Cycling Saved Me! My FULL Story.

This one was a pretty tough one to film and I didn't want to cut loads out so it is a longer one. I was encouraged reading all of your stories and how open, honest and vulnerable you were. So I wanted to do the same and talk about some of the toughest days I've ever had to go through. This will - I hope - give any of you going through rough times at the minute encouragement that it won't last forever.
I know you will, but please be kind in the comments. You don't ke
I was in a pretty dark place and didn't see how it would get better. But it did.
If you are struggling, talk about it!
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Or feel free to message me on Instagram.
// Cycling eBook: www.ilikemount...
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hiplok.com/

[@carlrichards9333]

"Life constantly presents its greatest opportunity brilliantly disguised as its worst disaster" ..

[@KatieKookaburra]

I love this!!!! Where is this from???

[@carlrichards9333]

@@KatieKookaburra .....from a guy who was ridiculed for years because of a difference of opinion to the point he couldn't be ridiculed anymore and had two choices, end it or walk through it....he walked through it and all self consciousness dropped away, he stopped completely giving a shit what others thought of him and out of it came the quote....The guy's name is "David Icke", I'm sure you've probably heard of him..... Whether folk agree with him or not his story is mind blowing.... I'm glad you like the quote 🙏

[@paulbirchall148]

I lost my son Feb 2024....and I lost myself. Until I found one of your videos , it's changed my life and I've found myself again. Bought an entry level bike, gradually got the kit and my mental health has improved so much. I can lose myself in a good way out on these lovely irish country roads. Thanks Katie 😊

[@jongraham1452]

So sorry for your loss. Awesome that you have found yourself again through cycling. Enjoy those country roads into the autumn. Cheap turbo trainer for the winter might be a good investment to keep momentum going. Best wishes.

[@kennycube5126]

@paulbirchall148 Lots of love from Wales Paul😁 I hope you're enjoying the cycling in the country side.

[@rlacy1229]

i lost my nephew yesterday. my buddy is gone. i cant

[@geraldmaybebaby1585]

My mental illness has played havoc with my life. Cycling has been a stable rock. When I was unable to do anything. I could always get out on a bike. The excercise. The endorphins. The feeling of achievement. The motivation. The forward planning of a ride. Having to dig deep to get through big rides. Helps build psychological resilience for when days seem dark. Cycling has been a positive influence and a saviour. Still, some days are occasionally crippling and debilitating. It's just the way my brain is wired. But I have bikes. And they make a huge difference.

[@pestandwildlifecontractser5589]

Very nicely put. You’ve described in a few words what it would take me a book to say, and then you’d end up confused at the end. Thankyou, and bless you.

[@nealmont]

Same thing with me. You said it perfectly.

[@BillyBob-uc9zp]

Me too. Well said Gerald ❤

[@061_arsh]

🤗

[@christopheroliver148]

As I said to a friend not that long ago, cycling is a centering activity for me.

[@allangrubb3933]

Lovely video Kate, im 70 started cycling at 60 and always reminds me ' Sometimes it takes a life time to find a life' I couldn't be happier especially as i have a partner with the same interests. Take care.

[@KatieKookaburra]

That is the most beautiful thing. Enjoy.x

[@briemcmillan2029]

Thank you. I just got my first bike. I’m about 50 lbs overweight and I have no idea what I’m doing but I’m going to ride and it’s nice to hear your story.

[@dluvscupcakes]

It’s been 3 years, and I don’t know if you’ll see this, but how’s it going?

[@m20fuzzle36]

I can relate.. At 41 years old, And having a heart problem. I was told not to ride again, as I used to ride indoor cycling at the Manchester velodrome on a weekend. My doctors said I was nuts, after having a pacemaker implanted. I got back on my bike in January 2022 only a few months after leaving hospital, and I'm literally 💯 better for it!!. "Sometimes we're tested, not to show our weakness, But to discover our strengths"

[@markdoyle6414]

Bikes are genuinely one of the best inventions. They are an amazing machines and as we get older the ebike will allow us to ride long into our futures.

[@Zas695]

Mental illness is a MOTHERFUCKER. I'M a depression survivor. You're also a survivor. I'm proud of what you've done. When I was in the dregs of depression I found a quote by Winston Churchill it goes WHEN GOING THROUGH HELL, KEEP GOING. These words helped me when I was in the shit of it.

