I understand and feel your pain Darren. I’ve been following your adventures for a couple of years and you remain a bloody inspiration. Whether you publish any more videos or not I wish you the very best on your upcoming adventure and all the best for the future. Thanks for sharing part of your life!
Thanks Peter, I will always make videos, I love creating them, They just might not be as regular as they once were. It is really humbling how many people have commented that I’ve inspired them over the years. I really appreciate it when they do, as it keeps me going. So thank you.
Hello Darren, a really sincere and honest video. I've watched your videos over the years, I think your rides with the Mendip club were brilliant. You are such a good communicator, and I loved the way that you managed to "get on" with so many different characters! Those videos were also good because you and the club didn't take yourself too seriously. Once cycling is in your blood, it's there for life. It's gives you freedom, especially when you ride solo like I do, and makes me fully appreciate being able to do it when you consider that there are so many due to different circumstances who are not able to do so. Therefore, when times get rough on the bike, whether it be the cold, rain, potholed roads, aches,"bonking", wheelsuckers, another hill, etc, etc, etc, ........embrace it, love it. Keep going Darren, keep loving one of the best pastimes there is. All good wishes and safe and happy riding. Simon.
Thank you Simon, I used to spend all week thinking about cycling and where I was going to ride at the weekend. But now it never enters my head, as I’m so busy. Ideally I think I need to live to a new area and start my cycling on 100% new roads, to find that excitement again. I’m not sure that will ever happen though. That or retirement!! Get rid of work and I’ll have plenty of free time to go and explore!! 😂 Hopefully next week in France will rekindle my love of riding. I enjoyed my last bike-packing trip so much, new roads every day, new adventure every day, it was tough, but that was from my own doing. I think I’ve struggled to replicate that feeling since. Buzzing for next week though, I just hope I’m fit enough to enjoy it!
Darren, certainly feel your pain - after over 10 years of cycling which I absolutely loved, a few niggling injuries started to spoil my rides and similar to yourself after a long time off the bike and no motivation to cycle the same roads your have ridden for over 10 years it’s very difficult to get out. However I will always be very thankful to cycling as it got me through some very tough times mentally and I have so many great memories. Cycling for me these days is to go out for a coffee & cake ride, sometimes with my family which makes it all worth while. My advice, don’t put any pressure on yourself and just enjoy the miles when you can. Catch up soon
Thanks Carlo, It’s reassuring I’m not alone. Time is really my only pressure, there is just not enough time to get to where I want to ride. If only I could retire! Then the adventure could really begin!
You aren't alone in loosing your motivation to ride. Im fed up of riding the same old routes and braving the elements that never seem to let up. I feel the cold and wind more than ever now. And once the fitness goes everything becomes so much harder. But I crack on and tap into that warrior spirit knowing better days on the bike will come. Its just a phase and will pass. Do what you enjoy to do. Thanks for the vid, was very brave of you to speak out.
Hi Darren. As you know I always enjoyed coming on rides with you and I listened to this video with great interest and some sadness. I’ve been lucky as I’ve never once lost motivation to exercise in 43 years. I’m as addicted now as I’ve ever been. But I did add a new dimension 14 years ago which has gradually taken over from outdoor rides - VR Cycling. I love Zwift and everything it offers. Many cyclists also make vlogs about their Zwift adventure. It’s not intended to replace the joys of cycling outdoors but the joys of cycling indoors have certainly meant that motivation is never an issue. Keep riding and live in the moment. . . . . Al
Thanks Al, I also like Zwift, but the guide dog puppy has put a stop to all my indoor stuff, as it would be too dangerous with him all excitable and playful. Once he has moved onto to his calling, then the turbo will be out again.
Darren, I think it’s fair to say as we age we become a little more reflective on life, and it’s tribulations, perhaps dare I say we may suffer mild depression, your recent weather has been enough to push anyone to the limit, and kill any desire to ride a bike around the same old routes, regardless of how beautiful the countryside is, it just becomes the norm! I’m currently training to walk the Te Ararora walkway, which is the whole length of NZ, and like yourself I’m lacking a bit of motivation, I’m blessed to have stunning walking tracks locally, which I have walked what seems a million times! So I feel your pain, but sure as eggs you’ll get your mojo back, a dose of vitamin D from some French sunshine will transform you. Good luck, and enjoy France ( I’m envious!)👍
I don’t think I’ve been depressed as I’m loving spending time with Cooper, I’m really going to miss him when he moves on to be a hero in a few months time. I’m buzzing for France with Pete though, the weather looks iffy at the minute, so I hope it’s wrong, as it should be an amazing week. Pete’s an expert bike-packer and I learnt loads from last years trip. So I can promise, there will be no stupidly steep climbs to attempt. Although Brittany isn’t flat apparently. But we’ve shortened the distance of daily riding. So that we can stop and enjoy the sights and Boulangerie’s we pass through. Good luck with the walk, that sounds epic!
