MY PLUMMETING FITNESS, BIKE PANIC?! *AND* A BIG ADVENTURE IN JANUARY!

[@PaulBottomley]

I am most proud of myself for taking the courage to admit I was in a bad place, my weight was north of 163kg and I hadn't ridden a bike in 30 years., I am now under 130 kg and have ridden over 2500 miles in the las t12 months. My goal for next year is get down to 100kg and do a real life adventure like the Hebridean way or LEJOG. Riding my Zwift has motivated me to buy a real bike and even though it early days I love it.

[@Fruity-Amy]

Great job! I rode approx the same km on the bike this year, it is really a life changer

[@fredriklasses8326]

I am most proud that I started cycling again in August 2024 after a 3-year break. This has resulted in my knee now functioning properly. I can go for long walks and also run. Above all, I feel how much I have missed cycling. 50 years old and stronger now than I have been in many years.

[@tomkweb]

Hi Katie, I've enjoyed your videos for years! As a 65-year-old man, I'm incredibly proud of my perseverance this year. Five and a half years ago, I broke my hip in a cycling accident, but I didn't stop riding. This year, I completed a 346-mile, 5-day gravel bike trip across the GAP Trail in Pennsylvania. Three weeks ago, the lingering hip flexor pain finally subsided enough to let me start running again, and three days ago, I ran a 12-minute mile! Thank you for being a source of inspiration and motivation throughout my journey. 🚲

[@andrewnorris5415]

Awesome, inspiring determination. Thanks for sharing.

[@lenwilkinson8541]

Katie, your videos kept me going! While recovering from cancer, I was still able to ride 2,500 miles. In addition to local riding, I conquered three tours including Circumnavigation of Lake Ontario (NY and Canada,) East Anglia (Suffolk and Norfolk,) and Amish Country (Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.) Thanks for the inspiration.

[@greggsenne1268]

Good on you! Dealing with the Big C myself. Fingers crossed the procedure will get rid of it and get me back on the bike. Soon.

[@paulblundell3053]

I'm most proud of getting through this year with a multitude of health challenges I won't bore you with. Cycling always helps me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. It's a form of meditation. Thank you Katie for being a source of inspiration and having the mystical ability to have zero flats on your epic adventures in the mountains this year. 😊

[@oliviacairns25]

My 62-year old Dad has wanted to cycle up Mount Ventoux for as long as I can remember, well before I even owned a bike. I got into cycling a year ago and after training all summer, in September we both made it to the top! I feel so incredibly lucky to have been able to share that climb experience with him!! ☺️🌟

[@Neilhuny]

I kinda hope you win - but I don't want to influence KK in any way - however, you would be my winner! So pleased for your dad making it up there at his age - quite and achievement. But you doing it after only ~one year is also very impressive: together is much more than doubly fantastic.

[@oliviacairns25]

@@Neilhuny well that’s very lovely of you to comment with such a kind response - thank you! ✨

[@tinasteiger-lee284]

Hi Katie, there are many things I am proud of this year, but in terms of cycling I am most proud of that I picked up cycling a little over a year ago and sticked with it all through 2024. We live in a very flat part of Germany and over the summer we spent one week in the Alps near Salzburg. That was my first time going up and DOWN a mountain and it was scary as hell for me, but I made it and I am very proud of that. Thanks for all your great content and wishing you a happy xmas.

[@rug212]

I’m most proud of that I quit drinking alcohol. It used to be my life. I started walking, then running. Lost 60 pounds. Then I found the bike. Now I cycle all the time. I love long rides every weekend. Over 2000 miles this year! I never think about alcohol anymore. New life, new me!

[@dominicbritt]

Well done - no mean feat that - onwards and upwards.

[@davidhaywood8961]

Great work 👏. I packed up 6 years ago best thing I've ever done. I've done some amazing races because of it

[@rug212]

@@davidhaywood8961 it’s been 6 years for me as well!

[@carlaseaton9221]

I am proud of two things. This is my first year on my bike and I cycled from Seattle Washington to Portland Oregon 206 miles in 2 days. Which was a big deal to me, 6 months before I was scared of my bike and didn’t even know how to shift! (Thank you for all of your videos, you helped me so much in the beginning!) my second thing, is that I have lost 17 pounds and have found a love for cycling! I cannot wait for this upcoming year. I just got Zwift last month and have been learning how to use it for winter training! I truly don’t think I could have come this far without watching your videos. You help me be “not so scared” which sounds ridiculous but it’s how I feel. The tight clothes and feeling insecure, riding alone, changing my tire. 😂 THANK YOU for your channel! 🎉❤ Happy 2025!

