I started cycling in earnest in January of 2015 to train for the Hill Country Ride for AIDS. With all the training I did about 2,500-3,000 miles. I joined Strava in December 2015. So about 3,000 miles aren’t verified. But I was there and have witnesses, believe me.

Strava the fitness app assembles a bunch of graphics into a short little video. I’ve attached some of them for your viewing pleasure with comments in the captions.

Making my goal on the last day wasn’t ideal, but with several setbacks it was extra gratifying to make it. From a major sinus infection, to skin cancer surgery, a painful fall on my shoulder due to a crack in the road that still bothers me, unexplained weight gain, and other stuff. It was definitely a difficult year.

Obstacles are inevitable in any endeavor, sporting or otherwise. Finding ways to overcome them is part of the journey. Going to the gym or using a home trainer are one solution; I did both a fair bit in 2024. Taking days off would have been sensible, but I never claimed to be that. I do take naps. I’m still maintaining my daily cycling streak of five years and counting until I can’t. Somehow, I find ways to persevere

The year is new, and the pressure to make resolutions is high. But I’m not making any new ones. I’ll continue trying to sleep more and earlier, eat more vegetables, and generate income. Otherwise I am continuing my resolve to keep doing my 100 miles of cycling a week, 30′ daily walk, and 30′ of yoga. (Yoga With Adriene is doing a 7-day program called Prana instead of the usual 30, so I’m going through that now.)

Maybe my practices seem to some. That’s okay. I’m still a fathlete fighting the battle of the bulge. As with all battles, I’m a pacifist, though. Maybe that’s why I’m losing? Plus, I’m aging just like everyone else. I would like to get back into swimming, resistance bands, and possibly lifting some weights if my shoulder will allow it.

How was your year? For those without Strava or mileage goals, how did you do? Half Fast Cycling likes to measure BFUs–Big Fun Units. Quality not quantity is definitely part of what keeps us going. Whatever your activities and practices, A Dude Abikes wishes you good health to the extent possible, good times, and a Happy New Year. Let’s thrive in 2025!

As always, you’re welcome to follow me on Strava. And all Strava images are copyright Strava 2024, all rights reserved.