Thanks so much for sharing this video Darren. It takes courage to be open and honest! You've helped me a lot. I've felt like this for so long and asked myself 'why' so many times but still don't understand why cycling now feels like a chore. I still cycle to retain fitness but aiming for leisure cycling taking time to enjoy the scenery. I was once happy to cycle around the block without thinking about mileage or average speed. You make very professional videos and I can't imagine how much time you spend editing! Enjoy time with your family, kids grow up so fast and then one day they move out! Hope you enjoy France and find your motivation and enthusiasm for cycling again.
Thank you Teresa, hopefully my trip to France is the answer. I loved my last bikepacking trip so much, so I’ve made sure I’ve planned on the experience from last time. To make this even more enjoyable. Yes, the editing can take several hours, which is hard to find that many hours that Cooper 🦮 is asleep for!!
Thanks for your honesty Darren. Great to see you out there again. Hope you have a great trip in France. No doubt you'll come back from there fitter than ever and your arse battle hardened and ready to enjoy more regular rides!
Thanks Andrew, I hope so, I really enjoyed my last trip so much, and that is half the reason I can’t get motivated to just ride anymore. When I’m travel exploring, everything just seems so much more exciting. Roll on Brittany!
What a poignant and profound video that is Darren. You’re right, time is whistling by and as my wife reminds me, do what you want now, as the clock of Father Time is ticking! Oh by the way….how many bikes do you have in the shed of wonder!! 😉😊
Thanks Steve, when I made the video last week, I had an idea in my head. When I sat down and wrote the script, I had this vision of the story I wanted to tell. Then once I’d edited and produced the video, I went backwards and forwards on whether to release the video, as it’s so far away from what I normally would do. I bravely took the plunge and released the video and I’m glad I did. The feedback has been brilliant and your comment means so much to me. Especially as you’ve supported the channel for so long. Your comments are always appreciated very much: so a heartfelt thank you! I only have a couple of bikes! 😂😜 So there is the Tandem, the Trek Domane? The Trek Marlin, my Canyon Ultimate, my old BMC Roadmachine, which has a cracked rear stay, and I hope one day I can afford to get it fixed. Then there’s Deb’s Specialized, Abbies Carrera, then I have my first Carrera Road bike and a very old Raleigh MTB I used to commute to work on, way before I started cycling. So that’s officially just a few……right? 😂
For Men of our age Shaun! Don’t you look back and wish you’d done more when you were younger and were fitter and had lots more energy? If only we knew then, what we know now!
Darren that video was great,ive admired your epic challenges you've done in the past and they have given me the motivation to push myself out of my comfort zone,I've had the same thoughts as you at times with cycling,you are spot on with what you say,its great to see you back on your bike and good luck with your bike packing trip in France 😉🚴♂️💪
Thanks Kevin, I’m really looking forward to France. I’ve got a great route planned, I’ve got Pete as company and I’ve mapped out where all the a boulangerie’s are one route! It’s going to be epic and one hell of a laugh. It really means a lot to hear of how I’ve inspired people with their cycling. It does make it all worth it, so thank you!
You seem to be rocking on the saddle Darren , no motivation think of the people who can’t get out on their bikes , I’ve lost a hell of lot fitness. Going out on the wheels for al on a 3 wheeler bike is hard work, just under 2 miles then I’m knacked, need a sleep 💤 , going out in the rain is a pain but it makes you stronger for the good weather , I’ve done quite a bit of cycling before I joined Strava lots of sportive rides and night rides with not much sleep 💤 good luck to you Darren, do it while you can , 👍👍
Thanks Terry, I think we all take things for granted. You never know just what is around the corner waiting to knock us back. I lost my Uncle just before I made this video and he was only 66, just retired and about to enjoy the rest of his life. But as a Father, a Husband, a Dog Dad and an employee, the demands on my time are never ending. It does some time feel selfish to bugger off on a jolly on my bike for several hours at times. The rocking is because I’m painfully sat on the selfie stick of my Insta360 camera to get the shot I wanted. It’s suffering for my art in the purest form!! 😂 You a true inspiration though Terry, and next time I can’t get myself out of the door, I’ll remind myself that I need to ride for the people who can’t.
