alternative

6. Indoor Trainer and Rollers – dust off the trainer and go retro by watching one of the original mountain bike videos, a dedicated indoor cycling workout video, or an old favourite movie

7. Hit your homemade gym – stretch, skip rope, lift weights – whatever it takes to get your heart pumping.

8. Go for a hike, or a brisk walk alone or with family members and keep your distance of other hikers and respect any local trail closures.

9. Fix a Trail – check with your local trail group first. If it’s a go, grab a shovel, a rake and start cleaning the trails. Ask them what is needed and keep your social-distance in check.

10. Give your body a rest.