[@KatieKookaburra]

These comments are just so lovely!!!! Thank you for listening and again being an all round amazing and supportive bunch xxx

[@SimplicityForGood]

you are welcome! please share more like these ❣️🙏🏻

[@margaret-annemacarthur6744]

Katie, you're amazing and inspiring. Thank you for sharing and for your honesty! ❤️

[@hrhbucket4268]

Your videos are great. I love the enthusiasm. The one about cycling to Devon was fantastic. edit: I love the point you made about the bike being fun. I started riding to work about 10 years ago after a 20 year break. The first 2 weeks were hell but then something happened (endorphins or something). I started planning all kinds of mad rides (Southampton to Portsmouth, Reading to London, Round the IOW). I don't really focus on the fitness. I just get on my bike and off I go. It's like being a kid again. I stop and talk to random people. I say good morning to people and cheer them up as I go by. Total game changer. Wow, that smile on your face with your bike when you came back from Aus. 100% Pure Joy. Amazing. What was the bike you bought for £600? (answer: Giant road-bike: found in an early video)

[@postraumaticbadactivist1598]

Thank you for sharing what you do on this channel! So glad to have found it! ❤ xxx

[@lothburke2243]

Thanks for sharing your story , very brave 💪

[@HOBMACHINE]

this took real guts to film and post : thank you so much.

[@theforeigner6988]

My toughest time has lead me to Jesus, thank God. But I love cycling too. And thank you for your videos. Very inspiring 👍🏿

[@paulcochrane1028]

The imagery and psychology of dumping all your excess baggage in Australia is strong. Well done!

[@richardmorgan4485]

The thing that struck me was how the smile appeared as soon as you reached the part about buying your 1st Bike there is something so uplifting about cycling impossible to explain what it is unless it's just fun. Well done for sharing we should all learn that it helps and no one should ever be embarrassed about what troubles them, most people will respect you for showing who you really are.

[@Frits08]

I noticed exactly that! Love you Katie (from a 72 years old cyclist who is so grateful of discovering cycling also. Almost 5,000 km last year, looking for more in 2021!)

[@KatieKookaburra]

Ahh I noticed too as I watched this back. It really does do it for me. Love cycling and what it's done for me. Thanks for listening, Richard :)

[@richardmorgan4485]

@@KatieKookaburra You are welcome Katie I found it very thought-provoking. I find myself back on furlough today and guess what I shall be doing?

[@TimpBizkit]

There's times I don't enjoy cycling e.g. cycling into a sleety headwind on a narrow road with no laybys followed by an HGV, but most times I do.

[@sheepledog4470]

Not "impossible to explain"! One goes elsewhere physically and mentally. Cycling's rhythmical brain pattern is relief from what ails thee. It can bring other helpful distractions too.

[@durianriders]

Still remember that time you met me out at Steve Hoggs place. You should move back to ADL

[@KatieKookaburra]

Harley, I know I've told you this so many times but if it wasn't for you and your advice I wouldn't be where I am right now. So grateful you have always pushed the message so hard... ride bikes, eat all the carbs and have adventures!!! I will be back in Adelaide for sureeeee at some point, I need some sun! :)

[@ryanburrey985]

I wish more people would listen to durianrider. This video was beautiful. Cycling also saved my life.

[@robertwalkerdine1178]

I've recently found his channel. I think most people won't get the humour, but it cracks me up. Sugar and water, what a tip! So simple but makes you think, why didn't I think of that! Lol

[@SprayIgniteBoom]

Thanks for your honesty and sharing this may help someone else find the light that is life. Calorie restriction and carb counting is STUPID. Eat 2 live and live 2 LOVE LIFE!!!!

[@cospinan]

For both of you...you are a great example of how to influence... by example... a great way to touch souls... bringing up so many good things

[@databasenomad]

I'm a digital nomad and an asperger autist - my story is a little bit different but last year with coronacrisis, I started to bike - it is as you say just amazing - to build up my strength again - and as an autist it's a safe space where I can clear my head - thank you for sharing

[@laurencetilley9194]

I used three sports to control body weight. I became addicted to the natural Adrenalin rush gained through running, swimming, and cycling. It was ridiculous the amount of kilometres I was doing a week. I reached a point where I could not maintain optimal body weight. The results were injuries. I took off and travelled internationally for a few years to change my life style, it worked for me. At 65 years old, I am paying the price now with bad knees, hips, lower back vertebrae degeneration. There is a lot to said for getting the advice from professional sport coaches especially when beginning these three disciplines. Thanks for sharing your experiences Katie. ❤

[@gvnrchmnd]

There’s so many enjoyable moments in a single bike ride. The first is that feeling you get as you throw your leg over, sit in the saddle and begin to spin those legs. Riding through landscapes that make you think just how small you are in the world yet lucky enough to be in it. Enjoying a well earned coffee stop. Getting to the top of that steep hill and rewarded with the views and the downhill. Finally pulling up outside your house at the end of a great ride. Exhausted and hungry but elated and content at the same time. Man I love cycling soo much!

[@mmmbbop9351]

😃 what a great comment. I totally agree

[@GazzaView123]

Kudos for opening up, Katie. Respect. "You can't buy happiness, but you can buy a bike and that's pretty close"

[@grahamelliott6041]

“One of my favourite things about cycling is that it can reward suffering with joy.”

[@crgmrgn]

"It's the downhill thrills, that make the uphill slog worthwhile..."