I know what you mean! The thing that boosted my motivation is a riding buddy, the feeling of having to go as to not let someone down, for me gets me out the door. We ride every Sunday morning, unless torrential rain. It’s hard with family tho I won’t lie, but mine are 5 and 2 and if I don’t ride will I keep my fitness to play with them? I heard a saying and kinda resonated with me, the only bad ride is the ride you didn’t do…. Love your videos and glad to see you back. I also recommend a bike fit- May of just been the angle but from rear view shots there was a lot of hip movements so maybe your seat is a tad too high!
You’re not wrong, a riding buddy would make it easier, it trying to find someone to fit in with my hectic life is a challenge! Oh and the hips are swinging as I’m sat on the selfie stick to get the rear view shots with my Insta360 camera! It’s uncomfortable as hell, but that the price you pay to get the shot!! 😂 Thank you
I absolutely love riding around the Mendips and chew valley, be on the road bike or mtb bike. Just a hour here or 2 hours there around our lovely country side 😊 I always enjoy it. Give me a DM if you want to meet up
Hi Darren, e-bikes are the way to get back into enjoying your cycling, I got into ebiking several years ago and commute 30 mile round trip all year round, get an e-bike and a range extender and you can be out for 100 mile adventures 👍
I’m not sure I could fit another bike in the shed! 😂 Plus it’s my 29th Wedding Anniversary today, I’m pretty sure there wouldn’t be a 30th if I bought another bike!! One day though, as I do like the idea of an e-bike!
Thanks Randel, I’m really looking forward to it. This time next week, I’ll be on the ferry on my way to France 🇫🇷 New roads, an old friend and plenty of new laughs, and not forgetting the Boulangeries! Hopefully I’ll find my mojo somewhere in Brittany!
Looks like you had a great ride. I'm just back from doing the Mendips Lakes and Lumps ride today which did much of the route you took (although we did it the other way). Perhaps doing a couple of sportives anonymously (without the camera) might help you rediscover your mojo? I would like to thank you for your videos which inspired me to take cycling more seriously, particularly your Swiss trip last year, so much so that I went out and did the Furka Pass and Oberalp Pass after you. Done London - Paris in May and now going back to Switzerland again next week for more pain! I never thought I would have been able to do this, especially as I got older. Met great people along the way, seen the sights and got fitter. Just keep going and be happy - as you (and others below) say, you don't know what's round the corner so make the most of every day and keep pedalling!
Thanks Geraint! Back to Switzerland, I’m so jealous!! I’ll have to manage with a few miles in France instead. You’ve laid down a challenge now though! So let’s see if I can get you to ride through Brittany and Normandie next!! 😜
Loved this so much, I’m struggling the same, time goes so fast, family work, gardening and my fluff boys all require my attention my fitness has gone my motivation has vanished. I wonder how i had time to ride with a club and be super fit! Now i rarely make it out the door!
Thanks Michelle, I had been a little bit worried about posting this video, as it’s a lot different to what I’m comfortable making. So thank you! The feedback means a lot. Hopefully it can help just one person who relates and gets them back on their bike. Life is way too short.
Plenty of rides going out which you are welcome to join anytime . Also struggled with motivation since November but getting out of the door now and back on the distance rides.
Hi Darren just recently started watching your videos and really enjoy them, hope you get over this slump and keep cycling, I'm really into hiking and often have to force myself out the door with no motivation but i keep going both for fitness and as a way of clearing the head. Hope to see many more videos from you in the future. Best of luck
Thanks Robert, I’ll always make videos, I’m bike-packing across France next week, so that will be my next video series. I also like a good hike, taking Cooper on walks is what’s got me through the last few months. But he’s also a big reason why I haven’t got much time left for anything else!! It’s great that you’ve enjoyed my videos, so thanks for watching.
You are not alone in how you feel about cycling. I felt it when you talked about having explored all the places close to you. It’s almost like the world feels too small at times. Subscribed because I love the mix of conversation, music and beautiful locations.