[@mattp5171]

Halloooo....! I'm most proud of my adopted daughter cruising along to the local bike club and just loving it...not the fastest but she just loves being on her bike...🎉Happy Christmas x

[@LookingBackAdventures]

Thank you for discussing plummeting fitness as it does happen especially after the long trips like you did this year. Good job for getting back in the swing of things. Something I am proud off this year (and it may seem small in the grand scheme of things) but I have finally conquered that fear factor of the "planning" of the bike trips. For years that has always been the hardest part for me and I have missed out on trips in the past because of the sometimes overwhelming amount of things to do and check before a cycling trip even begins. Once on the trip it's easy. I am so proud of that and it has opened up the world of trips that await me!! Hope to see you out there someday. Have a wonderful holiday! And thanks again for all you show and teach us in your adventures.

[@petehanley223]

Hi Katie. Love what you do. For me, I'm proud of myself for completing my first full race season. Even entering my first 2 and 1/2 hour GP, didn't win. Didn't even finish high but loved it.. Keep doing what you're doing. You're motivating thousands.

[@2checkchki]

What I’m most proud of pertaining to myself is the over 500 miles I was able to ride this past year. I know that’s not many miles but I struggle with depression and extreme loneliness due to the fact that I’m an empty nester. Riding my bicycle provides me such a feeling of freedom and self -worth.

[@atgnicyclist]

Please have a look for a cycling club local to you. There are many people of varying backgrounds and fitness that would welcome a new face. I find having people to ride with means less chance I'll cry off as I don't want to let them down. Good luck and ride safe.

[@KatieKookaburra]

That is amazing well done you. That is great miles. I would love you to have a pair of the headphones to wear on your rides as when i'm riding solo and listening to music or podcasts it makes me feel less lonely :) Have a lovely Christmas. Please email me with your details to [e-mail] xxx

[@sazridesbikes]

Awww … this year I’m most proud of riding 20 miles .. though the pain was so hard…I had a horrible accident in the kitchen a year ago, and almost lost my hand. Holding onto handlebars was a torture, but 20 miles felt like a mountain. Still early days but little steps are a positive. Merry Christmas Katie, and thank you for the inspiration always ❤

[@kevinlyon9501]

Great stuff well done, hope the recovery continues and you get to ride more.

[@KatieKookaburra]

Speedy recovery my friend xx

[@Jub--jub]

Most proud that after a few years out of the saddle I decided in June to sign up for the Perth (Western Australia) MACA Cancer 200km ride in October. A lot of early mornings (and chafe cream) later and the ride was amazing with the 1,900 participants raising $10.3m for the cause. I’ve clocked 2,000km since June and still loving it. Awesome and inspiring videos, keep them coming!

[@rickydunlop-d6d]

At 64 years of age I rode my bicycle across Canada 7000 km with my two sons 23 and 27. We peddle every metre. Kinda proud of that. 😊

[@alicejwho]

WOW! What an achievement! Amazing!

[@juliannejameson8987]

Hi Katie love your passion and love for keeping yourself fit for the long ride. I am most proud, at 57, of doing my first duathlon. I love long distance but know as I get older sprint stuff is better for me so that’s what I did a sprint duathlon. Zone 5 most of the way - so hard but signed up for more next year and could do with some music motivation in my ears for the high intensity sessions ahead xx

[@mlaw1983]

This year, I am most proud of training consistently and dropping my weight from 95 to 82 kg. The most fun I’ve had this year was getting back into trail running.

[@johnmullineaux302]

I’m proud that I’m still turning the cranks at 75 with a bad back. I was happiest this year supporting a dozen teenage boys as they climbed 10 Rocky Mountain peaks.

[@Gary-still-cycling]

This year Katie I’m most proud of the fact that at age 69 I completed my first 100k at Ride London! So much fun riding on closed roads😊

[@Chuck-i4h]

Great job!

[@Riverbendranch217]

I am proud of myself for starting cycling! I was looking for something to do because my knees won't let me run anymore. Started cycling in August and I absolutely love it!! :D

[@Fruity-Amy]

Cycling is so low impact!

