@@KatieKookaburra .....from a guy who was ridiculed for years because of a difference of opinion to the point he couldn't be ridiculed anymore and had two choices, end it or walk through it....he walked through it and all self consciousness dropped away, he stopped completely giving a shit what others thought of him and out of it came the quote....The guy's name is "David Icke", I'm sure you've probably heard of him..... Whether folk agree with him or not his story is mind blowing.... I'm glad you like the quote 🙏
My mental illness has played havoc with my life. Cycling has been a stable rock. When I was unable to do anything. I could always get out on a bike. The excercise. The endorphins. The feeling of achievement. The motivation. The forward planning of a ride. Having to dig deep to get through big rides. Helps build psychological resilience for when days seem dark. Cycling has been a positive influence and a saviour. Still, some days are occasionally crippling and debilitating. It's just the way my brain is wired. But I have bikes. And they make a huge difference.
Very nicely put. You’ve described in a few words what it would take me a book to say, and then you’d end up confused at the end. Thankyou, and bless you.
Your videos are great. I love the enthusiasm. The one about cycling to Devon was fantastic. edit: I love the point you made about the bike being fun. I started riding to work about 10 years ago after a 20 year break. The first 2 weeks were hell but then something happened (endorphins or something). I started planning all kinds of mad rides (Southampton to Portsmouth, Reading to London, Round the IOW). I don't really focus on the fitness. I just get on my bike and off I go. It's like being a kid again. I stop and talk to random people. I say good morning to people and cheer them up as I go by. Total game changer. Wow, that smile on your face with your bike when you came back from Aus. 100% Pure Joy. Amazing. What was the bike you bought for £600? (answer: Giant road-bike: found in an early video)
Bikes are genuinely one of the best inventions. They are an amazing machines and as we get older the ebike will allow us to ride long into our futures.
I can relate.. At 41 years old, And having a heart problem. I was told not to ride again, as I used to ride indoor cycling at the Manchester velodrome on a weekend. My doctors said I was nuts, after having a pacemaker implanted. I got back on my bike in January 2022 only a few months after leaving hospital, and I'm literally 💯 better for it!!. "Sometimes we're tested, not to show our weakness, But to discover our strengths"
The thing that struck me was how the smile appeared as soon as you reached the part about buying your 1st Bike there is something so uplifting about cycling impossible to explain what it is unless it's just fun. Well done for sharing we should all learn that it helps and no one should ever be embarrassed about what troubles them, most people will respect you for showing who you really are.
I noticed exactly that! Love you Katie (from a 72 years old cyclist who is so grateful of discovering cycling also. Almost 5,000 km last year, looking for more in 2021!)
Not "impossible to explain"! One goes elsewhere physically and mentally. Cycling's rhythmical brain pattern is relief from what ails thee. It can bring other helpful distractions too.
Lovely video Kate, im 70 started cycling at 60 and always reminds me ' Sometimes it takes a life time to find a life' I couldn't be happier especially as i have a partner with the same interests. Take care.
Katie it was very kind of you to share that with everyone, it will undoubtedly help someone in a similar position to that which you found yourself in. We need to take care of each other and that's what your videos do
Cycling has saved my life as well. When I was in my late 40s I started riding with my kids on local bike paths. I just kept getting more involved with cycling. At the beginning I weighed 265 lbs and I lost down to 185. Had I not done all this the heart attack that I had 12 years later would have killed me. I still ride but no racing anymore and I have to take it easy but I am so blessed to be able to ride. Keep up your great videos.
Thank you for being vulnerable enough to share this. I love that we can have this cycle of give and take through social media. Parts of your story resonate strongly for me. As someone fractionally taller than you, I was always told how “big” I was. I think that word has been quite damaging. In hindsight, I was a healthy weight, but I just saw myself as fat. I still (at 41) have a very complex relationship with food and control, but rather than going down the purging and binging route, my self-loathing played out in self harm for a very long time. Cycling for me has given me a joy I haven’t felt since I was a little kid. Those destructive thoughts and feelings aren’t super far down inside, but cycling and this community gives me a focus and joy that keep me in balance. Thank you for sharing. It makes a real difference for so many of us💚
Your channel is an inspiration to women cyclists like me because you're so warm and human and relatable - and all the more so now that you've shared the struggles which you went through to get here. You should be proud of yourself for being such a lovely person and having the courage to pull yourself out of that dark place. I gave up cycling in my 20s because I got scared of the traffic, but then in the first lockdown last year, overweight and staring into an abyss of depression, I bought a bike on ebay. I completely fell in love with it and couldn't believe how good I felt from riding it and how quickly the depression evaporated. I now cycle at least 100 miles a week and have lost nearly 2 stone without even thinking about calorie deficits. I love it so much and I completely agree with you that cycling is the best thing ever!
Thank you. I was close to diabetic and my doctor sent me to nutrition education and they spent 80% of the time talking about the E word, exercise! I bought a Schwinn, shed close to 50 pounds and that was 10 years ago. I'm 72 and still ride every chance that I can, I just love the freedom and fresh air. And I have kept the weight off.
Thanks for your wonderful story, Katie. I also owe my health to the bike. Between the ages of about 4 and 10 years, I was plagued by bronchitis after every cold I caught - and children typically catch lots! These attacks had me fighting for every breath I took during long nights of misery - made worse by vomiting, they were awful. I had pneumonia twice, and was hospitalised. Then one summer (I was 10 by then), I took it into my head to learn to ride a bike. The result? An incredible health improvement - in less than a year, the dreadful chest infections stopped. Now aged 72, after all these years I still love riding the bike.