[@georgestamulis1708]

Coronary bypass surgery at 39 years old was the start of my cycling obsession. I know exactly how you feel. Thanks Katie for sharing.

[@andymclarnon7220]

I encouraged my wife to watch this video and she's not even a cyclist. Your video has inspired her to buy a bike - thank you.

[@KatieKookaburra]

No worries at all!!!! Hope you have a great time of rides together. Best thing ever a bike x

[@PeterSdrolias]

As a high school physical education teacher, I am always trying to encourage my students to live a healthy lifestyle. This is usually easier said than done. I used to use scare tactics. This approach was not effective in the long run. So, now I am trying to help them find something that they can get passionate about. That is the key in my opinion. Just like you and your passion for riding. Find your passion and everything will be okay. Thanks for sharing this story. It takes a lot of courage.

[@rh6078]

It's good to hear a phys ed teacher taking a more inclusive approach to sport. Before high school I was very sporty, playing football every day, swimming three times a week, and occasionally cycling on weekends. Then in high school we had very strict physical education teachers, in the sense that they only cared about rugby and how far their rugby team got in the national competition. If you weren't good at rugby then they didn't care about you and this ruined my love of sport for many years. I stopped playing football and swimming and rarely went out on my bike. It was only a couple of years ago at the age of 30 that I truly got back into sport and I love cycling. I really love it now but a part of me laments those lost years. So good luck to you, I hope you can help your pupils find a form of exercise they love

[@philipbarrett3151]

Thanks Peter, I wish we'd had you when I was at school! There Phys Ed was all about winning at stick & ball sports and people like myself who had little interest in either were sidelined & regularly mocked. Even though I was quite an avid rider at the time, it wasn't until years after school I realized that I had unconsciously been keeping myself fit at a sport I was actually quite good at. But I wonder how many were driven away from a lifetime of fitness by the jock attitudes so prevalent?

[@PeterSdrolias]

@@philipbarrett3151 Unfortunately, I am sure that we 'lost' students back when PE classes were more sport based. My.personal experience with PE in my district has always put the students first and we have always emphasized the process of learning rather than the outcome when it comes to fitness and activity skill. We really try and push activities that last a lifetime. Ride on!

[@Mr.Hotman]

I literally had to cry watching this - in a good way. Thank you. Durian Rider? I thought he was worth nothing, but apparently he helped once. A surprise.

[@Stuartrusty]

I cannot remember who quoted it, but it goes something like this, "By sharing our deepest vulnerabilities, we heal not only ourselves, but give others what they need to heal." As is said many times here Katie, it's brave to be vulnerable, open and honest about our deepest personal traumas. I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for having enough courage to put yourself and your story out there with purpose of helping others. I truly believe that's what life is about, being of service to others to help them be their best. I've cycled on and off for 40 plus years and have had some mental health issues and also discovered I am borderline Asperger. I can't pretend I know what it's like to have an eating disorder, but I do know that when I had anxiety depression and anger issues, some of the therapies I had helped. One particular time I remember was that the counsellor asked me if there was anything I had done as a child that really gave me a lift, that really made me feel good and happy. I thought about it for a couple of minutes, and I said "cycling, I haven't cycled for a couple of years and I really loved it as a child." That's when it hit! I need to get into cycling again. So I bought a second hand racing bike from a workmate, and got back into it again! Two months later, I was off medications, depression and anxiety had become easy to manage with all the other things I learned like meditation, mindfulness and yoga. Ten years now depression free, medication free and out on the bike. I am now at the point of having 5 bikes and no car, I cycle pretty much everywhere for everything. I'm so grateful you shared Katie, because it has reminded me just how far you have come, which reminds me how far I've come. Good on yer our kid!

[@KatieKookaburra]

That is INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!! Thanks for sharing too Stuart x

[@Stuartrusty]

@@KatieKookaburra 🤗

[@lenwilkinson8541]

Katie, Not only do you have 50,000 cheering you on from behind you but you also have 50,000 who love you.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Thanks so much Len x

[@patrickclark4068]

Cycling has saved my life as well. When I was in my late 40s I started riding with my kids on local bike paths. I just kept getting more involved with cycling. At the beginning I weighed 265 lbs and I lost down to 185. Had I not done all this the heart attack that I had 12 years later would have killed me. I still ride but no racing anymore and I have to take it easy but I am so blessed to be able to ride. Keep up your great videos.

[@RebsieFairholm]

Your channel is an inspiration to women cyclists like me because you're so warm and human and relatable - and all the more so now that you've shared the struggles which you went through to get here. You should be proud of yourself for being such a lovely person and having the courage to pull yourself out of that dark place. I gave up cycling in my 20s because I got scared of the traffic, but then in the first lockdown last year, overweight and staring into an abyss of depression, I bought a bike on ebay. I completely fell in love with it and couldn't believe how good I felt from riding it and how quickly the depression evaporated. I now cycle at least 100 miles a week and have lost nearly 2 stone without even thinking about calorie deficits. I love it so much and I completely agree with you that cycling is the best thing ever!

