How Quitting Alcohol Transformed My Cycling

[@jazzfan7491]

This is inspirational

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

🤜❤🤛

[@slyisabadass]

Dude! And then you pulled out the SG and played some power chords. Hell Yeah!

[@stevewalther2293]

I enjoyed an occasional glass of wine with a meal. No biggy...now I eat a lot of cheesecake...😊

[@VincentLyon]

The timing of this is serendipitous. I am 5 days sober. That isn't very long, but it's the longest for me in years. I think this is the way for me. Thank you for sharing.

[@inthebush3]

It is the way. Keep going it only gets better and one day you will wonder why you ever drank.

[@saskhiker3935]

Good for you. Keep it up!!

[@crashymoto]

Great job!! Day by day 😎👍🏻keep it up.

[@matthewshaw3747]

You’ll feel great in a few weeks. Wonder why you ever did it.

[@clement6977]

I’m proud of you

[@danielsweeney4557]

6yrs sober and counting as of Jan 1st. Definitely one of the biggest transformative decisions of my life!

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

Congratualtions Daniel!!

[@Gary_G]

Well done. Fabulous.

[@Flyingredcactus]

Congrats for your determination

[@1984-i1w]

year 11 for me

[@MW-ud8zp]

Dude, quitting alcohol has been hands down one of the best changes I ever did in my life. I didn't even drink that much and it still made a huge difference.

[@theymademepickaname1248]

Same. I'm only 12 days in, and I already notice more stable moods and better mental clarity. I was only drinking a few beers on the weekends.

[@CSP66970]

Strikes me that quitting alcohol is kind of like raising your hand to ask a question when you don't understand a thing that the teacher is saying in class; In that moment, you are certain that you are the ONLY one who doesn't understand....you're just certain that you are going to look weak and stupid by admitting it and asking for help. Meanwhile the reality is that you were the only one in the room who had the courage to act when 99% of the room felt the exact same way. Thanks for raising your hand Dustin!

[@jcmuellner]

I really like your analogy @CSP66970. I've been increasing my no alcohol periods over the past few years and three weeks into this one am really not interested in going back. Just the emotional stability and removed regret has been really refreshing. I come from a very alcoholic family and am currently caregiver to an 89yo alcoholic father, so being dry has really helped me cope with the stress.

[@richardbarnhill4794]

@@CSP66970 this is the best summation on this topic that I've seen. Definitely going to reuse this metaphor!

[@brittweir8844]

Perfectly said

[@sbellosa]

quit drinking January 2024, lost 40 lbs. beat cancer, bought Zwift ride for the winter months in Pennsylvania, started TRT. I work in Landscaping, I'm 69 and feel great, and a can of anything IS a great hack. Thx Dustin. Great job.

[@christianCarbstrong]

Great story! Keep up the great work! Add me zwift ❤see ya on the pedals 😊

[@cory1newton]

Good grief dude, way to go! Like a complete turnaround.

[@christopherbrill9696]

hell yeah

[@mruizsr]

Fuck Yeah!! Congrats, Man!!🙏

[@High_Octane]

Did 6 weeks sober a few month back. Everything Dustin mentioned and more. I struggle with Anxiety and I really think 60% of my struggle comes from alcohol. Holidays came and ya know... I am currently on my way back chasing that feeling I had after 6 weeks without a drink. it seems..... soberness has become the drug I crave. Wish me luck peeps.

[@richardp6461]

Good luck to you.

[@ethanswanson9209]

Good luck, stopping alcohol definitely helped with my anxiety.

[@High_Octane]

@@ethanswanson9209 That's lovely to hear. Thank you.

[@rug212]

Good luck! You can do it. I promise it’s worth it. And the longer you go the less and less you think about it. It gets easier. I promise!

[@Gary_G]

I used to have crazy anxiety. I meditated on what Jesus said about peace. I hope you are able to overcome anxiety and achieve peace.

[@kborn-jw2ew]

Stopped alcohol last July, changed my diet, dropped 40 lbs and haven't even started cycling yet. Yes I've been researching for a gravel bike. 2025 is gonna be awesome!

[@CyclingaroundRioRancho]

Check out direct to customer manufacturers like Ari Shafer and Lauf Seigla. More bang for your bucks.

[@Gary_G]

Good job! Keep it going.

[@roddas26]

Check out your LBS and buy from them and create a relationship with the staff/mechanic. ❤ Buying from bigger known brands tends to lead to less hassles in the long run too.

[@Gary_G]

@@roddas26 Yes, it is good to buy a bike from a LBS. I test rode about a half dozen or at 3 different bike shops. Bought one from the second one.

[@geoffersmaher]

awesome man, congrats, its a game changer. this is goinna be your year.

