Community Influencer Monir: Embracing the Freedom

Lambeth’s Big Shift and Peddle My Wheels’ award-winning scheme Community Influencers has come to an end.

We gave 30 beginner cyclists a bike and followed their journeys throughout the year. We caught up with Monir at the end of their journey to talk about their experience.

Monir calls for residents and businesses to travel sustainably by embracing the freedoms of cycling and pedalling a way to a healthier, happier, and more sustainable future in Lambeth.

Embracing the freedom: My cycling journey in Lambeth

Welcome to the vibrant community of Lambeth, where the cycling possibilities are endless. If you've ever hesitated about taking up cycling, I invite you to join me on a journey through my experiences and discoveries in Lambeth. Over the last 12 months, I've overcome my fears, explored the borough's cycling routes, witnessed the health benefits, and even found my favourite paths to ride. Through this blog, I aim to inspire and encourage the community in Lambeth to embrace the joys of cycling, while highlighting the incredible transformation it can bring to our lives and the environment. So fasten your helmet, hop on your bike, and pedal into a world of freedom, wellness, and sustainability!

Overcoming my fear and gaining confidence on the road

Before I started cycling 12 months ago, my biggest barrier was the fear of riding on the road. The news of accidents involving cyclists and large vehicles made me question how safe it would be to cycle on the roads. However, everything changed when I received lessons from PeddleMyWheels (opens in a new window). They answered all my questions and provided me with valuable tips for cycling safely on the roads. During these lessons, I realised that as a cyclist, I had the same rights as any other road user. I learned to confidently claim my space on the road, especially on narrow single-lane streets. By doing so, I discovered that other road users were more likely to give me the time and space I need, and I have felt safer ever since.

Exploring the cyclist-friendly borough of Lambeth

Lambeth has proven to be an excellent place for cycling. Although the roads can sometimes be busy, the borough offers numerous cycling routes that provide safer and easier access. One of my personal favourites is the route from Clapham South to Waterloo. I have been pleasantly surprised by the increase in cycle parking facilities across Lambeth. Knowing I can always find a secure place to store my bike is reassuring.

Unveiling the health benefits of cycling

Since I started cycling, I have experienced remarkable health benefits. Not only has it helped me maintain a healthy weight and stay in great shape, but it has also improved my overall well-being. As a low-impact exercise, cycling is easier on the joints than other physical activities like running. Additionally, cycling has introduced me to a community of like-minded individuals who share my passion for the environment and healthy living.

Counting the weight loss

Since I took up cycling, I've shed 9kg. Despite having to invest in suitable clothing and accessories, the costs have been outweighed by the long-term health benefits and the joy of shedding unwanted pounds. Cycling has improved my physical fitness, contributed to a positive body image, and increased my self-confidence.

Discovering my favourite cycling Route in Lambeth

Among the various cycling routes available in Lambeth, Railton Road has become my personal favourite. As a low-traffic neighbourhood, this route provides a welcome respite from the congestion of other local roads. While it may not be perfect, fewer cars and a more prominent cycling community make Railton Road an enjoyable and safe route to explore.

Cycling for a cleaner, healthier future

Cycling has not only transformed my physical health, but it also has a positive impact on the environment. I actively reduce my carbon footprint by cycling and contributing to cleaner air. Research conducted by Imperial College London (opens in a new window) revealed that cyclists and pedestrians inhale significantly fewer pollutants than passengers in buses, taxis, and cars. The study found that cyclists were exposed to just 8,000 ultra-fine particles, while bus passengers inhaled nearly 100,000. Cycling allows me to avoid pollution and stay away from exhaust fumes, benefiting both my health and the environment.

Reflections

My cycling journey in Lambeth is an incredible experience, filled with personal growth, health benefits, and a newfound sense of freedom. Overcoming my initial fears and gaining confidence on the road was pivotal. Exploring the cyclist-friendly routes in Lambeth and witnessing the positive changes in the borough, such as increased cycle parking and cycling routes, has only reinforced my passion for cycling. The health benefits and the feeling of being part of a greener solution have made cycling an integral part of my life.

If you're considering cycling in Lambeth, I encourage you to overcome your barriers and embark on your own two-wheeled adventure. Embrace the freedom, join the community, and pedal your way to a healthier, happier, and more sustainable future.

Check out all the support available:

• Anyone living, working or studying in Lambeth can access free cycle lessons through Cycle Confident, just make sure to mention you want it for cargo bike (opens in a new window). 
• If you don’t have a bike yet, you can use Try Before You Bike to trial a bike before committing to buy it. (opens in a new window)
• Or borrow one from one of the OurBike locations around the borough(opens in a new window) (opens in a new window). 
• For a cheap second-hand bike, you can visit a Bike Market held throughout the borough (opens in a new window). 
• Finally, for bike maintenance support, you can visit a Dr Bike session where a mechanic can help you with your bike (opens in a new window).