[@KatieKookaburra]

Thanks so much Rebsie! 100 miles a week is awesome. So glad you found it again xx

[@joangregg4378]

Thanks for sharing! 💖 I'm on the heavier side of life again and it's really tough to get the weight off. I don't think I have an eating disorder, but I defiantly have bad habits that need to be broken. Hope the fight doesn't become a disorder. Thanks again for sharing.

[@martindaly8683]

I started cycling when I was 14. Found out I was visually impaired when I was around 16. Stopped racing around 18. Now at 50 still cycling and still enjoying it. I don’t feel comfortable cycling in bunch’s. It’s kept me mentally healthy in ways I never thought possible.

[@bobmcpartland439]

Katie it was very kind of you to share that with everyone, it will undoubtedly help someone in a similar position to that which you found yourself in. We need to take care of each other and that's what your videos do

[@keithporter9822]

Thanks so much for publishing this Katie. So much resonated with me and - so importantly - inspired me. I was a very keen cyclist as a young adult, but recent years and battles with mental health, work pressures, job losses and family illness made me seek out quicker fixes. Around this time, I got caught in a mental cycle between “I hate my body” to “I really don’t care” - now I realise both perspectives were destructive and somehow feed into each other. Well guess what - tomorrow I’m going to dust off my poor forsaken Bianchi and head out in the sun 😊 It’s due for 24*C, my daughter is back at school so I’m going to ride like I’m 16 again. No cares, no worries, just a couple of bidons and a few little treaty things. Then we’ll see where I go from there. Keep up the amazing work - your channel is wonderful and clearly inspires so many :)

[@deblordoutdoors5783]

Thank you for being vulnerable enough to share this. I love that we can have this cycle of give and take through social media. Parts of your story resonate strongly for me. As someone fractionally taller than you, I was always told how “big” I was. I think that word has been quite damaging. In hindsight, I was a healthy weight, but I just saw myself as fat. I still (at 41) have a very complex relationship with food and control, but rather than going down the purging and binging route, my self-loathing played out in self harm for a very long time. Cycling for me has given me a joy I haven’t felt since I was a little kid. Those destructive thoughts and feelings aren’t super far down inside, but cycling and this community gives me a focus and joy that keep me in balance. Thank you for sharing. It makes a real difference for so many of us💚

[@meadows408]

Thank you. I was close to diabetic and my doctor sent me to nutrition education and they spent 80% of the time talking about the E word, exercise! I bought a Schwinn, shed close to 50 pounds and that was 10 years ago. I'm 72 and still ride every chance that I can, I just love the freedom and fresh air. And I have kept the weight off.

[@snafujag100]

Brave girl, bearing your soul to us.✌️Ride on.

[@johnshaw8013]

You've come out the other side the better for it. Good on you. The breakup of a 20yr relationship and the end of my 12yr marriage got me back on a bike after 25years off one. I just needed to get out the house and occupy myself.

[@gam1471]

Thanks for your wonderful story, Katie. I also owe my health to the bike. Between the ages of about 4 and 10 years, I was plagued by bronchitis after every cold I caught - and children typically catch lots! These attacks had me fighting for every breath I took during long nights of misery - made worse by vomiting, they were awful. I had pneumonia twice, and was hospitalised. Then one summer (I was 10 by then), I took it into my head to learn to ride a bike. The result? An incredible health improvement - in less than a year, the dreadful chest infections stopped. Now aged 72, after all these years I still love riding the bike.

[@weegiewheeler]

ive tears in my eyes. inspirational and thank you for sharing. im going through a hard time lost my job but my bike makes me feel better

[@loriross5653]

I found your videos last year and could so easily relate to you. I’ve only been riding for three years and got serious about it a year ago. It’s been such a stress relief during a stressful year. I could escape the negativity and stress from my job and do something where I felt strong. I completed my first century in September - my goal was to get three centuries in before my 56 birthday in November. Then five days after riding 100 miles for the first time, I was hit by a pickup truck and thrown under the trailer he was pulling and run over. Spent a week in the hospital with three broken vertebrae and a fractured ankle. Yesterday was Day 100 since my accident and I bought a bike today 😊. Will be putting it on my trainer and getting back in the saddle and building strength before I take my first ride back on the road hopefully by Feb 1. Your messages have been a real inspiration for me. Thank you for all the tips and advice and for your authenticity.

