Adrian is a long time member of R1DE and a true gent. At 62, Adrian is retired but from a school age he’s always been into sport and exercise, representing school in football, rugby, basketball, athletics and cross country. Since then, he’s played rugby union for a club and also been an avid fan of climbing, mountain biking, duathlons and running.
In 2010 Adrian did his first Ultra Marathon, The Lakeland 50. A 50 mile route running up and down the Lake District. He caught the bug and has since entered a number of challenges around the country, completing the Lakeland 100 twice! Not only that, he roped his wife Cynthia into it too. She’s completed two Lakeland 50’s on her own and once as a pair with Adrian. Adrian is a member of Calder Valley Fell Runners who go out weekly round the Calder hills but sadly due to an unfortunate injury he’s not been able to run since March 2023. The good news is, Adrian has recently had his operation and we hope he’ll be back to full fitness soon. Here’s what he had to say about R1DE.
How long have you been a member at R1DE?
A member since 2017. I began riding to help my training for longer runs as it uses different muscles and strengthens my core. I am competitive and I enjoy exercise so with my current dodgy hip, spinning is the one exercise I can still do.
What do you enjoy most about R1DE?
I enjoy it for several reasons, the people, the friendliness, the banter, sense of community and the fact it’s like a self help group. I also like the professionalism and passion from the instructors, the way they get you to work and push yourself.
What do you find the hardest about spinning?
The hardest part for me is the same as Maxine stated, FTP’s, not something you look forward to, especially for me now because I am unfit. Luckily, we don’t do them too often.
What advice would you give a new starter?
Make sure your bike is set up right (see an instructor), get to know your gears and do your own thing. Don’t rush to match what others are doing on the leader board too soon. Get a pair of cycling shoes with SPD plates.
Why is R1DE unique?
‘The sense of family’ you get from being there, the passion from the instructors which helps you push yourself, and the leaderboard. You can measure and see improvements accurately as opposed to just turning a knob 1/2 a turn.
What’s your favourite track to spin to?
I don’t have a favourite, they are all good.
Hills or sprints?
Hills over sprints. Fast sprints just tire me out. Maybe it’s like runners, young ones are generally fast, older ones slower but just keep going!
Who would be your dream spin buddy?
I don’t have a dream spin buddy. If I did, I probably wouldn’t be able to talk as I’d be too knackered and out of breath, plus the banging music would drown them out!