Thank you, welcome to the channel. I found I was able to ride all the local roads, and even managed to find the odd roads I hadn’t ridden. Then once all that was exhausted, I just started riding further afield, until it gets to the point, you have to ride 100km just to find a new area to ride in! My heat map is a massive red blob over the Southwest of England!! I’m looking forward to getting out and exploring Brittany and Normandy next week though! Plenty of new roads!
I can relate to this......I live in Luxembourg but sometimes the same old is tough, but I get out there and do it, feel better for it as well....cycling to Dijon this week......get out and do it
Thanks Paul, I’ll be out next Sunday on my way to France myself. Genuinely excited for it, and it’s been a while since I’ve felt like that. But yes, no time for excuses anymore, just crack on and ride! Enjoy Dijon, I cycled through there 10 years ago nearly to the day, on my epic Coast to Coast across France.
I did Manche to Med a few years ago, Caen to Montpelier over 14 days, best cycling I have ever done, it reignites that cycling passion 😊 enjoy your trip, get away from the pants weather we have had over the past few months 👍
Thanks Ian, that’s what I’m hoping. I’m very excited for the trip, this time next week, we will be boarding the ferry to France. Just the small matter of riding 100 miles to get there. 😬
How do you eat an elephant? Piece by piece. Maybe forget about the "challenge" - the climbs to tick off, the big mileages to cover. If you're too ambitious, you're bound to fail! Why must you try to cover 160km with luggage? Will that be fun.. or something to be "got through"? Will you be camping? If so, why? There are small inexpensive hotels all over France and riding between them might be more fun with a lighter load. Cycling doesn't have to be "epic" all the time. Very best wishes mate.
Thanks Jonathan, the 160km is a necessity to reach the ferry, as we only have so many days of holiday. I have purposefully made sure the days riding in France is limited to just 100km so that we can enjoy the day with no time pressure. Having learnt from last year’s trip. We will be camping, we have one Airbnb booked half way to recharge all the electronics. Which is probably 75% of my luggage!! 😂 I love the camping element of it, there is something so wonderful about exploring and having everything you need with you. This isn’t so much a challenge as a holiday. It will be amazing, the only thing I’m worried about is my fitness in being able to ride to Plymouth on day 1. I’m with Pete, so the days will be spent laughing, that’s for sure!!
Actually I think the sofa has been kicking my butt the last few months, I think I’m 5-1 down!! 😬 although, there is still time for a second half fight back!!
I wouldn’t throw away my Wahoo!! That’s where my maps are!! I only ever have the map screen open, it’s about where I ride, not how I ride. I haven’t looked at any cycling stats based stuff for a lot of years. I’m just not motivated to ride my local roads any more, I need exploration.
@@DarrenPhillips I have a similar problem living on the coast in Aldeburgh, Suffolk the North Sea one way and limited number of routes inland add to that I normally only get two hours cycling time a week. Veloviewer help's encouraging me to explore new roads to collect tiles ( one of your videos started me on this quest ). Of late I've been working in Bungay also in Suffolk where I've exploring places I haven't been before. Once or twice a year I visit N. Devon and I love cycling in area so many lanes to explore and people to chat to. I really hope you get your mojo back soon you've been an inspiration to me and many others. Take care and keep pedaling
Thank Terry, I probably need to move to a new area and start exploring fresh new roads. But it’s not so simple with work and family etc. My French bike-packing series goes live tomorrow at 6pm, I went from Roscoff to Cherbourg over a week with my mate Pete. Brilliant roads to explore, we followed the Eurovelo 4 route mainly and visited the Mont Saint Michel. Loved it! And can’t wait to share the adventure. Going from not riding for 5 months, to riding over 800km’s in a week was an experience!!
I understand and feel your pain Darren. I’ve been following your adventures for a couple of years and you remain a bloody inspiration. Whether you publish any more videos or not I wish you the very best on your upcoming adventure and all the best for the future. Thanks for sharing part of your life!
Thanks Peter, I will always make videos, I love creating them, They just might not be as regular as they once were. It is really humbling how many people have commented that I’ve inspired them over the years. I really appreciate it when they do, as it keeps me going. So thank you.
Hello Darren, a really sincere and honest video. I've watched your videos over the years, I think your rides with the Mendip club were brilliant. You are such a good communicator, and I loved the way that you managed to "get on" with so many different characters! Those videos were also good because you and the club didn't take yourself too seriously. Once cycling is in your blood, it's there for life. It's gives you freedom, especially when you ride solo like I do, and makes me fully appreciate being able to do it when you consider that there are so many due to different circumstances who are not able to do so. Therefore, when times get rough on the bike, whether it be the cold, rain, potholed roads, aches,"bonking", wheelsuckers, another hill, etc, etc, etc, ........embrace it, love it. Keep going Darren, keep loving one of the best pastimes there is. All good wishes and safe and happy riding. Simon.