[@justinbartley5245]

Doing any exercise you really enjoy often, virtually guarantees becoming miles better physically & mentally,well done pal👍

[@SprayIgniteBoom]

I’ve overcome drug and alcohol addiction a few times in my life (I’m 41 now). Finding and understanding what makes you go down those roads is crucial to permanent positive change. In ‘08-‘10 I had a relapse w/alcohol and ended up in the ER w/.24BAC. My wife gave me a choice stay and be sober or continue and leave. I ate like a zombie 🧟‍♂️ and continued smoking 🚬 BUT I reconnected w/outdoor sports. Being sober in ‘Wine Country’ (an expat living in Italy 🇮🇹) with the alps right here I started mountain 🏔 climbing 🧗‍♂️. Which, combined with cycling led me to quit smoking in ‘17. I don’t preach 2 much 2 others but I do offer realistic advice and call a spade ♠️ a spade (which is why I like Durian Rider’s channel). Thanks 4 sharing and keep shinning!!! 🇺🇸🇮🇹👍☀️

[@marktownend3782]

This is your best clip ever. I don't know where 2 start. I've always thought things had been bad 4 u before, you could tell. Your a beautiful lady and, more importantly a genuine lovely person. It's made me sad what you went through and I don't like to think of anybody feeling they have to look a certain way or have certain things....... We should run our own race. People judge us, and, maybe more importantly, we judge ourselves. I've never had an eating disorder, but boy do I know what it's like to have zero self esteem and all that entails. I actually genuinely don't believe I will get out of this horrible, horrible situation I'm in, mentally, and that is really scary. Thankfully nobody knows me on here as I've never really said how bad it is. But you showed some real guts doing this and hopefully I can fi D some of that strength and belief.

[@JackBrady]

Mark Townend I really hope you get to get to that point where you feel safe enough to talk to someone soon Mark. I’m sure it must be a scary and lonely place you find yourself in but when you can take that step, the next ones don’t feel so hard. All the best mate

[@KatieKookaburra]

Mark, talking does help so if there is anyone you can share this with please do. I felt so so bad and didn't know what the answer was and you don't need to know what it is right away. Just a day at a time. Do the things you love. ride bikes, walks, food with friends. Make sure you're eating well and sleeping well too. And of course getting out on the bike when you can. x

[@marktownend3782]

@@JackBrady thanks 4 taking time 2 reply

[@marktownend3782]

@@KatieKookaburra thank you 4 taking time 2 reply

[@marstepehenso]

Katie thank you I went on my first ride yesterday after decades of no exercise and drowning my feelings with alcohol. When I finished the ride and packed up I felt grounded and happy, a lovely special treat thta I gave myself, I wept because I understood I had come home to myself. Thank you for your supportive videos

[@craigjohnson2650]

You are such a brave and inspiring person, to revisit your past and demons to help and inspire others is truly commendable. It is such a lonely and dark place when you are at rock bottom, and so so difficult to find the help and energy to get your mind to restructure itself. EFT helped me so much, and I’m sure your are helping many others out there. Thank you so much Katie

[@BeMoreDog]

I found your story one of the most authentic I have heard. Congratulations on making a film showing such a raw and vulnerable story . I hope many young women see this and can avoid the suffering from the pain of disordered eating I have a similar story and still battle those mean demons every single day. I would love to eat naturally and not dictated by eyeballing each option by calorie count some days I succeed and I will never give up on that quest. I wish I could unlearn the number of calories in every food item ! On a cycling note i love all my bikes they make me feel like a kid massive Grins but I have removed calories from my garmin so that I can’t see them clock up. Big trigger

[@karenharrison9786]

Thank you so much for sharing your personal story Katie! It takes a lot of courage to do this. I started watching your videos last summer when I started cycling. I was so touched by your openness, inclusivity and genuine love for cycling. You have always been a beautiful person no matter what the scales said. That kind of inner and outer beauty never goes away, it just keeps on shining 🌟

[@KatieKookaburra]

Thank you so much!! x

[@donaldmcgill5751]

Hi started watching your videos but did not know your story until today inspiring story I have started cycling a year ago at the age of 61 and 130 kg now 98 kg and at the start did not feel I should have been on a bike because of my weight but kept it going now upto 100 miles a week I work 4 - 12.5 hour days and do 20 miles a night after work the strength energy it gives you it’s great I do things now and don’t leave it for another day you’re helping a lot of people cheers

[@primus7776]

Thank You so much for this: I'm 65, and cycling has been a recurrent "go to" in my life. Having been involved in so many adventure sports (surfing/windsurfing/paragliding/scuba diving/ climbing, etc.) Cycling has been by far the most reliable, healthy motivating and uplifting recourse. I can relate to your story, albeit for different reasons. Thank You again. You are incredible.

[@OverTheHillPhil]

Thank you for sharing your experience and journey. Welcome to cycling. "It's not the mountain ahead of you that wears you out - it's the grain of sand in your shoe".

[@brucedunston625]

Your struggle is what got me watching as I was fighting my own demon. I use to think if I could only tell that young girl how much she is helping me. So now, years later and living a different life, Thanks Katie!!