I found your videos last year and could so easily relate to you. I’ve only been riding for three years and got serious about it a year ago. It’s been such a stress relief during a stressful year. I could escape the negativity and stress from my job and do something where I felt strong. I completed my first century in September - my goal was to get three centuries in before my 56 birthday in November. Then five days after riding 100 miles for the first time, I was hit by a pickup truck and thrown under the trailer he was pulling and run over. Spent a week in the hospital with three broken vertebrae and a fractured ankle. Yesterday was Day 100 since my accident and I bought a bike today 😊. Will be putting it on my trainer and getting back in the saddle and building strength before I take my first ride back on the road hopefully by Feb 1. Your messages have been a real inspiration for me. Thank you for all the tips and advice and for your authenticity.
You've come out the other side the better for it. Good on you. The breakup of a 20yr relationship and the end of my 12yr marriage got me back on a bike after 25years off one. I just needed to get out the house and occupy myself.
Why do we torture ourselves ? Time we all decided “No more secrets”. Great that you are living your life in the light and thanks for sharing. ♥️ your channel keep those pedals turning
Katie, that was amazing! Also amazing that it was all filmed in one take. It reminds me of a Richard Nixon quote which is metaphorically appropriate to cycling: ...Only if you've been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain.
Thanks for sharing and being vulnerable. Many of us need that message of hope. So many things have been chaotic in my life the last few years, but cycling has become almost the only thing that keeps me together.
I’ve not had any experience with eating disorders, but have some other mental health challenges... normalising talking about things like this is so so important, so thank you for using your platform and reach to be so open, honest,and vulnerable, and doing what you can to open up the conversation!
As I already said that you have a beautiful heart, yes we do have difficulties with weight, I am 156 kgs and many other health issues, but your journey is amazing and so motivating, you are doing a great job. I am from India in last few months, I started watching you videos and you have motivated many of us. Thank you so much
People come at cycling from so many directions to get positive results and I'm glad it makes our lives better. I very much appreciate you sharing that and it helped a lot to hear it. Ideally we'd all get to the place you're at.
Katie that was a beautiful thing you just did!!! I know there’s highs and lows even in cycling. You are so awesome for keeping your channel real. Take care Katie and you were always beautiful.
That was so interesting. It is a totally different story to mine and yet there are so many areas where I was saying, "Yep, know that feeling" and "Yep, I did that". I bet a lot of people found their own similarities. Thanks Katie.
I totally relate to this! Cycling has saved me from the darker moments in my life, the friendships, the hard work, the scenery and ultimately the fitness have all given me purpose to go out and ride. Thank you for baring your soul, your are truly inspirational. Chapeau Katie xx
Love you to bits for so many reasons. I always enjoy watching your videos. You’re down to Earth, honest and very open. What I admire most, is you don’t take yourself too seriously and will video yourself when you’re not looking your best, more often than not like a drowned rat or sweaty with your hair all over the place. For a woman to do that takes a lot of self confidence. I and I’m sure most people find that confidence much more attractive than fancy hairdo’s and false nails. Your videos are usually informative or helpful and you always convey your enthusiasm and enjoyment which I find infectious. Keep doing what you’re doing and keep being you xx.
Thanks for sharing your story Katie. You’re not just beautiful on the outside , it’s your inner beauty and honesty that shines through and makes you even more so! You inspire many and love what you do and do what you love, and are loved by us!!
hi Katie... my definition for you: a lucky star and lucky those of us, like me, who have discovered your channel... where this video, and others (like "FAILING to keep up! of 22 February) allow us to see things about ourselves, in a "mirror". I follow you from Italy I say thank you for your soul so transparent and so inspiring. if I already loved the bicycle and the sensations that acting on the pedals transmits...now the angle from which to see those pedals is even better... thank you for who you are, each of your videos will be a gift! best bright days to you!
Good on ya, Katie, takes a lot to come out and be so honest with your followers. Keep on sharing how you're feeling. I doubt I'm the only one who appreciates a bit of candour and authenticity.
Cycling has brought balance to my life. Im still overweight, but Im in progress, and I ve come to peace with myself . That was the most important for me, to find peace, and let go the frustration. Your earlier videos gave me great inspirarion, thank You for that aswell!
You're so brave to tell your story! It is so comforting to know I'm not the only one who went through similar stuff and it gives me a lot of hope. Thank you, it means a lot!
I've always loved biking but what 2020 did for me is now having 3 more bikes, commuting all winter which I previously didn't do and riding more than I have done in 20 years. It might sound odd, but whenever I am on a bike I can't think of any invention more awesome than a bike, it's perfect in every way, it will be your friend, your trainer, your chauffeur, your racer, your transporter, but most of all, it will be your mentor to living a healthier and happier life.
Amazing lady,been through so much,thanks for being so open and sharing how bad things had been. Your posts have been inspiring and made me want to get out on my bike more and more. Thanks Katie for sharing your a strong beautiful lady 😍👍
Thanks for sharing. Bicycling helped and continues to help me in dealing with my depression and anxiety. Getting in shape helped me feel better physically and mentally.
Great Story, Katie, Cycling is pure joy for me. . even on the tough hills . .. .Thank you for sharing your very personal journey. So Relevant. . Glad you've made a living out of your joy. . . and thus sharing your experiences and great tips for all of us. . .Celebrate Life!
