Breeze inspires Liz Lees and her family to get into cycling
This is Liz’s story, told in her own words. Find out how Liz (pictured above with her daughter) came across Breeze by accident, and is now hooked on cycling and encouraging all the family to get involved.
My name is Elizabeth Lees; I’m 37 years old and live in the lovely Midlands town of West Bromwich, home of the mighty West Bromwich Albion (my other passion in life).
When I was in my early 20s, thanks to the joys of pregnancy, I developed some pretty mean varicose veins, which I ignored until I could ignore them no more. In 2012 I went to the doctors and was told I’d undergo a simple procedure that would relieve the pain. Unfortunately it didn’t go well and I was left with clots in my leg, unable to work for a number of weeks. I sat at home overeating and putting on weight. After yet another consultation with the doctor I was told there was nothing that could be done. But I decided I wasn’t going to be a victim any longer and needed to do something for myself. Exercise was the answer, so I joined a gym.
I disliked running machines and steppers, but found I did like the spin bikes – in fact I loved them, I just hated being indoors all the time. So I went down to the garage and pulled out my mum’s twenty-year-old bike. After a bit of work and time spent watching You Tube to learn how to change the wheels, I had it back in working condition. Since then, I’ve never looked back.
My first ride
I discovered Breeze by accident. My daughter had seen Sky Ride Birmingham advertised and wanted to take part. I registered and at the event found out about Breeze. I dragged a friend along with me on my first ride: two hours along the canals of Birmingham, with other friendly like-minded women, and a pub stop along the way. I mean, what’s not to like? I loved it. The summer of 2012 was spent mostly on my bike and my kids often came along too.
A big challenge
Having developed a love of cycling I wanted a challenge to keep focused over the winter months. In a moment of madness I registered to take part in the 2013 London Nightrider, a 100km ride through the night. When I told people, they thought it was a whim and that I’d soon forget it. I had to motivate myself so I took part in Breeze rides in the autumn and then went to spin classes through the winter, cycling in daylight hours at weekends.
On 9 June I completed the ride, very tired with no power left in my legs at all, raising a total of £500 for Save the Children. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but the sense of achievement was overwhelming.
Spreading the word
I’ve also encouraged my children to start cycling. My teenage daughters will quite often ask if we can ride along the canal into Birmingham city centre – that route I first did with Breeze – whilst my sons love the local mountain bike track, zipping past me at high speeds as I merrily cycle at a slow pace.
Breeze gave me the incentive and encouragement to get on my bike, surrounded and supported by like-minded women. I feel like I haven’t looked back since the day I got my mum’s old bike out of the garage. The best bit is that since I started cycling I’ve dropped three dress sizes, feel better in myself and have a spring in my step. Even the kids I teach are encouraging me and moan if I drive into work. I never believed that someone like me – someone who wouldn’t move unless I really had to – could find so much enjoyment in a physical activity, but clichéd as it sounds, I love it!
Inspired by Liz’s story? Find a Breeze ride near you.
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