[@grahamelliott6041]

Well done, the bike and cycling really are the best thing for physical and mental health

[@paulcollins4932]

Why do we torture ourselves ? Time we all decided “No more secrets”. Great that you are living your life in the light and thanks for sharing. ♥️ your channel keep those pedals turning

[@iansands3673]

Hi Katie, I was a messed up kid from a divorced family and found refuge in running every morning before school...loved cycling too and the Tour and all that, but running early before school changed me from chubby teenager to ultra marathon runner! Thanks for sharing your story!

[@stephenflower2486]

EVERYBODY has inner demons which some overcome easily and some struggle with. don't beat yourself up. give yourself a break. we are none of us perfect.

[@vincentssoul2369]

changes comes when starting to listening own heart, I'm 60+ and last summer I made first bike touring trip with all camping gear, 2100km in 19 days , and I want to continue

[@roberttengler7100]

Honestly you’re pretty much a badass. Anyone who craves a good healthy dish of hill climbing over and above just about anything else is a badass. Keep doing what you do. It has a positive impact.

[@RossMcgowanMaths]

17.16 - finding your own path. Thanks for sharing.

[@tarunarora4889]

As I already said that you have a beautiful heart, yes we do have difficulties with weight, I am 156 kgs and many other health issues, but your journey is amazing and so motivating, you are doing a great job. I am from India in last few months, I started watching you videos and you have motivated many of us. Thank you so much

[@lenkomsa1399]

My God that was so brutally honest it was painful to watch. I’m wishing you all the best Katie.

[@leonidas8601]

Wow. That took so much courage. Thank you for sharing. You give so much back to this community. I actually had tears in my eyes watching this video.

[@gilbertnadeau7181]

Good for you Katie! I have someone very close to me who went through this at a very young age. For me at 55 years old I was 230 pounds and not happy at all with how I looked and felt. I got back on the bike, started eating better and now at 58 I am hanging at right around 195. My job has me traveling so I bought a travel case and pack a bike where ever I go.

[@AndyPhotos]

Katie, that was amazing! Also amazing that it was all filmed in one take. It reminds me of a Richard Nixon quote which is metaphorically appropriate to cycling: ...Only if you've been in the deepest valley can you ever know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain.

[@andyoffler3494]

The hardest thing as a human is honest self reflection and telling others about their difficult times. We need more role models like you

[@dolphinsupernova]

Life can often be so hard & I think many of us suffer in silence thinking there is no one to turn to. The loneliness is ever present even if surrounded by friends or family as no one could possibly help or understand - or so they might think. It's awesomely brave & honest of you to open up like this and takes guts. So many struggle with issues alone thinking bad thoughts about themselves if they open up or admit their pain. Kudos & the insight is humbling.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Thanks Adrian x

[@reliikki]

Thanks for sharing. I bought myself a gravel bike last year. I've never owned a decent bike before. It's been one of the best decisions I've made.

[@Wyliedawg]

In getting yourself to where you are now compared to where you were just a few short years ago you've QOM-ed the toughest mountain you'll ever stand at the base of - you changed your life for the better and you're absolutely glowing because of it. Congratulations Katie, it took a lot to make that video but that's just a drop in the bucket compared what you did for YOU! You're an inspiration to so many and loved by all!

[@carlhammond2288]

That's a great story Katie, cycling can help in so many ways, I lost my wife of 52 years old two years ago and although I wasn't new to cycling I certainly got more involved with it by joining a club and the Audax organisation and it really has helped me with dealing with the grief of losing someone so special. It gave me something to focus on and think nothing now of doing a 200K Audax, who knows I might do a 1000K one day!

[@edwin_slager]

You have come a long way, you must be very proud on yourself. An example for many people. Awesone 👊🏻

[@eloypinera5130]

Thanks Katie. It is difficult to stand in front of a camera, in front of thousands of people and expose your problems with eating (or any other). Many people can see themselves reflected in your feelings and find hope, either in the form of a bicycle or other ways that help them get out of their pain. On the other hand, I believe that each day is an opportunity to start a new life without the heavy burden of the past. You are Katie, a charming and adorable woman and there is no need to tell more, but now I can feel that every time you smile you do it twice. One for the present and one for the past that brought you to the present. Thank you for your moving testimony and forgive my poor English. I am writing to you from the north of Spain.

[@peterhaslam5275]

Even more of an inspiration if that's possible.

[@whichypoohs]

This is extremely powerful and something that’s affecting many. Thanks Katie.

[@John-un2co]

Katie that was a beautiful thing you just did!!! I know there’s highs and lows even in cycling. You are so awesome for keeping your channel real. Take care Katie and you were always beautiful.

[@TheHillhunter]

Lovely story and a wonderful ending Katie. I re-acquainted with cycling when I was almost 51 on my old Gary Fisher Tassajara. Then I bought a Ribble Audax about a year later and got started on road cycling - for real. I love what cycling gives me and it also keeps me in my best frame of mind. Even though I am now 56 I plan to cycle as long as God spares me (lol). I am also a DurianRider fan having found him before I knew about you and really enjoy his message. Keep on spreading the news, you have done great work in this video and it has helped me so much today. Thank you. ps: JimmyH has followed you on Strava and would be so motivated by a follow back!

