by Regan Abramson, Brighton HS ’20
What a great cycling season we had! How unfortunate that they all have to come to an end. My biggest thought was, “What am I going to do with my life next? How can I stay somewhat involved with the cycling season?” I missed it so much. Another struggle during the winters in Michigan is staying active, and, with school in session, it can be hard to find the time to ride with someone. If you have a fat bike that can ride through snow and have time, by all means, ride it!
If you don’t have a fat bike to ride through the snow, you can work out at a gym and lift some weights or run on the treadmill. You can even join a team sport, like basketball, volleyball, hockey, indoor soccer, or, hey, an exercise bike! This is great if you enjoy the gym. I don’t enjoy the gym very much, so I prefer jogging, walking, or ice skating. I’ve never done this before, but I really want to try cross-country skiing through the woods. If you don’t like being outside or in a public building, or you are a couch potato like me sometimes, get off that couch during a tv commercial and do some squats, lunges, push ups, sit ups, etc. Go on YouTube and find some cycling workouts for the next season! I can’t wait!
My favorite parts of the cycling team were the wonderful teammates, coaches, and parents who were involved. Everyone is so caring about one another, and I made a lot of awesome friends, and I don’t make friends very easily. Everyone on the team seems to love the sport of mountain biking, and we all cheer each other on at the races whether or not we’re friends with each other. That’s what a team is, and it doesn’t get any better than that! My other favorite part is that unlike so many other sports, it’s okay to be a beginner. News flash, we actually want people on our team! You don’t have to try out! All you need is a bike, a helmet, and the urge to learn. The coaches will help you. They took me out on the trail all because I had a bike and wanted to learn the basics, even in the middle of the season, and then I joined the team the next one. Amazing!