[@jasonallcock1660]

Most proud of consistently training after a low mileage couple of years due to injury, last 12 months have been pretty consistent indoor and out but really looking forward to getting back to where I was next year!! Keep up the good work, watch your vids when on the turbo

[@rickyhenstock8243]

For cycling I am most proud of completing my Mounting Bike Instructors course but overall I am most proud of hiking to Point Lenana on Mt Kenya with a group of friends, with everyone encouraging each other when there was inevitably a low point. Good luck on your upcoming trip!

[@322Patricia]

Dear Katie, Thank you so much for all your work with the videos, I learn so much and love that you are also vegan so for me that has been so inspiring and I am always trying to peak what you eating out and about as I lack nutritional info. One of the things I am proud of myself is to have been brave and joined a local cycling club as I didnt know where to start. Luckly they had just started a couch to 50k ride ride sessions for ladies in January and since then I have been cycling a lot. My daughter had tried to take her own life and everything was a struggle, I am so glad that cycling has kept my sanity and also away from doctors advice of getting me on antidepressants, so it was another proud moment to not need those. I booked myself to do a London to Paris next September so this will keep my motivation going and lets keep on cycling. Big hug and have fun on your next adventure xxx

[@andycarson3341]

I'm most proud of the fact I started cycling this year to improve my health. Failed my annual physical in the spring. Doc said I needed to exercise, loose weight and get more sleep. I cut my processed food intake to 10-15% of what it used to be. I'm getting close to 7 hours of sleep/night. Started cycling 3 hours /week in August, now 6-7 hrs/week, and 1.5 hrs of strength training. Lost 15 pounds and I am off BP medicine. Next is to get my VO2 max to superior for my age group.

[@susanc_adventures]

Love your videos Katie. You inspired me to get into zwift through lockdown all those years ago and I’ve enjoyed seeing your adventures here in the UK and also further afield. I already own a pair of shokz but good luck to everyone and Merry Christmas 🎅🎄

[@songfta]

I’m most proud of completing the Logan-to-Jackson Challenge fondo in September, a 207 mile long challenge from Logan, Utah, to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. It was a long day in the saddle (11 hours) with a decent amount of climbing and awful headwind, but I completed it and felt strong after. It runs closely behind becoming a Cingle du Mont Ventoux back in July - that was brutal, as well. Happy holidays, Katie!

[@philipmews1513]

I’m most proud of myself for getting a bike and joining a bike gravel group. Having always been a loner and suffered from crippling mental health challenges, I struggled to see a value in myself and felt worthless. My cycle group has been transformative for me and allowed me to begin to feel like I’m worth it and life has more to offer.

[@JeffSeaIndustries]

I’m most proud of finishing my Bachelors Degree in Nursing while working full time! I start my Master’s in January! The most fun I had this year was traveling with my wife, we went to NYC and several local road trips.

[@Whaley-z2i]

Hi Katie, this year I was just proud to be able to cycle to and from work. Not much compared to you all, but I have done it consistently for months. It’s helped my well-being and my health. Thanks for inspiring me. Hopefully in a few months I will ride out for some further adventures and training. Oh I forgot, I bought a Zwift bike. Thanks Katie. X

[@infatuateddrummer]

I am proud of two things this year, from being non academic I have graduated with a degree as a teacher, teaching construction to underprivileged kids to give them a future in trade and try keep them off the streets. Being first in my family to graduate will hopefully encourage my daughters to push themselves. From a cycling perspective, I completed my first 100 this year, it took me to places I didn’t know my body could do and pushed me to limits I didn’t know I could get past! Love the videos 👌 look forward to the January videos

[@ShawnIsBatman]

What I am most proud of this year --- taking 4 weeks off the bike to let an injury heal that I had been neglecting for over a year. Have fun Down Under on your trip!!

[@trailrunningpixie]

My proudest moment this year is finally admitting that I’m deep into RED-S and being prepared to talk about it with my husband and my coach, acknowledging that I hide in training to escape all the things I can’t face. This, as well as facing my reality of life with panic disorder and starting therapy to try and make things just a little bit easier. I have sporting things I’m proud of, but these are the things that underpin everything I can achieve on my bike and running but are the most terrifying to own up to. P.s. Love your videos, thank you for sharing so many aspects of your cycling life and the little bits beyond. Happy Christmas!!!