[@juliapoelstra3624]

I'm so glad your friends didn't care. I definitely had one friend that did care. In fact, she was part of the reason I decided to quit. Sometimes you do lose people over it but it's for the best

[@mruizsr]

💯 - Misery loves company🚫

[@baterizmo]

Being a musician I've been an alcoholic most of my life (in 20+ years I may have had 10 nights sober), I quit drinking (and drugs of any kind) 8 months ago...best thing I've ever done. And if I knew it was that easy I would've done it a lot sooner.

[@Gary_G]

Well done keep it up!

[@levinpugsley9256]

Bravo! I share a similar story and can relate, it feels like a new found freedom

[@daniellarson3068]

I saw he had an SG guitar in the shots. I would think it would help with your playing.

[@skyriminspace]

It's easy when it's the right time.

[@geoffersmaher]

what a streak, stay strong brother, similar story myself. 7 years sober and its worth the grind trust me.

[@WGK21]

This March will mark one year sober for me. I’m 40 years old and had been drinking since I was 16. Aside from my obsessive mountain biking hobby, I also had a home brewery. Just like you said in the beginning of your video. “ It wasn’t adding anything to my life“ If it doesn’t add to your life in a positive way physically, mentally, spiritually, or beyond, get rid of it. Thank you so much for making this video 🙏🏻 Ps. For anyone struggling with taking a break or staying sober, I highly suggest you read Alan Carr‘s book “how to stop drinking“ it was a game changer for me, and many others.

[@1115dexter]

Sparkling water gang 🧊 🍋‍🟩 💪

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

YESHHHHHH

[@djamison]

Topo Chico for the win!!

[@josephlaviolette146]

I bring a cooler of seltzers to group rides. All the homies reach for a Waterloo instead of a beer now

[@tzrunnerau]

✋same here!

[@markbayhon]

This a very good idea. I am avoiding alcohol as much as possible

[@davidgissiner9677]

March will mark 5 years of sobriety for me, and I am so stoked on life! I immediately started sleeping much better, and no longer felt crappy all the time. My anxiety improved, and I have more FUN in general! Sobriety also opened the door to running for me (was never a runner before) and also greatly improved my cycling. I am signed up for my first 100 mile running race this summer, and could have never dreamed of such a thing before. Sobriety also has changed my body in great ways. I gained lots of healthy muscle weight, have more energy, and look better now. I love being sober so so so much!

[@johnnydarko8031]

Kudos.

[@BillReno]

Dustin, your facts about sleep and other items are a correct benefit. I approached it slightly different. I quit drinking and to replace that I got my first road bike. I was 28. Now after 38 years sobriety, I’m still enjoying my cycling. You can say I replaced one bad obsession for one good one. great video as always.

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

Swapping Drinking for Cycling is a heroic move! Much respect for 38 years of sobriety and cycling. Very impressing!

[@Unktiontofunktion726]

Same here, 6 years in.💪🏼👊🏼

[@Gary_G]

38 years! Congrats! Well done.

[@lukehendrickson3669]

congrats dude!!! just celebrated 13 years sober. it gets even better

[@philipsefton5270]

This is the best you have ever done. Respect from 20 years sober ❤

[@andycooke1596]

Hey there brother, great topic. Cycling saved my life from alcohol. At 45 I quit drinking and began riding 100 miles a week. Now 7 years later I am still riding 100 miles a week and have not missed alcohol even once. This is after drinking 10 drinks or more per day for 20 years. Money saved so far? About $26k. Effect on my life as a husband and father? Priceless. Alcohol is pure poison. Cycling is pure joy!

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

This is amazing Andy, Congratulations

[@bikesandstufff]

26k buys a lot of nice bikes!

[@larrycox3378]

gave up alcohol and all my other addictions 26 years ago and all the positives you point out are true , got back into cycling 5 years ago at 69 years of age , I could not and would not have done with out that change

[@austinado16]

Great job, and same here, except I'm 61, and it's been 32yrs.

[@MasonStorm-e8k]

Just celebrated my 1 year last month, best decision I’ve ever made! Congrats DK!

[@Gary_G]

Well done. Keep it up! Grace and peace.

[@rodmcleod3072]

Haven’t had a drink in 12 months, consequently I haven’t lost a day to feeling like shit or a migraine either . Love being sober. ❤

[@stus74]

I'm 50 years old and have been riding as long as I can remember. It only recently occurred to me that, as you mentioned, no one cares about any of it. What you get on Strava, how far or fast you're going, how often you ride, if you drink...anything really. And if they did, that would be weird. Just do you and focus on yourself, what is best for you. That's all that matters. PS this is my favorite channel on YT...huge fan!

[@Schlem]

This is an important story to tell. Thanks.

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

🤜❤🤛

[@jonstavney7215]

Thanks!

