“I’m so happy to be here!” Jamie said as soon as two visitors sat down with her in the lobby of Full Psycle indoor cycling studio during a break from her training session. She was joined that day by four of her fellow Envision Unlimited program participants plus one staff member, as well as members of the community, and – last but not least – their class trainer and studio owner David, who is beloved by the cyclists.
Jamie’s ebullience on and off the bike is infectious, but her journey hasn’t always been easy. Although she had ridden a tricycle as a kid, it was unfortunately stolen. Jamie hadn’t been on a bike in years, and she knew she needed to focus on being healthier. Jamie has been going to Envision for seven years, and last year was encouraged to explore the Buddy Biking program by Kristen Noonan, director of the Westtown Center where Jamie spends her weekdays.
Buddy Biking brings physical activity and community interaction to participants at Westtown, and Jamie was soon riding a tandem bike with a “buddy” on a regular basis. Jamie and the other cyclists are creating camaraderie around this shared activity, while prepping for what will probably be the biggest ride of their lives: MB Bike the Drive on May 27.
Cycling has had other benefits for Jamie, too, including helping her set and work toward a weight loss goal and improving her overall fitness. Jamie also expressed a love of yoga, right before she showed her fellow cyclists how she does the splits! Everyone in the lobby broke out in spontaneous applause.