Your truth, not just in your words, but in your eye's and emotions. An amazing story by an amazing young lady. I think you may be helping not just one person, but so many more. Thank you for your honesty and openness.
Very cool story and a massive inspiration for so many people. I hope your channel grows and grows so more people see this who need to learn about a healthy relationship with food and excercise. I'm sure many people must feel it's a never ending cycle but you prove that absolutely is not the case. Brilliant. Cheers!
That's a fantastic, honest, pretty raw and revealing video. It takes a lot of energy and courage to publish this sort of thing. I am sure it will help others going forward and help family and friends of those affected by eating disorders to understand them.
Well done Katie! For opening up on this very personal issue for you. You look lovely. Just keep in mind people who matter love, like you for who you are and not what you look like . Be kind to yourself!
You're awesome 👍🏼 after finding your channel last year it got me back cycling after 30 years and helped squared my head away after struggling with depression. If it's a shit day go see what Katie has to say 🚵♀️
The best , truest video I've ever seen.....I can remember feeling like that on vacation, like feeling obligated to eat because everyone else was , and then immediately feeling guilty just for enjoying food....and like you, when I finally found cycling, it was fun, and I quit caring about my image, I just wanted to ride more....and from riding and enjoying myself I found a completely new life....your words here are so amazing to me...thank you
Thanks for sharing your story. A lot of people suffer alone. To be able to come out the other side and be happy is a wonderful thing. Hope your story is helpful to many other people.
Hi Katie, I’m so, so sorry to hear about your struggles and thank you for being so vulnerable and open to help people. I remember seeing you, your camera and your smile on Deloitte RAB a couple of years ago and it’s so lovely to see you’ve found your calling and your passion. I am struggling at the moment and have been for a long time but have been really helped by my amazing therapist. It seems so important to find the right fit. It feels really hopeful to think there may be something like your bike moment just around the corner. Thank you so much!
Excellent video Katie, the journey to move on from a disorder is a long and arduous one. what this video says to me is that you have done so/are doing so with integrity and not forgetting the suffering of the past. I started cycling a year and a half ago and have followed your channel for a year or so and when I see a video from you I feel happy. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing even it’s a bit over a year old. As i sit here watching. I ride year round only miss a few days after a heavy snowstorm. But I enjoyed watching all your videos.
Bikes and riding makes a huge difference in balance our life psycologicaly,its the best antidepressant,digging deep in cycling,ridding hard through hills,going alone or with friends for a ride,nothing beats that.
I was 268 lbs, at 5'6", not a good or healthy look, when they diagnosed my diabetes T1.5 and thyroid issues and I went out and got a bike. I feel like it changed my life and I KNOW it saved my life. Now 20 years later, I'm having all these health problems and was back up to 230 and I got a smart trainer and a set up Zwift and I"m back on it. I am losing weight again, feeling better psychologically as well as physically, my blood sugar is back in check. I will never allow anything external to me to come back between myself and my bike. Its my magic carpet to a place where I can feel positive and live healthy. Your story is so inspirational to listen to and I just want to tell everyone, as much as you are special, this story isn't. Its not something anyone cant do. If You did it, and I can do it, we can all do it. Bicycles are amazing and there are so many positive people in cycling who will help and talk to you if you just take the leap, go out on a limb and ask. Any time I have ever felt like it was hard on my journey, I have always find some other cyclist who has been there and done that and will take the time to give me advice or a pick me up talk, or even ride with me. Katie you are a rock star! so glad you made this video and I hope it reaches a lot of people who can take it in and find their way out of their dark place.
Katie I'm sure you don't realise how amazing you are. This video was amazing and should be used by the people that help affected people to gave an insight to something that has worked for someone who's been there. Blees ya x
Such a inspirational video, I myself suffer from mental health, a magic pill everyday keeps me mostly on track. However sometimes I loose my mojo and even though I don’t get around to watching all ur films. It always feels like seeing an old friend and never fails to get me buzzing again. Thank you Katie.
Good for you to share this. Everyone has problems.....we just need to overcome them. What else is there to do before we die? The "now" is all we have. Thanks for being brave!
I get down sometimes - I won't say depressed, because I think that word is over used- but going out on the bike always lifts my mood. The release of endorphines, plus seeing the countryside and climbing hills just that little bit faster, well what's not to like about that ? Big hug Katie x
Very inspiring. I fell like, for another whole set of different reasons, running saved my life. I certainly wouldn’t be the same person today if I hadn’t started running, and learned how to enjoy it. You become a different you when you focus on achieving healthy goals. I also cycle and love it. Keep up this great videos!
'[The bicycle] is no longer a beast of steal...no, it is a friend... It is a faithful and powerful ally against one's worst enemies. It is stronger than anxiety, stronger than sadness. It has all the power of hope.' - Maurice Leblanc
I hear you and have seen this in close relatives. You must love, nourish, and respect yourself first and always. That is bedrock and your strength will flow out of you as support for others. Always remember that despite what you may see in front of you, that all is well. Even if you are on your death bed, that all is well.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I have thoroughly enjoyed following your exploits on TH-cam for nearly a year now ; and you've always seemed to be so fit, and athletic, and full of enthusiasm. I would never have guessed that you had been through such bad times ; but I'm sure you have now helped and inspired many people to climb every hill and find their dream.