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

Very kind of you J! 🤜❤️🤛

[@burton926]

"Not making a big deal about this". This part is huge. Its also a loaded task. There are all sorts of reasons people drink, but alcohol is an addictive substance. Even if you drink in moderation, there will be withdrawal symptoms to quitting drinking. Those symptoms hit different people in different ways, and sometimes you don't have a choice about whether this is a "big deal" to you or those around you. If you're the kind of person who can commit to a goal and maintain sight of the end result despite the adversity, you may be able to stay silent and do this on your own. However, there is no shame in asking your loved ones, friends, and community for support in reaching your goal. This may mean not attending that "bikes and beers" meetup you've gone to for 3 years. It may mean asking your partner not to drink wine when sharing dinner table. You have to be honest about the strength of your will, so you can then control how much external pressure and influence you subject yourself to. Maybe you have a friend or riding buddy who has also mentioned "man, I really shouldn't drink so much". Don't be afraid to ask them if they'd like to take this journey with you. A teammate makes any task easier. There are also people in our lives, enablers, who may hinder our goals. You may really enjoy spending time with these people, but that joy comes at a cost when they toss you a cold one or order a round of shots without asking. Once again, you have to choose whether you are committed to making this change, and how big of a deal it really is. My takeaway from the "don't make a big deal out of it" is don't make your goal everyone else's burden. Be accountable to yourself and give yourself the option to succeed. If after ride beers are the norm, its up to you to bring or ensure access to something non-alcoholic. If you share a living space with a partner or roommates, let them know you won't be drinking with them, but don't expect them to stop loading the fridge with beer. But don't feel like you have to stay silent or do this alone. Find advocates in your community, people who will either join you or encourage you in your goal, and voice your boundaries to those who would otherwise enable you to fall back into bad habits. Personal experience: I'm not totally dry. I still drink with intentionality, but I've all-but-eliminated social and habitual drinking. I did this not because I saw how much it was hurting me, but because I met a partner who is totally dry. She never once made it my problem that she needed to be dry. She's totally comfortable with me drinking around her, and she even jokes that I always have a DD if I need it. When we spend time together, I find I want to be present and spent the time WITH her, which alcohol does not encourage. Dating without alcohol cut my drinking in half, and over a few months I saw improvements in energy, sleep, body fat...pretty much everything Dustin mentions. These changes snowballed as my partner and I spent more time together, and I stopped ordering alcoholic drinks at bars and restaurants even when she wasn't around. I only learned how much better life was AFTER reducing my alcohol intake, so there's a good chance YOU would benefit too. Even though I had a "healthy" relationship with alcohol, didn't binge drink, and didn't feel "addicted" to it, I still went through a form of withdrawal. I had cravings for a beer when I finished a ride. I wanted a margarita any time I ate tacos. These associations were wired into my brain, and it took effort not to give in. I knew I wasn't at risk of chemical withdrawal, but the associative cravings were no laughing matter. I'm so thankful not to have addictive tendencies, and truly feel for those who do. I haven't been drunk since April 2023, and I average about 1 event per month during which I'll enjoy one or two drinks. Usually these are weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, or other significant life events I wish to celebrate. When I do, I make an intentional decision regarding how and when I drink. I don't drink beer/hard seltzer any more, and only seldom do I consume wine or mixed drinks. I still enjoy a finger of fine whiskey, the occasional sake, or a flute of champagne for a dinner toast. I never consume alcohol within 24 hours of a big ride or race, never more than 2 drinks in one event, and never if I'm going to drive within 6 hours. I know that these 1-2 drinks will not lead to 3-4 more, but that's because I never had an addictive relationship with alcohol. My partner knows that even one drink would lead to slippery slope back into alcoholism, so she abstains from all drinking. Both paths are valid, and both options coexist under one roof because we don't put the burden of maintaining the boundary on each other. Her lack of interest in alcohol helps me avoid drinking due to habit or boredom, and my moderation around alcohol helps her remain comfortable when it is present in social settings.

[@scotttripp5978]

GM! To all those who have not consumed alcohol in X months, years, etc, I am in awe. I'm on day 11 of dry January and it feels like day 1011 without the habit change. Ever aspect of my life is better w/o the booze. Spend less, eat better, greater focus, less anxiety, etc. Despite all these benefits, I still crave(irrationally, I know) a drink at the end of the day. Wish me luck making it to Feb 1st and, hopefully, beyond.

[@inthebush3]

Best of luck and from experience it gets easier and better every day, month and year till you just know you never want to go back.

[@SalsaAmigoMG]

Yes… Keep it up. I’m in the same boat.

[@crashymoto]

Keep it up!! You can do it. Day by day😎👍🏻

[@matthewshaw3747]

Eventually you’ll wonder why you wanted a drink.

[@nbartlett6538]

Damn I’m jealous. I’m on 2 months and haven’t seen any of these benefits (except spending less money I guess).

[@plepgeat]

I've been sober for almost 32 years. It transformed my entire life; thanks for speaking up.