Thank you Simon, I used to spend all week thinking about cycling and where I was going to ride at the weekend. But now it never enters my head, as I’m so busy. Ideally I think I need to live to a new area and start my cycling on 100% new roads, to find that excitement again. I’m not sure that will ever happen though. That or retirement!! Get rid of work and I’ll have plenty of free time to go and explore!! 😂
Hopefully next week in France will rekindle my love of riding. I enjoyed my last bike-packing trip so much, new roads every day, new adventure every day, it was tough, but that was from my own doing. I think I’ve struggled to replicate that feeling since. Buzzing for next week though, I just hope I’m fit enough to enjoy it!
Darren, certainly feel your pain - after over 10 years of cycling which I absolutely loved, a few niggling injuries started to spoil my rides and similar to yourself after a long time off the bike and no motivation to cycle the same roads your have ridden for over 10 years it’s very difficult to get out. However I will always be very thankful to cycling as it got me through some very tough times mentally and I have so many great memories. Cycling for me these days is to go out for a coffee & cake ride, sometimes with my family which makes it all worth while.
My advice, don’t put any pressure on yourself and just enjoy the miles when you can. Catch up soon
Thanks Carlo, It’s reassuring I’m not alone. Time is really my only pressure, there is just not enough time to get to where I want to ride. If only I could retire! Then the adventure could really begin!
You aren't alone in loosing your motivation to ride. Im fed up of riding the same old routes and braving the elements that never seem to let up. I feel the cold and wind more than ever now. And once the fitness goes everything becomes so much harder. But I crack on and tap into that warrior spirit knowing better days on the bike will come. Its just a phase and will pass. Do what you enjoy to do. Thanks for the vid, was very brave of you to speak out.
Thanks Simon! The weather this winter was particularly awful, that certainly didn’t help!
Hi Darren. As you know I always enjoyed coming on rides with you and I listened to this video with great interest and some sadness. I’ve been lucky as I’ve never once lost motivation to exercise in 43 years. I’m as addicted now as I’ve ever been. But I did add a new dimension 14 years ago which has gradually taken over from outdoor rides - VR Cycling. I love Zwift and everything it offers. Many cyclists also make vlogs about their Zwift adventure. It’s not intended to replace the joys of cycling outdoors but the joys of cycling indoors have certainly meant that motivation is never an issue. Keep riding and live in the moment. . . . . Al
Thanks Al, I also like Zwift, but the guide dog puppy has put a stop to all my indoor stuff, as it would be too dangerous with him all excitable and playful. Once he has moved onto to his calling, then the turbo will be out again.
Darren, I think it’s fair to say as we age we become a little more reflective on life, and it’s tribulations, perhaps dare I say we may suffer mild depression, your recent weather has been enough to push anyone to the limit, and kill any desire to ride a bike around the same old routes, regardless of how beautiful the countryside is, it just becomes the norm! I’m currently training to walk the Te Ararora walkway, which is the whole length of NZ, and like yourself I’m lacking a bit of motivation, I’m blessed to have stunning walking tracks locally, which I have walked what seems a million times! So I feel your pain, but sure as eggs you’ll get your mojo back, a dose of vitamin D from some French sunshine will transform you.
Good luck, and enjoy France ( I’m envious!)👍
I don’t think I’ve been depressed as I’m loving spending time with Cooper, I’m really going to miss him when he moves on to be a hero in a few months time. I’m buzzing for France with Pete though, the weather looks iffy at the minute, so I hope it’s wrong, as it should be an amazing week. Pete’s an expert bike-packer and I learnt loads from last years trip. So I can promise, there will be no stupidly steep climbs to attempt. Although Brittany isn’t flat apparently. But we’ve shortened the distance of daily riding. So that we can stop and enjoy the sights and Boulangerie’s we pass through. Good luck with the walk, that sounds epic!
Thanks so much for sharing this video Darren. It takes courage to be open and honest! You've helped me a lot. I've felt like this for so long and asked myself 'why' so many times but still don't understand why cycling now feels like a chore. I still cycle to retain fitness but aiming for leisure cycling taking time to enjoy the scenery. I was once happy to cycle around the block without thinking about mileage or average speed. You make very professional videos and I can't imagine how much time you spend editing! Enjoy time with your family, kids grow up so fast and then one day they move out! Hope you enjoy France and find your motivation and enthusiasm for cycling again.