Katie as usual you are inspirational and think you for sharing your personal journey with everyone. There are so many people who i have come across who should see this video, people who have shared similar stories about weight loss. The other important part for me is that some people really need to get to know who they are rather than what they think they have to be. They all need to ‘throw away’ their luggage and be the person they really want to be. I will be sending this on to a couple of people and I hope they get it! Thanks again for sharing.
I'm so familiar with the problems you endured before buying the bike, I too bought a bike in Nov 2013, life saver, don't ride as often as I'd like but, when I'm down I know a ride will lift me before I fall into the abyss, to some it may seem dramatic, but I've been to the absolute bottom and hospitalised, it's about controlling your emotions with whatever you can, cycling,walking or running are the remedy for a better life, your honesty touched me, its easy to be tough to others and cry alone, the one thing I now know is, get outside for any type of exercise before the illness takes you again, all the best Katie love x
Thank you for sharing. I don’t have the best relationship with food and I know I’m only a couple of steps away from an eating disorder if I am not careful. Just love the way you totally lit up when you got your bike. Such a big decision but clearly the right one 🥰
Thanks Carol. Being honest I don’t think there are many people who don’t have some habits with those food. But it’s great you have noticed that and are able to be conscious of it :)
Thanks Katie for your honesty. Your story is very inspiring. I think you were meant to overcome your eating disorder and find cycling (your c true love!) . Now you get to share that love with us. I know cycling saved you but I hope you know how much you given to all of us in return!
I think it’s very brave of you to tell your story so openly and honestly. Great that you found cycling to help you with your struggle. I recognize a lot of what you have said and cycling also helps me to go through life easier. Maybe this could help others to, great topic. Thanks.
Heartfelt, honest and moving - I hope that you gained even more strength from sharing your past vulnerability that you have morphed into a tower of strength on and off the bike - keep on enjoying the two-wheel journey and sharing it with us. 👍
Im happy that your happy, but the truth of the matter is physically you look great no matter what your weight is/was. You just have to be happy with yourself. SO be the "size" you want to be and don't worry about what anyone else thinks. Keep kicking ass. Love watching your content.
An amazing journey Katie. Your bike rides have been an inspiration but your life ride even more so. Thanks for sharing as I think your comments will help many - I know they are valuable to me.
Thank you so much for this, I'm sure it will inspire and help many people. I know it can be tough to be so open and honest on such a personal topic. Cycling is amazing, if only more people know how much a simple bike ride could transform their lives.
Oh, you've done it again. What a brave video. I kinda knew some of this from stuff you've shared before, but well done for putting it out there. We all have our demons, and we all screw up elements of our lives. One of the downsides of social media is that it's easy to project your life as perfect when it's far from that. You've always been honest, and I think that's key. Cycling is a wonderful way to give yourself self-respect - and it's really worked for you. I hope your story inspires others. Brilliant stuff, Katie. xx
Tim, you're a good un. Thank you. Yeah social media has a lot to answer for so I want to make my small corner of it as open and as honest as possible. Hope you're doing well Tim xx
Thank you for sharing your story Katie. Very honest account of your journey. Sounds like you had what some refer to as a dark night of the soul; which is tough, but with hindsight is where we grow and develop and blossom as you obviously have. Much love and gratitude to you. Xx
"Life constantly presents its greatest opportunity brilliantly disguised as its worst disaster" ..
I love this!!!! Where is this from???
@@KatieKookaburra .....from a guy who was ridiculed for years because of a difference of opinion to the point he couldn't be ridiculed anymore and had two choices, end it or walk through it....he walked through it and all self consciousness dropped away, he stopped completely giving a shit what others thought of him and out of it came the quote....The guy's name is "David Icke", I'm sure you've probably heard of him..... Whether folk agree with him or not his story is mind blowing.... I'm glad you like the quote 🙏
My mental illness has played havoc with my life.
Cycling has been a stable rock.
When I was unable to do anything. I could always get out on a bike.
The excercise. The endorphins. The feeling of achievement. The motivation. The forward planning of a ride. Having to dig deep to get through big rides. Helps build psychological resilience for when days seem dark.
Cycling has been a positive influence and a saviour.
Still, some days are occasionally crippling and debilitating. It's just the way my brain is wired.
But I have bikes.
And they make a huge difference.
Very nicely put. You’ve described in a few words what it would take me a book to say, and then you’d end up confused at the end. Thankyou, and bless you.
Same thing with me. You said it perfectly.
Me too. Well said Gerald ❤
🤗
As I said to a friend not that long ago, cycling is a centering activity for me.
These comments are just so lovely!!!! Thank you for listening and again being an all round amazing and supportive bunch xxx
you are welcome! please share more like these ❣️🙏🏻
Katie, you're amazing and inspiring. Thank you for sharing and for your honesty! ❤️
Your videos are great. I love the enthusiasm. The one about cycling to Devon was fantastic.
edit: I love the point you made about the bike being fun. I started riding to work about 10 years ago after a 20 year break. The first 2 weeks were hell but then something happened (endorphins or something). I started planning all kinds of mad rides (Southampton to Portsmouth, Reading to London, Round the IOW). I don't really focus on the fitness. I just get on my bike and off I go. It's like being a kid again. I stop and talk to random people. I say good morning to people and cheer them up as I go by. Total game changer. Wow, that smile on your face with your bike when you came back from Aus. 100% Pure Joy. Amazing. What was the bike you bought for £600? (answer: Giant road-bike: found in an early video)
Thank you for sharing what you do on this channel! So glad to have found it! ❤
xxx
Thanks for sharing your story , very brave 💪
Bikes are genuinely one of the best inventions. They are an amazing machines and as we get older the ebike will allow us to ride long into our futures.