[@racer_chef]

Thank you so much!! I've been so worried about what ppl think. My cycling group never starts or finishes a ride not around a brewery. Every event is sponsored by beer. It's hard to be in the social cycling. I appreciate your story and tips.

[@hautean]

2 years in and no one cares.

[@karlevans1961]

Great video and very relatable. I stopped in late Spring of 2023 and was really surprised at how much no one cared or noticed as well. It was fun while it lasted, but being in my 40s, it’s so much easier to get up and ride or ski now and do the things that really bring me happiness.

[@ricardosalcedo2824]

2 plus years here- I'll be 50 this year. Sound sleep is golden. Much mahalo my friend.

[@Gary_G]

Well done. I turn 58 in about a week.

[@chriscohlmeyer4735]

Keep going,just think of the adventures you can have at 70 (at 18 I never thought I'd get past 30...).

[@Gary_G]

@@chriscohlmeyer4735 Yeah keep riding!

[@noisufnoc]

AF beers are quite accessible and a great alternative. I've read that they are decent post ride beverages too

[@AlanWJohnson]

Dustin, my compliments Sir not only for quitting but more importantly for your wisdom in recognizing the subtle benefits and the subtle consequences of drinking. I’m much older than you and although I knew these points in my psyche for decades I didn’t make the conscious decision to stop until around 6 years ago, and for many of the same reasons. I’m very sociable and usually drank as a social event. But I finally admitted to myself that it actually wasn’t as much fun as I thought, it dragged down my energy, I felt like crap, and my sleep sucked. Again Sir, keep up your health and continue with your always enjoyable, educational, and inspirational videos.

[@stevekruchell6012]

Thanks Dustin. this has inspired me to try going dry. I love the the idea of not talking about it. Last Friday was my last day working for UPS after 31 years, so I'm starting a new chapter of life.

[@mtb_alan]

Love this. The longer I go without drinking, the better my life gets. Partly because it lets me learn to actually process my bs (buried stuff) instead of using alcohol.

[@jonathankersting6645]

Love the video. Athletic Brewing is the jam if you’re looking for an NA brew post ride or any time. I hardly drink alcohol anymore and it has all the effects you mention.

[@rjrichar100]

I’m in the middleish of a dry January and I’ve been struggling,thanks for some potential benefits!

[@tnitchman]

Great video! I quit 6 years ago ago and it has improved my life in all ways!

[@SamGreenMaker]

3 years alcohol free as of the 1st for all the same reasons. Decided to prioritize sleep and training/ running / riding. and feel amazing. I didn’t like that I wasted 100+ days a year feeling shitty because I was hungover.

[@MegaBigmule]

Well played my dude! Golf clap and a high five! A quick case Pericarditis, June 2020, told me to quit! Or Rather my Caridiologist told me to take a break for at least a month…I did.. I tried to a beer with meal some 30+ days later. It was a heady topper and after one sip … I pushed it away and said, ”ya know, I have no taste for that…” There it was..I had quit. As I reflected and shared my story, usually when asked if I wanted a drink… I realized I never actually enjoyed drinking alcohol… this in turn gave way to conversations about what had happened and how my health turned around, the weight loss,(25lbs). The resulting clear head allowed me to focus more on what I loved to do..not what I felt I needed to do..And yep, I also started setting a few KOMs locally, ripping the legs off my buds, and feeling ever stronger. And that felt great! I have shared this story with alotta people, and altho they may not have quit, they became aware and inspired. Some have quit and thanked me for being that inspiration. And that feels awesome! I’ve found out more folks struggle with the drink than we think. As it’s, as you pointed out Dustin, part of our social fabric. For those at the waffle bar of indecision, make the jump. You’ll never look back. If you do, you know more about yourself, and that’s powerful. Enjoy life, love your people. Thank you Dustin, keep it up.

[@Advance_Main]

I have nothing against alcohol and enjoyed the hell out of it in enormous quantities.... before I had kids. Kids changed everything. I think I still have 8 beers left over from a 2010 12 pack in the garage fridge. I'm seeing a lot of "I quit drinking" content lately on YT and I think there is a positive cultural shift occurring in our Country right now. Best point of your vid.... No one cares about anything but themselves when in social situations. Kudos on a great video!

[@geoffersmaher]

same here, was the reason i needed to stop

[@dominicbritt]

My kids are in their teens now. I'm so exhausted that I don't bother drinking anymore... I have no energy to waste on hangovers, lie ins etc...

[@bikesandstufff]

Maybe its just the algorithm, but I keep seeing people quitting alcohol all over social media and I very much welcome this trend.

[@corndogginit]

I'm on day 10 of dry january...first one I've ever tried and I'm 36. To me, it is absolutely INSANE how quickly you start to notice the changes. Much more level headed, way less bloated, skin cleared up, my focus is way more sharp...I don't necessarily know if I'll stay completely sober, but it absolutely will change my relationship with drinking from now on.