Thank you Teresa, hopefully my trip to France is the answer. I loved my last bikepacking trip so much, so I’ve made sure I’ve planned on the experience from last time. To make this even more enjoyable. Yes, the editing can take several hours, which is hard to find that many hours that Cooper 🦮 is asleep for!!
Thanks for your honesty Darren. Great to see you out there again. Hope you have a great trip in France. No doubt you'll come back from there fitter than ever and your arse battle hardened and ready to enjoy more regular rides!
Thanks Andrew, I hope so, I really enjoyed my last trip so much, and that is half the reason I can’t get motivated to just ride anymore. When I’m travel exploring, everything just seems so much more exciting. Roll on Brittany!
@@DarrenPhillips I've just returned from exploring a new area of our state and enjoying some great rides, so I hear you! Enjoy Brittany!
What a poignant and profound video that is Darren. You’re right, time is whistling by and as my wife reminds me, do what you want now, as the clock of Father Time is ticking!
Oh by the way….how many bikes do you have in the shed of wonder!! 😉😊
Thanks Steve, when I made the video last week, I had an idea in my head. When I sat down and wrote the script, I had this vision of the story I wanted to tell. Then once I’d edited and produced the video, I went backwards and forwards on whether to release the video, as it’s so far away from what I normally would do. I bravely took the plunge and released the video and I’m glad I did. The feedback has been brilliant and your comment means so much to me. Especially as you’ve supported the channel for so long. Your comments are always appreciated very much: so a heartfelt thank you!
I only have a couple of bikes! 😂😜 So there is the Tandem, the Trek Domane? The Trek Marlin, my Canyon Ultimate, my old BMC Roadmachine, which has a cracked rear stay, and I hope one day I can afford to get it fixed. Then there’s Deb’s Specialized, Abbies Carrera, then I have my first Carrera Road bike and a very old Raleigh MTB I used to commute to work on, way before I started cycling. So that’s officially just a few……right? 😂
The passage or time Darren!! Love that 🐕.
For Men of our age Shaun! Don’t you look back and wish you’d done more when you were younger and were fitter and had lots more energy? If only we knew then, what we know now!
Too true Darren! Too true!
Darren that video was great,ive admired your epic challenges you've done in the past and they have given me the motivation to push myself out of my comfort zone,I've had the same thoughts as you at times with cycling,you are spot on with what you say,its great to see you back on your bike and good luck with your bike packing trip in France 😉🚴♂️💪
Thanks Kevin, I’m really looking forward to France. I’ve got a great route planned, I’ve got Pete as company and I’ve mapped out where all the a boulangerie’s are one route! It’s going to be epic and one hell of a laugh.
It really means a lot to hear of how I’ve inspired people with their cycling. It does make it all worth it, so thank you!
You seem to be rocking on the saddle Darren , no motivation think of the people who can’t get out on their bikes , I’ve lost a hell of lot fitness. Going out on the wheels for al on a 3 wheeler bike is hard work, just under 2 miles then I’m knacked, need a sleep 💤 , going out in the rain is a pain but it makes you stronger for the good weather , I’ve done quite a bit of cycling before I joined Strava lots of sportive rides and night rides with not much sleep 💤 good luck to you Darren, do it while you can , 👍👍
Thanks Terry, I think we all take things for granted. You never know just what is around the corner waiting to knock us back. I lost my Uncle just before I made this video and he was only 66, just retired and about to enjoy the rest of his life. But as a Father, a Husband, a Dog Dad and an employee, the demands on my time are never ending. It does some time feel selfish to bugger off on a jolly on my bike for several hours at times.
The rocking is because I’m painfully sat on the selfie stick of my Insta360 camera to get the shot I wanted. It’s suffering for my art in the purest form!! 😂
You a true inspiration though Terry, and next time I can’t get myself out of the door, I’ll remind myself that I need to ride for the people who can’t.
I know what you mean! The thing that boosted my motivation is a riding buddy, the feeling of having to go as to not let someone down, for me gets me out the door. We ride every Sunday morning, unless torrential rain. It’s hard with family tho I won’t lie, but mine are 5 and 2 and if I don’t ride will I keep my fitness to play with them? I heard a saying and kinda resonated with me, the only bad ride is the ride you didn’t do…. Love your videos and glad to see you back.