[@markworthington9553]

HI Katie, I'd say for me one of my proudest achievements was cycling up Great Dun Fell this year. It was a bit of a life affirming moment for me . On the 23rd December last year i fell seriously ill with Double pneumonia and was rushed into hospital and spent a week in intensive care then the next 2 months in hospital which was a complete shock to me having never spent a day in hospital my whole life. I went from cycling every week and gym 3 times a week to zero fitness lay up in a hospital bed i could barely walk a few steps without feeling tired and out of breath. Funnily enough the doctors basically said my cycling and the gym saved my life. It's been a year long recovery i was im pretty much back to full health back at the gym lifting back to pre illness. Cycling has been such a big part of my life for the last 25 years it has kept me fit and preserved my sanity in all that time. The first time i got back on a bike after my illness i borrowed my son in laws E-bike it was soo good to get back on a bike i was welling up with tears of happiness and gratitude. Cycling has given me so much and just keeps on giving . Keep doing what your doing Kate you're such an inspiration .

[@tonyjefferys4300]

proud that I realised that at 56 it as time to take control of my fitness. started walking, watching my diet, not perfect but doing something. shokz would be great to get running with. have a great Christmas and new year.

[@meme-d2h1g]

I'm most proud of the fact I rode up alpe de zwift for the first time recently. 2 years ago I could barely go 1km on flat ground. So I am happy I was able to do that, albeit slowly, it took 2 hours. Your channel has given me inspiration and goals.

[@treesnbikes]

2024 has been a year of injury and recovery for me. Starting with a fractured scapula from a touch of wheels in March, I had to cancel a trip to Mallorca. But I managed to stay positive and treat recovery as a challenge. It must have worked, as I exceeded everyone‘s expectations, even my own with the speed of full recovery. Fast forward to 11 days ago I fractured my clavicle in the same shoulder while cross country skiing. Got surgery right away and I’m on track for another full and speedy recovery. At 65 years old, I’ll be having a bone density scan just to see how the old bones are doing! Love your content as usual❤

[@skipugh]

It’s so hard to restart training. I’m 77 and battling back for the 3rd time this year after having to stop for a bit (accident and operation). But it feels so good to see improvements 🎉

[@FredChagnon]

Most proud of two things in 2024. 1. Completing a full series of audax brevets (200, 300, 400, 600, 1000), despite a mountain biking injury that put me off the bike for 6 weeks in the summer. 2. Leading a 5-person fleche team on a 24-hour 400km ride in late May, to am event attended by 15 other fleche teams. (Oh, I also helped organize the event).

[@nickoneill8600]

I started riding this year, motivated by some of your journeys so thank you thank you thank you. About 3,500km since July. 10kg down and just loving it. Keep your vids going!

[@lisabourne847]

I'm most proud of following my heart and riding in Mallorca, Girona, and Dublin this past summer. I set my all time elevation PR of 8400 ft and 100 miles cycling the Wicklow 200 - surviving the Dublin mountain rains! Definitely most proud! Most fun was reuniting with friends to cycle in Mallorca!!! Lovely to meet you last year and keep sharing your light with us!

[@tvb1392]

I'm most proud of how cycling has helped my get out there and meet people and see parts of the country I've not seen before. It has helped me come to terms with the death of my husband (55) and working out what life looks like. Next year I want to cycle the NC500

[@KatieKookaburra]

I'm sorry to hear about the passing of your husband, but glad you have been able to enjoy riding. I want you to enjoy it even more next year, so I want you to have one of the pairs of headphones. Email me with your details to [e-mail] xxx

[@guyboycecam1636]

I am most proud that after many years of drinking to excess, I was able to give up alcohol completely 5 months ago. In part it is the inspiration of seeing your do amazing trips and challenges, enabliong me to see a really positive future on the bike as a consequence of stopping drinking. thanks for the part you played in that. Guy

[@KatieKookaburra]

Well done Guy this is amazing! Well done you x

[@Adam_Crebo]

Thanks for the videos throughout the year Katie - your determination in the Dolomites was impressive. Proud: finally hitting 3W/kg FTP (not that it'll survive Xmas) Enjoyable: also the Pyrenees, on a family holiday - Col D'Aspin is amazing!

[@SignorLuigi]

Hi Katie! As much as I'd like them, I don't deserve the Shokz. Others here have overcome far bigger obstacles and are far more deserving of them. 👏👏👏 But I am proud that I have always tried to be my best self in the comment section of your videos. Being kind and supportive is its own reward. So it's all good from my end. As for you, you continue to create beautiful things so this world of ours is the best it can be. Your channel is about far more than cycling.😊

[@KatieKookaburra]

You have been amazing and love your support this year! you are the best! x

[@garybowns9779]

My proudest moment was completing my first 100 mile ride. The Carten, a 106 mile charity ride from Cardiff to Tenby. At the ripe old age of 55 and only taking up road cycling about 6 months prior. The feeling when crossing the finish line was amazing.