I can relate..
At 41 years old,
And having a heart problem.
I was told not to ride again, as I used to ride indoor cycling at the Manchester velodrome on a weekend.
My doctors said I was nuts, after having a pacemaker implanted.
I got back on my bike in January 2022 only a few months after leaving hospital, and I'm literally 💯 better for it!!.
"Sometimes we're tested, not to show our weakness,
But to discover our strengths"
The thing that struck me was how the smile appeared as soon as you reached the part about buying your 1st Bike there is something so uplifting about cycling impossible to explain what it is unless it's just fun. Well done for sharing we should all learn that it helps and no one should ever be embarrassed about what troubles them, most people will respect you for showing who you really are.
I noticed exactly that! Love you Katie (from a 72 years old cyclist who is so grateful of discovering cycling also. Almost 5,000 km last year, looking for more in 2021!)
Ahh I noticed too as I watched this back. It really does do it for me. Love cycling and what it's done for me. Thanks for listening, Richard :)
@@KatieKookaburra You are welcome Katie I found it very thought-provoking. I find myself back on furlough today and guess what I shall be doing?
There's times I don't enjoy cycling e.g. cycling into a sleety headwind on a narrow road with no laybys followed by an HGV, but most times I do.
Not "impossible to explain"! One goes elsewhere physically and mentally. Cycling's rhythmical brain pattern is relief from what ails thee. It can bring other helpful distractions too.
The imagery and psychology of dumping all your excess baggage in Australia is strong. Well done!
“One of my favourite things about cycling is that it can reward suffering with joy.”
Lovely video Kate, im 70 started cycling at 60 and always reminds me ' Sometimes it takes a life time to find a life' I couldn't be happier especially as i have a partner with the same interests. Take care.
That is the most beautiful thing. Enjoy.x
"It's the downhill thrills, that make the uphill slog worthwhile..."
Katie it was very kind of you to share that with everyone, it will undoubtedly help someone in a similar position to that which you found yourself in. We need to take care of each other and that's what your videos do
Katie, Not only do you have 50,000 cheering you on from behind you but you also have 50,000 who love you.
Thanks so much Len x
Cycling has saved my life as well. When I was in my late 40s I started riding with my kids on local bike paths. I just kept getting more involved with cycling. At the beginning I weighed 265 lbs and I lost down to 185. Had I not done all this the heart attack that I had 12 years later would have killed me. I still ride but no racing anymore and I have to take it easy but I am so blessed to be able to ride. Keep up your great videos.
I encouraged my wife to watch this video and she's not even a cyclist. Your video has inspired her to buy a bike - thank you.
No worries at all!!!! Hope you have a great time of rides together. Best thing ever a bike x
Thank you for being vulnerable enough to share this. I love that we can have this cycle of give and take through social media. Parts of your story resonate strongly for me. As someone fractionally taller than you, I was always told how “big” I was. I think that word has been quite damaging. In hindsight, I was a healthy weight, but I just saw myself as fat. I still (at 41) have a very complex relationship with food and control, but rather than going down the purging and binging route, my self-loathing played out in self harm for a very long time. Cycling for me has given me a joy I haven’t felt since I was a little kid. Those destructive thoughts and feelings aren’t super far down inside, but cycling and this community gives me a focus and joy that keep me in balance. Thank you for sharing. It makes a real difference for so many of us💚
Your channel is an inspiration to women cyclists like me because you're so warm and human and relatable - and all the more so now that you've shared the struggles which you went through to get here. You should be proud of yourself for being such a lovely person and having the courage to pull yourself out of that dark place. I gave up cycling in my 20s because I got scared of the traffic, but then in the first lockdown last year, overweight and staring into an abyss of depression, I bought a bike on ebay. I completely fell in love with it and couldn't believe how good I felt from riding it and how quickly the depression evaporated. I now cycle at least 100 miles a week and have lost nearly 2 stone without even thinking about calorie deficits. I love it so much and I completely agree with you that cycling is the best thing ever!
Thanks so much Rebsie! 100 miles a week is awesome. So glad you found it again xx
Thank you. I was close to diabetic and my doctor sent me to nutrition education and they spent 80% of the time talking about the E word, exercise! I bought a Schwinn, shed close to 50 pounds and that was 10 years ago. I'm 72 and still ride every chance that I can, I just love the freedom and fresh air. And I have kept the weight off.
Thanks for your wonderful story, Katie. I also owe my health to the bike. Between the ages of about 4 and 10 years, I was plagued by bronchitis after every cold I caught - and children typically catch lots! These attacks had me fighting for every breath I took during long nights of misery - made worse by vomiting, they were awful. I had pneumonia twice, and was hospitalised. Then one summer (I was 10 by then), I took it into my head to learn to ride a bike. The result? An incredible health improvement - in less than a year, the dreadful chest infections stopped. Now aged 72, after all these years I still love riding the bike.
ive tears in my eyes. inspirational and thank you for sharing. im going through a hard time lost my job but my bike makes me feel better
I found your videos last year and could so easily relate to you. I’ve only been riding for three years and got serious about it a year ago. It’s been such a stress relief during a stressful year. I could escape the negativity and stress from my job and do something where I felt strong. I completed my first century in September - my goal was to get three centuries in before my 56 birthday in November. Then five days after riding 100 miles for the first time, I was hit by a pickup truck and thrown under the trailer he was pulling and run over. Spent a week in the hospital with three broken vertebrae and a fractured ankle. Yesterday was Day 100 since my accident and I bought a bike today 😊. Will be putting it on my trainer and getting back in the saddle and building strength before I take my first ride back on the road hopefully by Feb 1. Your messages have been a real inspiration for me. Thank you for all the tips and advice and for your authenticity.