I also recommend a bike fit- May of just been the angle but from rear view shots there was a lot of hip movements so maybe your seat is a tad too high!
You’re not wrong, a riding buddy would make it easier, it trying to find someone to fit in with my hectic life is a challenge!
Oh and the hips are swinging as I’m sat on the selfie stick to get the rear view shots with my Insta360 camera! It’s uncomfortable as hell, but that the price you pay to get the shot!! 😂
Thank you
I absolutely love riding around the Mendips and chew valley, be on the road bike or mtb bike. Just a hour here or 2 hours there around our lovely country side 😊 I always enjoy it. Give me a DM if you want to meet up
Thanks Mark, that sounds good 👌
Hi Darren, e-bikes are the way to get back into enjoying your cycling, I got into ebiking several years ago and commute 30 mile round trip all year round, get an e-bike and a range extender and you can be out for 100 mile adventures 👍
I’m not sure I could fit another bike in the shed! 😂
Plus it’s my 29th Wedding Anniversary today, I’m pretty sure there wouldn’t be a 30th if I bought another bike!!
One day though, as I do like the idea of an e-bike!
Good to see you back. Onwards and upwards!
Thank you, although hopefully not so much up, until I’m fitter! 😂
Thought prevoking vid, I suppose wherever you live it gets a bit same-ish. You took the first srep in getting back your mojo. All the best in France.
Thanks Randel, I’m really looking forward to it. This time next week, I’ll be on the ferry on my way to France 🇫🇷 New roads, an old friend and plenty of new laughs, and not forgetting the Boulangeries! Hopefully I’ll find my mojo somewhere in Brittany!
Relatable and heart felt, nothing more to say than Thank you!!
And a big thank you back Dan! ☺️
Looks like you had a great ride. I'm just back from doing the Mendips Lakes and Lumps ride today which did much of the route you took (although we did it the other way). Perhaps doing a couple of sportives anonymously (without the camera) might help you rediscover your mojo? I would like to thank you for your videos which inspired me to take cycling more seriously, particularly your Swiss trip last year, so much so that I went out and did the Furka Pass and Oberalp Pass after you. Done London - Paris in May and now going back to Switzerland again next week for more pain! I never thought I would have been able to do this, especially as I got older. Met great people along the way, seen the sights and got fitter. Just keep going and be happy - as you (and others below) say, you don't know what's round the corner so make the most of every day and keep pedalling!
Thanks Geraint! Back to Switzerland, I’m so jealous!! I’ll have to manage with a few miles in France instead. You’ve laid down a challenge now though! So let’s see if I can get you to ride through Brittany and Normandie next!! 😜
Loved this so much, I’m struggling the same, time goes so fast, family work, gardening and my fluff boys all require my attention my fitness has gone my motivation has vanished. I wonder how i had time to ride with a club and be super fit! Now i rarely make it out the door!
Thanks Michelle, I had been a little bit worried about posting this video, as it’s a lot different to what I’m comfortable making. So thank you! The feedback means a lot. Hopefully it can help just one person who relates and gets them back on their bike. Life is way too short.
Plenty of rides going out which you are welcome to join anytime .
Also struggled with motivation since November but getting out of the door now and back on the distance rides.
Thanks Del, we will definitely need to catch up again soon. I’m not sure I could manage the crazy distances you and Justin keep smashing out though!
Hi Darren just recently started watching your videos and really enjoy them, hope you get over this slump and keep cycling, I'm really into hiking and often have to force myself out the door with no motivation but i keep going both for fitness and as a way of clearing the head. Hope to see many more videos from you in the future. Best of luck
Thanks Robert, I’ll always make videos, I’m bike-packing across France next week, so that will be my next video series. I also like a good hike, taking Cooper on walks is what’s got me through the last few months. But he’s also a big reason why I haven’t got much time left for anything else!! It’s great that you’ve enjoyed my videos, so thanks for watching.
You are not alone in how you feel about cycling. I felt it when you talked about having explored all the places close to you. It’s almost like the world feels too small at times. Subscribed because I love the mix of conversation, music and beautiful locations.
Thank you, welcome to the channel. I found I was able to ride all the local roads, and even managed to find the odd roads I hadn’t ridden. Then once all that was exhausted, I just started riding further afield, until it gets to the point, you have to ride 100km just to find a new area to ride in! My heat map is a massive red blob over the Southwest of England!!
