7th May

Today was May Bank Holiday but Mary and Lucy were working all day so I had entertain myself for 12 hours. I decided a few days ago that I didn't want to just sit in front of the TV or spend all day surfing the net or reading a book. The weather forecast was not so good but this morning turned out to be quite bright although a bit breezy, so I decided to do a longer than usual cycle ride. About a week ago I rode from Knaresborough to Brimham Rocks and then on to the outskirts of Pateley Bridge before heading back home. So this week I decided to repeat the ride which is about 22 miles in distance. Today the ride seemed easier, perhaps because I knew I could complete it and my fitness is improving, and I did it in 2 hrs 35 mins, about five minutes faster than last week's run. I arrived home just after 12.30pm, had lunch and felt I could justify having a lazy afternoon.
It's funny, but as a child, in fact right up until last year, I never enjoyed cycling. I always found it too painful and difficult. But having made a careful decision over the type of bike I bought and setting up the seat height properly has made all the difference. I guess the first few rides last summer were the most difficult but now I can get to work quickly and easily despite having to climb the hills that surround Knaresborough. After buying the bike I also purchased a rack and a couple of panniers which now carry substantial amounts of books, papers and clothes when I cycle to work.
The bike is a Gary Fisher mountain bike but it has smoother street tyres for easier acceleration.
Maybe in the coming weeks I will add on some mileage and do an even longer ride up into the Yorkshire Dales. The advantages of riding a bike are that it keeps me fit, reduces wear and tear on the car, and is the sort of low impact exercise that reduces wear and tear on me as well.