Study: Cycling to recover from alcohol or drug abuse

[Juhan]

I was just wondering if anybody else here feels cycling has helped them to recover from alcohol or drug abuse. I am curious based upon my own experience in this regard and as I am doing a study on the topic. Thanks in advance!

 

[growingvegetables]

I was just wondering if anybody else here feels cycling has helped them to recover from alcohol or drug abuse. I am curious based upon my own experience in this regard and as I am doing a study on the topic. Thanks in advance!

Treat the quick-gut-reaction nay-sayers as ... "quick-gut-reaction nay-sayers" .

There's any amount of stuff, easily googled, on the effects of cycling and elements of mental health. Mostly on depression, I think, but why not on the issues you raise?

 

[Markymark]

I would suggest that given the suggested background of the op that joking about alcohol consumption may not be appropriate in this thread.

 

[Crackle]

Mod note:

Echoing the sentiments above, I've removed a couple of posts of misplaced humour and would remind people this is the op's first post and to read it a little bit more carefully.

 

[NickNick]

It's definitely helping me deal with both depression and addiction problems much more effectively and quickly than therapist. I've noticeably come on leaps and bounds since doing regular long rides.

I think some of it is just being out in the open/countryside, which without meaning to come across as too newagey, is good for the soul.

The actual physical exhaustion is also of help by reducing insomnia problems which is a massive trigger/exacerbater with both depression and addiction.

It's also good to have something healthy & positive to eat up spare hours.

 

[johnnyb47]

I can echo my thoughts on the above post of NickNick. I to was in a very dark place mentally last year and cycling has helped in leaps and bounds.

 

[Fab Foodie]

I echo much of @User21629 post. Over the years cycling has kept me sane.
There is as stated much work on the simple rhythmic action of cycling and the benefits for depression sufferers. I suggest the same is true for runners too.
In addition it gets you out, improves health, and generates endorphins.
Then there are the community issues of which clubs, forums etc. form part of our support systems.
All of human life us here at it's very best and sometimes at it's worst.
Alcoholism is a real toughie, maybe the hardest even, as much socialising revolves around drink.

 

[deptfordmarmoset]

I keep my drink problem in balance by cycling to the pub and moderating my intake so I can balance my bike on the way home.

 

[Rooster1]

If this isn't helpful then I don't know what is...

A friend runs a cycling business in the Berkshire village of Twyford and the business is in the grounds of a rehab centre called Yeldall Manor.

So in the summer he / they organised a charity bike ride "Ride for Recovery" for the centre and with people from the centre who are either in the resident programme or volunteers / helpers and their families.

Here is a newsletter from the event

Here's the cycling business Sprocket and Gear

And this is the rehab centre

Sadly I was unable to go as I was away.

In addition to the bike ride, the businesses around Yeldall manor have been training the residents in cycle mechanics and other trades.

I hope this is helpful.

 

[Banjo]

Theres a social side to cycling as well .

Having a shared interest breaks the barriers making friendships possible with people you have almost nothing else in common with.

 

[NickNick]

Theres a social side to cycling as well .

Having a shared interest breaks
the barriers making friendships possible with people you have almost nothing else in common with.

That's a very good point, I'm still building up the courage to join a local club (might sound silly, but after 4 years of v bad depressions where I've gone into recluse mode and broke contact with most friends its a big thing personally, although I'm getting there!) but even on my solo rides, there's something nice about coming across fellow cyclists and exchange some small talk or just a friendly nod of the head as you zoom past.

 

[petek]

Good call NickNick. Cyclists are usually friendly types. I mainly cycle on my own and always have a cake or a pub stop. Had loads of chats with other cyclists and always something to talk about mainly bike-related. Not really a club-able chap but a few of us neighbours , all men; have started going out for a gentle bimble one day a week IF it is fine. Keep up that good work mate, if nowt else and I don't know about you. I sleep a lot better after a bike ride.

 

[NickNick]

I do too, I've made real progress with sorting my sleeping out since I've started cycling regularly.

 

[Fonze]

I think if you become involved in most fitness pursuits it can help with some form of addiction or problems in life as it helps to focus on something.
Cycling especially helps me with getting rid of a lot of issues of the mind.

 

[Juhan]

Thanks for sharing everybody as I found it incredibly interesting. This really is a fascinating subject which is why I actually initiated a study on the topic. So if any of you might be willing to share your story of how cycling fit in to your recovery from alcohol or drug misuse, within a single one off interview, please email me at sportinrecovery@gmail.com for details. Thanks again