You've come out the other side the better for it. Good on you.
The breakup of a 20yr relationship and the end of my 12yr marriage got me back on a bike after 25years off one.
I just needed to get out the house and occupy myself.
Thanks for sharing. I bought myself a gravel bike last year. I've never owned a decent bike before. It's been one of the best decisions I've made.
Why do we torture ourselves ? Time we all decided “No more secrets”. Great that you are living your life in the light and thanks for sharing. ♥️ your channel keep those pedals turning
This is extremely powerful and something that’s affecting many. Thanks Katie.
Katie, that was amazing! Also amazing that it was all filmed in one take. It reminds me of a Richard Nixon quote which is metaphorically appropriate to cycling: ...Only if you've been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain.
Thanks for sharing and being vulnerable. Many of us need that message of hope. So many things have been chaotic in my life the last few years, but cycling has become almost the only thing that keeps me together.
I’ve not had any experience with eating disorders, but have some other mental health challenges... normalising talking about things like this is so so important, so thank you for using your platform and reach to be so open, honest,and vulnerable, and doing what you can to open up the conversation!
As I already said that you have a beautiful heart, yes we do have difficulties with weight, I am 156 kgs and many other health issues, but your journey is amazing and so motivating, you are doing a great job. I am from India in last few months, I started watching you videos and you have motivated many of us. Thank you so much
People come at cycling from so many directions to get positive results and I'm glad it makes our lives better. I very much appreciate you sharing that and it helped a lot to hear it. Ideally we'd all get to the place you're at.
Katie that was a beautiful thing you just did!!! I know there’s highs and lows even in cycling. You are so awesome for keeping your channel real. Take care Katie and you were always beautiful.
That was so interesting. It is a totally different story to mine and yet there are so many areas where I was saying, "Yep, know that feeling" and "Yep, I did that". I bet a lot of people found their own similarities. Thanks Katie.
17.16 - finding your own path. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for posting this video! I've been thinking of starting cycling and I think this story made up my mind, I'm going to go for it!
Congratulations on becoming the person you are. An awesome video.
all I can say is: you were beautiful before and after... though now you look amazing
I totally relate to this! Cycling has saved me from the darker moments in my life, the friendships, the hard work, the scenery and ultimately the fitness have all given me purpose to go out and ride. Thank you for baring your soul, your are truly inspirational. Chapeau Katie xx
Love you to bits for so many reasons. I always enjoy watching your videos. You’re down to Earth, honest and very open. What I admire most, is you don’t take yourself too seriously and will video yourself when you’re not looking your best, more often than not like a drowned rat or sweaty with your hair all over the place. For a woman to do that takes a lot of self confidence. I and I’m sure most people find that confidence much more attractive than fancy hairdo’s and false nails. Your videos are usually informative or helpful and you always convey your enthusiasm and enjoyment which I find infectious.
Keep doing what you’re doing and keep being you xx.
Thanks for sharing your story Katie. You’re not just beautiful on the outside , it’s your inner beauty and honesty that shines through and makes you even more so! You inspire many and love what you do and do what you love, and are loved by us!!
Thanks Barry you’re a good ‘un :)
hi Katie... my definition for you: a lucky star
and lucky those of us, like me, who have discovered your channel... where this video, and others (like "FAILING to keep up! of 22 February) allow us to see things about ourselves, in a "mirror".
I follow you from Italy
I say thank you for your soul so transparent and so inspiring.
if I already loved the bicycle and the sensations that acting on the pedals transmits...now the angle from which to see those pedals is even better...
thank you for who you are, each of your videos will be a gift!
best bright days to you!
Good on ya, Katie, takes a lot to come out and be so honest with your followers. Keep on sharing how you're feeling. I doubt I'm the only one who appreciates a bit of candour and authenticity.
Thank you!! That really does mean a lot xx
When you ride a bike guaranteed at some point it will make you smile.
😊
Totally agreed, even after a grueling climb🚴.
Only just started watching your videos really enjoyed your encounter of cycling and eating disorder
Cycling has brought balance to my life. Im still overweight, but Im in progress, and I ve come to peace with myself . That was the most important for me, to find peace, and let go the frustration. Your earlier videos gave me great inspirarion, thank You for that aswell!
Oh my days. That was a tough watch, but a brave and inspirational one. Thank you, Katie.
You're so brave to tell your story! It is so comforting to know I'm not the only one who went through similar stuff and it gives me a lot of hope. Thank you, it means a lot!
I've always loved biking but what 2020 did for me is now having 3 more bikes, commuting all winter which I previously didn't do and riding more than I have done in 20 years. It might sound odd, but whenever I am on a bike I can't think of any invention more awesome than a bike, it's perfect in every way, it will be your friend, your trainer, your chauffeur, your racer, your transporter, but most of all, it will be your mentor to living a healthier and happier life.
Amazing lady,been through so much,thanks for being so open and sharing how bad things had been.
Your posts have been inspiring and made me want to get out on my bike more and more.