I’m looking forward to getting out and exploring Brittany and Normandy next week though! Plenty of new roads!
I can relate to this......I live in Luxembourg but sometimes the same old is tough, but I get out there and do it, feel better for it as well....cycling to Dijon this week......get out and do it
Thanks Paul, I’ll be out next Sunday on my way to France myself. Genuinely excited for it, and it’s been a while since I’ve felt like that. But yes, no time for excuses anymore, just crack on and ride! Enjoy Dijon, I cycled through there 10 years ago nearly to the day, on my epic Coast to Coast across France.
@@DarrenPhillips enjoy, you'll comeback refreshed......I use to live in Glastonbury.......Barn Green.........have fun
@smeaty100 I’ve probably delivered your post at some point then!! 😂 I did manage a delivery on Redlands back in the 90’s
I did Manche to Med a few years ago, Caen to Montpelier over 14 days, best cycling I have ever done, it reignites that cycling passion 😊 enjoy your trip, get away from the pants weather we have had over the past few months 👍
Thanks Ian, that’s what I’m hoping. I’m very excited for the trip, this time next week, we will be boarding the ferry to France. Just the small matter of riding 100 miles to get there. 😬
@@DarrenPhillips you will be fine, cycling those French roads is brilliant, as you ,know from your Swiss trip 😊 let’s see the vids of your trip !
@ianbooth369 Oh, there will be videos, for that I am certain!!
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Thank you Lewis
Well done mate, love your videos. I've just done those two climbs again recently. Maybe we can meet up for a ride together sometime?
Thanks John, that would be good! You might have to wait for me at the top though!! 😂
How do you eat an elephant? Piece by piece. Maybe forget about the "challenge" - the climbs to tick off, the big mileages to cover. If you're too ambitious, you're bound to fail! Why must you try to cover 160km with luggage? Will that be fun.. or something to be "got through"? Will you be camping? If so, why? There are small inexpensive hotels all over France and riding between them might be more fun with a lighter load. Cycling doesn't have to be "epic" all the time. Very best wishes mate.
Thanks Jonathan, the 160km is a necessity to reach the ferry, as we only have so many days of holiday. I have purposefully made sure the days riding in France is limited to just 100km so that we can enjoy the day with no time pressure. Having learnt from last year’s trip. We will be camping, we have one Airbnb booked half way to recharge all the electronics. Which is probably 75% of my luggage!! 😂 I love the camping element of it, there is something so wonderful about exploring and having everything you need with you. This isn’t so much a challenge as a holiday. It will be amazing, the only thing I’m worried about is my fitness in being able to ride to Plymouth on day 1. I’m with Pete, so the days will be spent laughing, that’s for sure!!
Darren 1 sofa 0 👍
Actually I think the sofa has been kicking my butt the last few months, I think I’m 5-1 down!! 😬 although, there is still time for a second half fight back!!
@@DarrenPhillips keep trying can’t wait to see the second half
Throw away the Wahoo, don't worry about your times, just enjoy your cycling.
I wouldn’t throw away my Wahoo!! That’s where my maps are!! I only ever have the map screen open, it’s about where I ride, not how I ride. I haven’t looked at any cycling stats based stuff for a lot of years. I’m just not motivated to ride my local roads any more, I need exploration.
@@DarrenPhillips I have a similar problem living on the coast in Aldeburgh, Suffolk the North Sea one way and limited number of routes inland add to that I normally only get two hours cycling time a week. Veloviewer help's encouraging me to explore new roads to collect tiles ( one of your videos started me on this quest ). Of late I've been working in Bungay also in Suffolk where I've exploring places I haven't been before. Once or twice a year I visit N. Devon and I love cycling in area so many lanes to explore and people to chat to.
I really hope you get your mojo back soon you've been an inspiration to me and many others.
Take care and keep pedaling
Thank Terry, I probably need to move to a new area and start exploring fresh new roads. But it’s not so simple with work and family etc.
My French bike-packing series goes live tomorrow at 6pm, I went from Roscoff to Cherbourg over a week with my mate Pete. Brilliant roads to explore, we followed the Eurovelo 4 route mainly and visited the Mont Saint Michel. Loved it! And can’t wait to share the adventure. Going from not riding for 5 months, to riding over 800km’s in a week was an experience!!
@@DarrenPhillips Looking forward to watching it Darren.