[@CharlesWessel]

12 years sober. Best years of my adult life

[@DamagesDamages]

Longtime drinker here. I spent a year without it. It was a game changer for sure. I feel like a different person altogether when I'm with drink. Its weakness, plain and simple. I've got to get back to sobriety. Theres too many good deeds going undone. Thanks for the reminder. Best luck everyone.

[@plepgeat]

There are a lot of ways to quit, and for me the 'one day at a time' was key. I am definitely an alcoholic and have been sober almost 32 years now; it's much better. Now it's time to quit sweets. 😬

[@DamagesDamages]

@plepgeat I do know that you are 100% correct. I'm such a compulsive idiot. I just have to throw myself back into fitness rather than bleakness. Slowly but surely I think I'm making my way back .

[@plepgeat]

You can do it - hell, you already did once, @@DamagesDamages, so you can do it again!

[@birdsandtrees]

Loved this video so much! Sober for 5 years on January 12th. Used to be a bike messenger in PDX and would ride like 40 miles a day on a track bike while drinking about a 12 pack. I didn’t even really eat I had no idea how I survived. I had to get out of that town it was so centered on drinking and I guess I kinda swapped that out for mountain biking, but it’s been completely beneficial. I’ve lived in multiple states to ride trails, had a kid who loves me, and a bunch of other great things. I now won’t even do the littlest things that could affect my post ride recovery or ability to ride. I have nothing against people who drink or use, as that’s what got me here today no matter how much I regret it.

[@Unktiontofunktion726]

I got back into cycling to help me quit drinking. I’m 6 years sober this month 1/28! I also lost 80lbs cutting carbs and cycling.🙏👊🏼

[@Gary_G]

Well done. Keep it up!

[@Temporalplace]

80lb in what time ? Its lot , hppy for u

[@Unktiontofunktion726]

@ a little over a year when I really started on the no carbs route along with cycling and intermittent fasting. It was pretty quick.

[@Temporalplace]

@@Unktiontofunktion726 I saw that some cyclists eat alot of carbs to keep up with burning callories, they eat alot of noodles and sugary things but still they don't get fat, why ?

[@Unktiontofunktion726]

@ burning more than they’re eating.

[@galahaaad]

I'm 10th day without alcohol. Yesterday it was my first social situation without alcohol and I surprisingly enjoyed that, also very unusual feeling of going home sober at night. It was a good feeling. No hangover in the morning and good sleep, even if it was just 6 hours or so. I'll definitely continue in this fashion.

[@joelarmstrong6127]

I'm right with you on day 12. Good work and thanks for sharing!

[@beezknows]

Thank you for this. My last drink was on June 12th. Being sober gave me the energy to pick up cycaling again. Riding has been just the best thing ever! So happy I found your channel a few months back:)

[@Gary_G]

Well done keep it up.

[@JasonKnightxenofish]

A couple of years ago, I quit drinking for a couple weeks as an experiment and the difference in my sleep quality was mind blowing. I still enjoy a drink every so often, but I drink less in a month now than I used to drink in a day. Most of the time, when I consider having a beer or something, it just doesn't feel worth the sacrafice of sleep and ride recovery.

[@blueskyofmancos6278]

just me thinking of a bad nights sleep is enough to keep me away from the bottle. i cherish my sleep so much nowadays

[@gregh7387]

This may be your best video to date. Great stuff.

[@sebastianhuvenaars6537]

I quit drinking for a while running up to a cycling trip to the Alps few years back. The effect on my performance and general feeling of well being were kind of spectacular. Especially the quality of my sleep and with that recovery was very noticeable to me. During the off season i'll have myself a nice drink once in a while, i'm not a pro athlete and very much enjoy sharing an occasional glass of beer or wine. Still managed to dial back on drinking quite a lot and it is totally worth it.

[@jeffandersen6233]

Justin thanks for the info and on your non preachy presentation. I've been slowly limiting my wine consumption for weight and blood sugar reasons as I'm well past middle age. You're right on about all the other benefits. I sleep better and feel better, drink more water and have less digestive issues.

[@honestreviewer3283]

I appreciate this, thanks. I'm currently fighting this fight.

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

One step at a time bud! It’s like climbing a hill. Slow and steady. Also just as much respect to reaching out for support and asking for a little help. 🤜❤️🤛

[@tombriggs4442]

I've been straight edge my whole 40 years on this planet, so I can't relate to quitting drinking but I am stoked that the change has helped you so much. Great job Dustin.