Thanks Katie for sharing your a strong beautiful lady 😍👍
Thanks for sharing. Bicycling helped and continues to help me in dealing with my depression and anxiety. Getting in shape helped me feel better physically and mentally.
Good for you. So glad you found the answer.
Great Story, Katie, Cycling is pure joy for me. . even on the tough hills . .. .Thank you for sharing your very personal journey. So Relevant. . Glad you've made a living out of your joy. . . and thus sharing your experiences and great tips for all of us. . .Celebrate Life!
Your truth, not just in your words, but in your eye's and emotions. An amazing story by an amazing young lady. I think you may be helping not just one person, but so many more. Thank you for your honesty and openness.
Very cool story and a massive inspiration for so many people. I hope your channel grows and grows so more people see this who need to learn about a healthy relationship with food and excercise. I'm sure many people must feel it's a never ending cycle but you prove that absolutely is not the case. Brilliant. Cheers!
My bikes are like having a great therapist.
Very honest and emotional video, thank you so much for sharing xxx
That's a fantastic, honest, pretty raw and revealing video. It takes a lot of energy and courage to publish this sort of thing. I am sure it will help others going forward and help family and friends of those affected by eating disorders to understand them.
Well done Katie! For opening up on this very personal issue for you. You look lovely. Just keep in mind people who matter love, like you for who you are and not what you look like . Be kind to yourself!
You're awesome 👍🏼 after finding your channel last year it got me back cycling after 30 years and helped squared my head away after struggling with depression. If it's a shit day go see what Katie has to say 🚵♀️
Great to hear some of your story, thanks for sharing.
The best , truest video I've ever seen.....I can remember feeling like that on vacation, like feeling obligated to eat because everyone else was , and then immediately feeling guilty just for enjoying food....and like you, when I finally found cycling, it was fun, and I quit caring about my image, I just wanted to ride more....and from riding and enjoying myself I found a completely new life....your words here are so amazing to me...thank you
Thanks for sharing your story. A lot of people suffer alone. To be able to come out the other side and be happy is a wonderful thing. Hope your story is helpful to many other people.
Your the best Katie! Cycling has changed my life as well and I would say it saved my life in certain ways. Thank you for sharing your story!
Hi Katie, I’m so, so sorry to hear about your struggles and thank you for being so vulnerable and open to help people. I remember seeing you, your camera and your smile on Deloitte RAB a couple of years ago and it’s so lovely to see you’ve found your calling and your passion. I am struggling at the moment and have been for a long time but have been really helped by my amazing therapist. It seems so important to find the right fit. It feels really hopeful to think there may be something like your bike moment just around the corner. Thank you so much!
Excellent video Katie, the journey to move on from a disorder is a long and arduous one. what this video says to me is that you have done so/are doing so with integrity and not forgetting the suffering of the past.
I started cycling a year and a half ago and have followed your channel for a year or so and when I see a video from you I feel happy. Thank you.
OMG what a story! Fantastic. Where’s Harley now? Sell the film rights! Wonderfully told and all strength to you.
Thank you x
Thank you for sharing even it’s a bit over a year old. As i sit here watching. I ride year round only miss a few days after a heavy snowstorm. But I enjoyed watching all your videos.
Bikes and riding makes a huge difference in balance our life psycologicaly,its the best antidepressant,digging deep in cycling,ridding hard through hills,going alone or with friends for a ride,nothing beats that.
I was 268 lbs, at 5'6", not a good or healthy look, when they diagnosed my diabetes T1.5 and thyroid issues and I went out and got a bike. I feel like it changed my life and I KNOW it saved my life. Now 20 years later, I'm having all these health problems and was back up to 230 and I got a smart trainer and a set up Zwift and I"m back on it. I am losing weight again, feeling better psychologically as well as physically, my blood sugar is back in check. I will never allow anything external to me to come back between myself and my bike. Its my magic carpet to a place where I can feel positive and live healthy. Your story is so inspirational to listen to and I just want to tell everyone, as much as you are special, this story isn't. Its not something anyone cant do. If You did it, and I can do it, we can all do it. Bicycles are amazing and there are so many positive people in cycling who will help and talk to you if you just take the leap, go out on a limb and ask. Any time I have ever felt like it was hard on my journey, I have always find some other cyclist who has been there and done that and will take the time to give me advice or a pick me up talk, or even ride with me. Katie you are a rock star! so glad you made this video and I hope it reaches a lot of people who can take it in and find their way out of their dark place.
Cheers Ty! Yeahhhhh you got this 🤍 Get on that magic carpet! Love that name for it, lovely! X
Katie I'm sure you don't realise how amazing you are. This video was amazing and should be used by the people that help affected people to gave an insight to something that has worked for someone who's been there. Blees ya x
Thank you Bob 🤍
Such a inspirational video, I myself suffer from mental health, a magic pill everyday keeps me mostly on track. However sometimes I loose my mojo and even though I don’t get around to watching all ur films. It always feels like seeing an old friend and never fails to get me buzzing again. Thank you Katie.
You are an inspiration to so many people. Thank you for your courage to share your heartfelt story and your service to the cycling community.
Good for you to share this. Everyone has problems.....we just need to overcome them. What else is there to do before we die? The "now" is all we have.
Thanks for being brave!
Fair play to you for getting out of that dark place and turning things around for the good. Vive le vélo!
