Finding My Cycling Confidence Again (in the Middle of London!) 🚦

When I was eight, I thought I was a professional cyclist. My little purple bike with handlebar tassels took me everywhere - around the cul-de-sac, racing imaginary friends, ringing my bell proudly. I was fearless.

Fast forward to adulthood, and cycling had completely disappeared from my life. Buses, commutes, and busy schedules replaced afternoons on two wheels. But this year I decided it was time to get back on the saddle.

I thought it would be easy - just hop on a bike and go, right? Wrong. My first ride back was in London, and honestly, it was terrifying. There were cars, buses, impatient taxis, roadworks, and a sea of cyclists who all seemed to know exactly what they were doing.

Being a beginner cyclist as an adult feels completely different from being a kid. You notice everything: traffic lights, potholes, whether you’re too slow, and whether you remembered to signal properly. It felt like everyone else was gliding along confidently while I was wobbling at traffic lights and second-guessing every move.

Here’s what’s helping me rebuild confidence:

• Start small: Ride in parks or quiet streets until you feel steady.

• Plan safe routes: Use apps like Komoot or Google Maps cycling mode. Google Maps is my fave though...

• Go at your own pace: Slow is fine!

• Celebrate progress: Every ride is a win.

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Cycling again is scary, yes — but also exciting. And I want to share this journey because I know I’m not the only one. If you’ve ever felt nervous about cycling, you’re not alone. That fearless kid version of you is still there — waiting to ride again. 💛

See you out there,

S x