[@leonsergent253]

Well done Dustin. I believe, that you are asking yourself the right questions and that your video is an intelligent look at a very complex health issue. I am a 65 year old cyclist and I have not had alcohol in 25 years. No regrets. Never going back to drinking. No interest. Certainly one of the most profound life changing decisions I have ever made. There are a few adjustments and decisions to make once you have stopped consuming alcohol. Find a replacement drink that satisfies you and feels festive. For me it’s half club soda, half tonic water …with a twist. Resist the temptation to ‘educate’ others about alcohol consumption, unless they ask you for your help, then share your own experience. It’s not a lesson. Everyone has their own pathway. Resist the urge to explain yourself about your decision. It sounds like a confession and it does not feel empowering. Just say ´I feel like having Kombucha/ soda’ (or whatever you new favourite drink may be…). If the social pressure to drink alcohol feels uncomfortable, maybe it’s time to rethink the company you are keeping. Thank you for doing this.

[@ad419]

I’ve mostly stopped for a variety of . The biggest on-bike reason was the discomfort of riding after a mid-ride beer. I started to become aware of the lethargy and heart palpitations. Especially because I like to take hilly rambly rides and it made climbing torturous

[@KillerStephen]

I dropped drinking almost entirely a few months ago after gallbladder surgery. Down a lot of lbs, way more energy, sleep better, literally everything you mentioned here. Total game changer that I wish I had been strong/smart/brave enough to do sooner. It has become my strategy now to just avoid it altogether. Great video. I hope it reaches more people, and they really process what you have put together here.

[@darkmode_garden]

Thanks Derek! This the exact kinda motivation I need to stick with it. This last year I replaced riding to a destination pint to riding to a market for a sparkling hoppy tea.

[@craigblowfield8821]

Great vid Dustin, perfect summary of the benefits. Moved away from alcohol 4.5yrs ago, at times I'm tempted to have a glass but usually that ends after one and I'll happily return to my non-alcoholic beverage of choice. There's also an ever expanding range of non-alcoholic beverages available. What I found in social situations is that people generally don't notice what you're drinking as long as you have a can or small glass bottle in your hand they are more relaxed. And walking into a room with people you don't know there is a level of unsureness which dissipates after 15 or so minutes whether you have alcohol or not :)

[@robbcollins3727]

I am currently on a quest for an alcohol free existence, just 10 days so far. But I am already sleeping better. I will try and be strong, Great video Dustin, Thanks!

[@inthebush3]

Just do your best. If you fall down then get up and start again.

[@robertkowton5875]

9 - on dry January. Maybe this video will motivate me to extend.

[@kyleellsworth6440]

Me too!

[@rug212]

Keep it going! It gets better and better!

[@Gary_G]

Yea, bro! Stay dry!

[@geoffersmaher]

i remember a passing comment you made in a live stream a couple of years ago about 0% alcohol (maybe bigger here in europe) and what nonsense it was, kinda stuck with me as someone who has been sober now for 8 years aftera lot of struggle. i think they are a post ride post hard graft gem and help a lot of people. but a great video for sure its something that is a great change. hope its helped change your views

[@l139x3]

By far the biggest upgrade You can have on your cycling performance. Mood swings are spot on ! It’s just an objectively better life, period.

[@GDub83]

I stopped drinking, smoking, and using the green herb unless I truly needed the medical benefits. I've noticed a big difference in my oxygen intake, and my overall power output has improved significantly. It's been almost a year now for me

[@Hathasolar1]

I'm in the 98% reduction camp. Started drinking at 15, started noticing disrupted sleep at 50. Tapered down to almost zero, maybe 2 beers a month. I feel very blessed to have been able to let it go without a ton of personal drama. Good show Dustin!

[@walshman70]

I like to support local craft breweries that are taking the step to develop low or no alcohol options that actually taste good!

[@Temporalplace]

Tea is much better than no alcohol options. You cant even imagine how many ifferent teas exist. You can literally mke a tea from anything that is not toxic or poisonous.

[@schlinkodonkofink]

I’m going to be That Guy: is your desire to support local (but still drink, even if low or no) an excuse for yourself? What is it about drinking that attracts you to it, or that you’ll find reasons (excuses) to do it?

[@bikesandstufff]

@@schlinkodonkofink I just like the taste, and some NA craft beers are pretty tasty. I drink them seldomly though, and I don't feel any negative effect from them. But I don't care if I drink sparkling water instead or a kombucha.

[@juliapoelstra3624]

​@@bikesandstufffI'm with you on that. Some of those craft beers were TASTY and it's nice to have that flavor without the side effects.

[@notreally2406]

Why,?

[@doncompton9453]

Thank you for this video. I did this in my late 50s and lost about 7lbs and I wasn't fat. My ability to ride hills improved dramatically. Today I'm 73 and I think I need to do it again.

[@stevemolinelli3524]

7 years sober 🎉 wouldn't change it for anything. Plus I'm feel way better riding . Thanks Dustin!

[@Choccytube]

I've stopped for around the last 8 weeks, by choice, and I feel like it will be the same as when I stopped smoking, no negatives but lots of positives. The recovery thing is a combination of the better sleep, better nutrition and a more positive outlook. I did a hard workout, probably the hardest I've ever done on the turbo and still did sessions the following 2 days, previous to this I would have had 2 days off. The dieting without even trying is an added bonus, plus the extra cash from not waking up to an Amazon delivery you knew nothing about.