I get down sometimes - I won't say depressed, because I think that word is over used- but going out on the bike always lifts my mood. The release of endorphines, plus seeing the countryside and climbing hills just that little bit faster, well what's not to like about that ? Big hug Katie x
Very inspiring. I fell like, for another whole set of different reasons, running saved my life. I certainly wouldn’t be the same person today if I hadn’t started running, and learned how to enjoy it. You become a different you when you focus on achieving healthy goals. I also cycle and love it. Keep up this great videos!
Hey Katie.
Nice inspirational video, and thank you for your honesty.
Regards Nicolaj from Denmark 🇩🇰
Powerful and enlightening journey Katie. If it helps one person it’s worthwhile telling. Chapeau👏👏👏
'[The bicycle] is no longer a beast of steal...no, it is a friend... It is a faithful and powerful ally against one's worst enemies. It is stronger than anxiety, stronger than sadness. It has all the power of hope.' - Maurice Leblanc
Extremely brave to tell your story in such an open and honest manner, massive respect! ❤️
I hear you and have seen this in close relatives. You must love, nourish, and respect yourself first and always. That is bedrock and your strength will flow out of you as support for others. Always remember that despite what you may see in front of you, that all is well. Even if you are on your death bed, that all is well.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I have thoroughly enjoyed following your exploits on TH-cam for nearly a year now ; and you've always seemed to be so fit, and athletic, and full of enthusiasm. I would never have guessed that you had been through such bad times ; but I'm sure you have now helped and inspired many people to climb every hill and find their dream.
Katie as usual you are inspirational and think you for sharing your personal journey with everyone. There are so many people who i have come across who should see this video, people who have shared similar stories about weight loss. The other important part for me is that some people really need to get to know who they are rather than what they think they have to be. They all need to ‘throw away’ their luggage and be the person they really want to be. I will be sending this on to a couple of people and I hope they get it! Thanks again for sharing.
You are a beautiful person both inside and out, some story.. best wishes.
I'm so familiar with the problems you endured before buying the bike, I too bought a bike in Nov 2013, life saver, don't ride as often as I'd like but, when I'm down I know a ride will lift me before I fall into the abyss, to some it may seem dramatic, but I've been to the absolute bottom and hospitalised, it's about controlling your emotions with whatever you can, cycling,walking or running are the remedy for a better life, your honesty touched me, its easy to be tough to others and cry alone, the one thing I now know is, get outside for any type of exercise before the illness takes you again, all the best Katie love x
Thank you for sharing. I don’t have the best relationship with food and I know I’m only a couple of steps away from an eating disorder if I am not careful. Just love the way you totally lit up when you got your bike. Such a big decision but clearly the right one 🥰
Thanks Carol. Being honest I don’t think there are many people who don’t have some habits with those food. But it’s great you have noticed that and are able to be conscious of it :)
Wow, such courage to say all of that out loud. You are an inspiration to all. Thanks for sharing
So glad you found your path to salvation on two wheels!!! Your vulnerability is even more inspiring than your endurance.
THANK YOU!!! xxx
Thanks Katie for your honesty. Your story is very inspiring. I think you were meant to overcome your eating disorder and find cycling (your c true love!) . Now you get to share that love with us. I know cycling saved you but I hope you know how much you given to all of us in return!
Beautiful story and the sincerity to share it may help many other people.
Well done for opening up and being brave and sharing your story Katie. It can't have been an easy thing to do. Produ of you!
I think it’s very brave of you to tell your story so openly and honestly. Great that you found cycling to help you with your struggle. I recognize a lot of what you have said and cycling also helps me to go through life easier. Maybe this could help others to, great topic. Thanks.
Heartfelt, honest and moving - I hope that you gained even more strength from sharing your past vulnerability that you have morphed into a tower of strength on and off the bike - keep on enjoying the two-wheel journey and sharing it with us. 👍
What an amazing story, so inspirational. Thank you for sharing ❤️
It takes so much to face the real you and accept who you are.
Im happy that your happy, but the truth of the matter is physically you look great no matter what your weight is/was. You just have to be happy with yourself. SO be the "size" you want to be and don't worry about what anyone else thinks. Keep kicking ass. Love watching your content.
Wonderful, brave, inspiring video. Thank you Katie I've been following your channel over 12 months now and always watch your content.
Thanks so much Steve xx
An amazing journey Katie. Your bike rides have been an inspiration but your life ride even more so. Thanks for sharing as I think your comments will help many - I know they are valuable to me.
Thank you so much for this, I'm sure it will inspire and help many people. I know it can be tough to be so open and honest on such a personal topic. Cycling is amazing, if only more people know how much a simple bike ride could transform their lives.
Thank you for sharing, adventure on Katie
Oh, you've done it again. What a brave video. I kinda knew some of this from stuff you've shared before, but well done for putting it out there. We all have our demons, and we all screw up elements of our lives. One of the downsides of social media is that it's easy to project your life as perfect when it's far from that. You've always been honest, and I think that's key. Cycling is a wonderful way to give yourself self-respect - and it's really worked for you. I hope your story inspires others. Brilliant stuff, Katie. xx
Tim, you're a good un. Thank you. Yeah social media has a lot to answer for so I want to make my small corner of it as open and as honest as possible. Hope you're doing well Tim xx
14:45 that was so sweet I really felt your joy. Thank you for the openness, it will help ppl for sure! *stranger-hug*
Thank you for sharing your story Katie. Very honest account of your journey. Sounds like you had what some refer to as a dark night of the soul; which is tough, but with hindsight is where we grow and develop and blossom as you obviously have. Much love and gratitude to you. Xx