Seen On TV: Cyclists Who Look Like Me!

I am sitting in my home office, with a run for this afternoon cancelled due to heavy rain (tomorrow is looking better for it), and I am accomplishing two good things in the meantime:

1. I washed and polished my floors (although those tasks were overdue anyway).
2. I am introducing you to All Bodies on Bikes, an organization I heard about this week on a morning TV show.

If you bike, hike, swim, do yoga, or run, AND you’re not a person of a certain size (hand raised here), then you know it’s hard to find nice, comfortable, and attractive workout gear. And it’s even harder sometimes to get psyched for a group run, ride, or workout session if everyone around you seems fitter, faster, stronger, better at this. All Bodies on Bikes (ABOB) understands this mindset, and their goal is an inclusive, safe, and comfortable atmosphere for cyclists of all sizes. Cycling (or any other form of sport or exercise) is meant to be a healthy workout, but it should be done with an attitude of joy and positivity. After all, if you hate it, you won’t do it.

The website offers a variety of resources: podcasts, blogs, book reviews, coaching, in-person events, truly stylish cycling gear sized from extra small to 6XL, and 14 local riding clubs. ABOB isn’t just a social club; the group wants to change the way the cycling industry operates. There is a need for bike shops and merchandisers to recognize the needs of larger riders, and ABOB is offering “Industry Training for Size Inclusion,” backed by General Motors and the League of American Bicyclists. This certification will benefit cyclists, gear brands, and shops; riders know they are shopping in a safe and welcoming space, and the many smaller mom-and-pop shops see an economic benefit.

The 12-member board of directors has some fascinating stories behind their involvement, but they all have a passion for strapping on a helmet and covering the miles, regardless of pace. You can sign up for free (paid memberships at varying levels are also offered), and I highly recommend this site. It’s a pleasure to see acceptance, inclusion, and a genuine “come as you are” welcome extended at a time when our differences are being increasingly demeaned and dismissed rather than celebrated.