[@somfierce]

Woah surprise sludge riff This is one of my favorite videos of yours. 7 years no beers for me, and I really appreciate how you talk about your reasons and approach for quitting

[@lrh8197]

The first point about drinking and restorative sleep is probably the most significant. I’ve actually stopped eating anything within a few hours of going to sleep and it’s made the biggest change in how I feel when I wake up. We’re talking popping out of bed vs. groggy zombie.

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

This is interesting to me as well. 2hr no food gap before sleep?

[@MattOtis]

Also would recommend no water 2 hours before bedtime. That way you don't wake up in the middle of the night to pee. The first time you sleep from your head hitting the pillow until the alarm goes off is kind of amazing.

[@Greg-ht2uv]

@@EverythingsBeenDonespecifically sugar in my experience

[@daniellarson3068]

I've had a lifelong battle with fat. I listened to a few books on tape a few years back. The body processes alcohol a bit like sugar. Too much alcohol can lead to insulin resistance. That's right there with type 2 diabetes. That was an eye opener.

[@unclefuzzyss]

I"ve also taken that leap. My wife and I both stopped alcohol about 5 months ago for much the same reason as you. It just didn't add anything to our lives. Except headaches, expense, feeling icky and adding lbs. Since leaving it behind, sleep is good all around. I don't regret going to work on early mornings, and riding is MORE fun. I sort of wish we stopped sooner, but am happy with where we are now.

[@speedbird8987]

I stopped drinking in my 20s and never looked back. I just didn’t get any benefit from it, but people did react and seemed disturbed that I wasn’t drinking at parties, but they adjusted. This is a great overview of the benefits. You can also add that alcohol takes a great toll on the body over time and now they’re are discovering a link with dementia and recommending that people over 65 stop drinking. Well done!

[@billysbikesbrews7183]

Great Video.. I've gone without alcohol on & off again.. as a aging athlete.. I need to make this more permanent..

[@mausgrau]

I stopped drinking alcohol and caffeine three months ago. Better sleep, three kilos lighter and better, faster recovery. These are my observations so far. Giving up caffeine was hard, I felt dizzy off and on for two weeks.

[@chrism5433]

Good day nice work. What did the no caffeine do for you ?!. I would miss it on my rides 😂

[@TurnTheCranks]

I quit drinking back in 2021. I may have a campfire beer a couple times a year, but even then it's rare. I feel 100% better after quitting. I love being a morning person now and getting up and being stoked for a ride vs. dragging my ass out of bed. As Dustin says, nobody knows or cares if you are hanging out with a can in your hand. Largely, it just keeps someone from grabbing me a beer, lol.

[@flatorange]

I am 56 now and never really drank in my life, my parents didn't and although they didn't police me I just never did. I did a 90 mile gravel sportive with a mate 6 years ago and he had stupidly had way too many the night before and a large Indian meal. I nursed him round the course as you are obliged to do. The next year I did it solo as not to get caught out again, knocked an hour off the time.

[@andydavis1068]

Moved on from alcohol this past summer. Your points are spot on. The aspect that surprised me the most was how many of my friends were sober-curious as well. I agree that you don’t need to evangelize your new life choice but this is a good conversation to have with your good friends. Cheers

[@isnerdy]

I do Dry January every year, and usually May and/or October. I also never drink the night before a ride. These days, I've found that when I do drink, the enemy is anything sugary, like beer or wine. If I keep it to something like vodka & soda water, I have a much easier and quicker recovery. Of course everyone makes their own decisions and has their own path, but I think it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. If you're able to maintain control over occasional moderate drinking, it doesn't necessarily have to be detrimental. But of course, once you no longer have control, it's time to take a step back.

[@scottduncanphotography1671]

Quit drinking in 2004 which means I did all my bike polo events around the bay and sacramento completely sober lol. They used to say I was cheating since I wasn't drinking hahahahha... Always down to share experiences of not drinking and always have an open ear to those that want to talk about wanting to quit etc. Thank you for using your platform to share this experience.

[@scottduncanphotography1671]

Side note, am going to be 56 this year and have just gotten into gravel riding. Your videos have been super helpful and fun to watch. Was a pretty instant subscribe

[@landonthings]

I did a year of sobriety starting mid summer 2023 and have enjoyed a beer here and there, but have really been feeling like "damn this just isn't work it" anytime I have one lately. I am back on the no alcohol (also no lettuce ;) as of today, and I think I'm going to commit to another year of no alcohol. Thanks DK

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

Respect Landon! Everyones journey is different if Brews come back into your life as a conscious decision, thats fine and well. At least you will know yourself so much better from your experiments.

[@Gary_G]

Well done keep it up.