[@ChiccoMusic12]

Thanks for sharing, that was truly inspiring.

[@michaelayliffe7238]

The mind does strange things, even so in a pressured world but free of mind and spirit is an absolute gift. Norton Summit is a grind of a climb, you must have had the focus and power all along, then it was revealed, tight tyres.

[@cardiaccyclist7477]

That was so interesting. It is a totally different story to mine and yet there are so many areas where I was saying, "Yep, know that feeling" and "Yep, I did that". I bet a lot of people found their own similarities. Thanks Katie.

[@getluckywithshelly6496]

not many people who succeed are willing to give credit to people who helped them especially when those people are unpopular like Durianrider. Kudos to you Katie❤️. Freedom warrier!

[@estebanmunoz7486]

all I can say is: you were beautiful before and after... though now you look amazing

[@yetifanuk]

Its mountain biking for me, really helps. Got me out of a real downward mental path after a divorce. Mountain biking is a bit more relaxed and fun. I do a run to wales every month (lockdown permitting) and just love the contrast with normal city life.

[@bmxcommentator]

Tell you what - the 'Katie that came back from Oz' and 'Katie now' look like two completely different people... fair play for putting the story out there, it takes some guts to do that.

[@KatieKookaburra]

The Katie that left for Oz was definitely a different person. The one that came back was in LOVE with cycling! Weird talking about myself in the third person haha!

[@tolulopeobe]

Oh my god, this is so relatable. I started cycling in April to lose with, and I have lost a lot of weight, went from 116kg in April to 85kg in December and I am now obsessed to lose more, I get on the scale sometimes and I’ve probably gone up 500grams and I’d be so stressed about it and eat a whole lot that day or even had a pretty hard ride but because I weighed slightly more than I wanted the next morning, I’d force myself to go out and ride again to just to burn calories even though I haven’t recovered properly. It’s so difficult staying sane with this. I am convincing myself now to just enjoy being more active and athletic and not be bothered by the scale, it’s not easy but possible. Thanks Katie

[@farfromthesoul]

It's important to never focus on your weight as a number that needs to go down. Instead focus on the improvements such as how you look and feel even if it's small progress it's still progress.

[@lesalley2086]

Thankyou for Sharing this Katie, I am a keen motorcyclist but due to lockdown last year I was restricted to what i could do, so having an underused hybrid push bike in the shed I set about going on daily rides, short at first but after a few months of getting used to it again I suddenly realised how much I missed it from when I were a lad, such freedom and discovering a cycle network around where I live well that was the best. I am glad that you discovered your self through cycling and long may it continue. x

[@glennpettersson9002]

When you ride a bike guaranteed at some point it will make you smile.

[@BlaqRaq]

😊

[@discoverVNmusic]

Totally agreed, even after a grueling climb🚴.

[@murraymcavey4179]

Well done, I have cycled all my life, the one thing , that has got me through my troubles from my wife killed over seas , by an army invading the country she was passing through in a buss , to broken relationships , loosing jobs , and now at the age off 79 years old I am still healthy and fit enough to cycle 80 to 100 kms every day it is not raining . Cycles are beautiful machines. well done Katie keep it up

[@kevinadams1049]

You have nearly 100,000 views on this video , YOU have helped nearly 100,000 people , I have a story about childhood stuff , being heavy or thinking I was and my bike was all I remember having , then addiction , suicide , institutions (help) recovery , a pension for PTSD and other disorders , now I'm 56 , I love bikes , I have sold many during Covid , and re-invested in new bikes , I was looking for the best bike shoes and I found you . You're are an instant inspiration , Thank You .

[@johnstygall860]

You are a beautiful person...a true inspiration..thank you for sharing your story

[@Saurabh_Good]

Thanks for sharing.. so much helpful.. not every one is going to get up at 4 am and hit the gym.. transform our body in 30 days . lot of us struggle with our own demons and pressure of life... There is still awareness about alcoholism and smoking but still not much about eating disorder. many of us do stress eating or binge eating and it slowly strengthen it's grip on us to the point where we starts to see it as a need and its hard to distinguish between comfort eating and binge/stress eating... and I feel the only way to understand and start solving is by listening to people who suffer from it and got better.. So thanks it helps.. it takes time to find our own path.. its important to keep moving ..

[@danandkiko]

Thanks for sharing and being vulnerable. Many of us need that message of hope. So many things have been chaotic in my life the last few years, but cycling has become almost the only thing that keeps me together.

[@kevincross9206]

Good on you Katie, and quite brave to open up this way, but clearly you genuinely want to help others who maybe struggling. Being out there, be it on a bike or running or even walking is a “freeing” experience, and certainly know that the running community is a tight one.