[@michaelsteven1090]

Thanks for this video..its been on my mind..I need to do it.

[@aeriegrove]

I second everything. Quit drinking over four years ago now and it just keeps being the best decision I've ever made

[@ZachSwan-i6q]

Great timing on this vid. I’m in my dry January mode but will probably keep it going or significantly decrease after watching this. Thanks for sharing! Ride safe everyone!

[@jasonbean4895]

well done. video and life change. thx for sharing.

[@juntartful]

I quit last new years and stayed dry for four months binged at a friend's wedding kept dry till around fall and now I feel the need to quit for good. What really helped was NA beers at social gatherings. Some are actually really good. I love the athletic IPA. Also bubbly water. Sparkling water etc. Also at bars just ask for soda water. NA hot toddies in the winter. Also, yes, the sleep is way better when you are alcohol free

[@xclent1975]

I’m quitting alcohol too thanks for this

[@BrianKearns-l8n]

Well done dude. I celebrated 6 years in November. I had LOTS of really fun times when I was drinking, but my life is so much better now that I don’t. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@gm22182]

Question: what was your norm? How much did you typically consume? When other popular cycling KZbinrs discussed quitting, their typical amount was 6-10 pints plus a few hard liquor drinks. That represents about a month or 2 for me. Rarely a post ride beer (Cap2Cap annually sponsored by a brewery) and a latte or protein shake are preferred. Great that you promote quitting.

[@PaulCoull]

A good replacement I use for beer is sparkling water, sounds boring but it really helps take the urge away.

[@MaxWithoutTax]

I’m right at this point where i decided to reduce drinking because i have the feeling it is holding me back in so many aspects. (sports, studying, etc.) Might as well just quit overall.

[@chrism5433]

At 55 I decided to take a break ,6 months in feeling pretty good , just stick na Guinness. Cheers 🚴☕🚴

[@martinjernberg401]

little to no alcohol consumption for 5+ years. just quit zyn 30 days ago and have never felt better on the bike and also much more energy and confidence during the day. zyn was a tough one. Thanks for making this video! substances plague us all one way or another.

[@austinwelborn12]

Love the spontaneous doom metal riff! So glad I stumbled upon this video. Been experimenting with an alcohol-free lifestyle. I'm not counting the days, but it's hard to want to drink when you start seeing the benefits of sobriety.

[@Flyingredcactus]

Thank you much for sharing your experience on quitting alcool. Currently doing my 1st Dryjanuary at 31yo. So far so good but still looking for the good drinking replacment product.

[@bradenstromdahl5302]

Quit drinking years ago with the plan being a temporary break, but now I can't see myself ever going back. Drinking didn't seem like it was controlling my life while I was in it, but get a bit of distance from it really showed how much it was dragging me down.

[@bikesandstufff]

I quit just to see how long I'd last, it turns out I can last for years and I have absolutely no desire to feel dizzy and shitty anymore.

[@questgivercyradis8462]

haha I'm glad you said kombucha! I'm not no-alcohol, but I've lowered the amount I have lately. Respect for the no-booze crews out there! Recovery differences are real - my Garmin watch shows my resting heart rate all screwy the morning after most booze. My most hippie thought has been "I want a beer, but without the effects of beer... I'll have a kombucha". It works. So beers, cocktails, wine are less common for me - sometimes will be weeks between one, sometimes more frequent (like family, with fun gatherings). I'm more conscious of when and why I drink, although I've always been good about quantity in a given session (too small not to be). It definitely helps me on managing recovery. Cheers to you on finding that none is best for you!

[@theotherchannel3]

been going for 15 days so far, plan on doing it for the rest of the year maybe even life. super rewarding. cool to see you release this as a long time viewer.

[@Autotad]

Over 10 years ago I had a wake up call on my life. Quit drinking for a year and got into bikes. Years after that, manager a healthy relationship with it. Got laid off in 2023 and didn’t find a job until a few months ago, but I was in a pretty bad place mentally. This video was a reminder to me to get back to what works!

[@chimichawnga]

Stopped drinking 10 years ago and lost 50 pounds! Best and most impactful change I’ve made. That and weed is just the truth lol😌

[@chrisdistefano198]

I unintentionally stopped a while ago, not sure why, and just kept on with it. Can't imagine going back, I feel great. This is a great video, Dustin, really nicely presented. You're right, it's not a big deal, no one needs to make it one but that starts with yourself. Make it normal and it becomes normal. Your friends pretty much come around to the idea on the third occasion of wherever you gather and after that it's never a topic again.

[@EverythingsBeenDone]

Love this: Make it normal and it becomes normal. You are a wealth of wisdom CD. Thank you!

[@MrHatt7777]

"No one cares about anyone but themselves" My friends are different I guess. If they see someone not drinking they panic and start asking "whats wrong man, why aren't you drinking, want me to buy you a drink, you sure you're ok, etc..."