[@craigtucker5432]

Only just started watching your videos really enjoyed your encounter of cycling and eating disorder

[@Feline-philosopher]

I got myself a decent entry level gravel bike, and it dawned on me that i had found a hobby that exited me somewhat. Great deal of mental heaviness is lifting, and a daily qi gong practice really balances out all the cardio. Was watching a philosophy video a few months back, about how humans have co-evolved with creating tools. We use the tools, but in a way, they use us. So that new gravel bike will form my physiology and mental outlook over time. Great video btw, can see glimpses of those hard times as you recall your difficulties. Really inspiring to see people turn things around for themselves.

[@SamGrayPlus]

Hi Katie, you were kind enough to share my cycling story on the ribble blog, cycling as part of recovery from Crohn’s disease. Before I was diagnosed, I hid my symptoms and struggled with depression for 4 years, unsure of a way out. It got so bad that I ended up in hospital, almost dying from sepsis. It was only when I talked about it that things started to get better. Having struggled with food whilst at university, I was never diagnosed with an eating disorder but I was on a binge and purge cycle for sure. Mental health IS physical health and this has been one long journey for me. Sharing your story is very brave and important. As part of a commitment to my recovery, I’m talking more and sharing my experience and opening myself up to be talked to by others. Many people will be very grateful for you doing this. Thank you.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Sam!!! Yes of course. Thank you for sharing too. You will be helping so many others. It's hard to admit we aren't all perfect but what's the point if we aren't helping others. That's all I want to do. So glad that beautiful bike of yours is helping. :)

[@BOTG_Adventures]

Your to blame for global warming.... cause you could melt icebergs with those eyes.. Joking aside Koo, You have done a few videos on this topic now, are you still worried about weight? you look in great shape, seem bubbly and healthy and have a great loyal following. Feels like a grey area you can't let go of?

[@trikesalot771]

I absolutely love your accounts of your life journey, the trials and tribulations you faced along the way, and more importantly the steps you have taken to achieve an active, healthy, and energetic life style. I can totally related to your story, as I too had an eating disorder, sedentary life style, and generally low esteem. One morning at the age of 32, I woke up, sat at the edge of the bed and couldn't believe how lethargic I felt, and it seemed that every joint in my body hurt. It was then I decided to make changes to my life style as well. To make a long story short, I'm now 73, have a decent diet, ride 20 to 30 miles a day, lift weights 3 times a week, swim 3 days a week, and I can honestly say I feel better now than when I was in my 30"s. Making the right decisions, staying committed, and having a great outlook on life can certainly improve ones self identity and esteem. Thank you again for your inspirational videos, keep making them as I every once in a while I view them to keep me headed down the right path! You are amazing! 😎👍

[@MrGmooney]

The bike saved me as well,it was the one thing that helped me through a dark tunnel, period of my past life.l have been in love with Pedal Power now for over 50 years. So anyone out there going through hard times,get going on the bike. We prefer Pedal Power. PS, Katie, you re looking fab,fit and healthy and beautiful.

[@joefenech6839]

It’s amazing how a solution to a problem can produce unforeseen benefits. Biking has this out come for me too. For me, concentrating on the road, enjoying the outdoors, and the satisfaction of reaching goals and destinations make bike rides more fulfilling than I ever expected. Glad you ended up on a bike!

[@montylikesbeer]

Hi Katie, you have shared an incredibly personal story which I am sure we all deeply respect. Social media has the power to destroy and be negative, however your channel is the polar opposite. It is about positivity, sharing, understanding the complexity of the modern life we all experience, so thank you. Thank you for being brave and providing a touch stone for us all. Happy trails

[@CoachCoreyQueen]

Sincerely, Thank You so much for sharing your story and being vulnerable. Much love ❤️

[@phillipsprangiii3112]

Thank you for this. Went to Europe at 16, for two weeks...and came back to the states 3-1/2 years later. Started off in Holland, on foot/trains, the usual low budget travel in the first coupla months... bought an old Bianchi while visiting my uncle in Innsbruck for at the time the equivalent of $30.00; Campagnolo everything on a classic ex-racing bike my uncle's friend basically gave to me. Rode it over the Brenner pass through Germany (Oktoberfest in Munchen...slept in the woods; no lodging to be had) and eventually to England, where I spent my formative years. Kept the bike, but quit riding until just recently (last coupla years here in Oregon...) and I love it ! Your story is, as well, truly inspiring...Hauling my 16 stone ass up hills both ways is renewing my resolve to get it back to 14 quick as possible...I'm determined to live upright and viable well into my 80's-90's. As of this viewing, another subscriber. I think my beloved will appreciate the results, by the way. Here's hoping.

[@allanwilliams1325]

This Video Really Got To Me. I Have Been Riding Some 30 Years. Before I got My First Proper Bike, I was a borderline Alcoholic. The first 12 Months on A bike were really tough. But it was well worth it. Now I Feel terrible if I Don't get out on the bike. Keep On Riding. You Are an inspiration.