[@philippauley4972]

Most proud of running my first 50 mile ultra marathon last Saturday. Most fun.. hiking across Scotland with my best friend last summer.

[@carlpentney290]

I am most of proud of getting my grandson his first proper bike, buying 2nd hand doing it all up and seeing his and his mum and dads happy faces.

[@johannamontlouis-gabriel534]

I am proud of myself for going on a bike adventure by myself in the Garroxta and then to Girona! All of this thanks to the inspiring solo biking adventures you’ve filmed! I’m proud that I didn’t back out when scared, riding on the roads, experiencing challenging climbs and loving every second of it, all of this after only 2 years of falling back in love with cycling and cyclists KZbinrs like you! Grateful for these memories!!!! 🙏🏾🚴🏾‍♀️

[@dzimm666]

I'm most proud of myself for picking up cycling and using it to lose 70 lbs. I cycled over 1,700 miles and completed a metric century this past year after picking up cycling last September.

[@grahambowes756]

Good to see you getting back into it again. I’m proud that I’ve done nearly 30,000m of accent this year, including Alpe d’Huez on ROUVY. Which isn’t bad at 68. I already have the headphones. Love them, so I don’t need them. 😊 Hernia op on Monday coming, so I’ll be off the bike for a bit. And will have to build fitness up again. Have a great Christmas 🎄

[@HitPlays]

Love all that you do Katie and the great videos you put out. I am most proud of getting back on the bike after a bad accident in 2023 where i got a really bad concussion which caused me to loose memory of the incident. I have now managed to complete ride london and l2b which to me is crazy as ive never done anything that long and hard and also manage to encourage my friend to now join me on this fitness adventure who has never cycled but now can’t get enough of it🤣 hope you and your family have a lovely festive period 🎉

[@adamoliver]

I'm most proud of getting back on the bike this year. After having to take 2 and a half years off with illness I finally got to get back cycling. What was most fun was spending a week in the lake district in September with some amazing weather which was a nice surprise considering how bad the summer was overall. It's not the Dolomites but the lake district is beautiful.

[@Midliferju1213]

😂 Katie at the beginning I felt awkward for you getting comfy ..you tube gold. I lost my sibling 💔 so I’m most proud of getting out the door as a starters…then to keep a level of consistency on my bike over each week and slowly building up bike fitness and giving me some moments of joy. Wishing you well and thank you ❤

[@KatieKookaburra]

You are doing so well and can't imagine how tough that is to deal with. Sending you a huge hug my friend and wishing you all the best in 2025 xx

[@Midliferju1213]

@ I really appreciate the words and thought…this is why I follow and rate you such a kind heart. Thank you ❤️

[@detsember]

The proudest moment this year was definitely riding in Ardeche, France with my father-in-law in October and smashing some really hilly routes. I’m based in Estonia where it’s really flat, so it was a bit frightening to deal with the climbing, but consistent training this summer absolutely paid off.

[@andreaplaskitt2315]

having been ruled by anxiety for many years, i started cycling to deal with it as many folks do. Anxiety has stopped me experiencing many things, cycling has brought me into experiencing things. I watched your videos for so long and eventually your words "its just riding a bike" has led me into audaxes, solo longer rides, encouraging others to ride and doing the one thing cycling Ive always avoided...hills....and this started with you. So even if i dont win, just want to say a massive thanks for what youve made possible for me

[@KatieKookaburra]

This is the nicest message thank you so much! you are doing awesome Andrea!!!! I love that you are getting out there and smashing it. Would be great to meet on an audax and do some miles together one day x

[@dhiammarath]

I'm proud of the fact that I battled my anxiety and brain-lies to ride by myself in New England during the peeping season! It was honestly the highlight of my year, too, because it was soooooo pretty in New Hamshire this fall. Absolutely beautiful. And given that I struggle to overcome the anxiety to get out and ride my bike... and then to go and do 100 miles over 5 days in a place I didn't know was the highlight of my year! I hope to do more of it, get out of my head more this upcoming year, because last year I did so much. This year was crippled by anxiety and health issues!

[@samibrahim-s2j]

I'm most proud of myself for completing a local Audax ride called Around the Bay (220km)! I only got a road bike this year and I was a very casual cyclist at best, generally riding 20-30km on weekends. Funnily enough, I only signed up because I had the flu and realised what I missed most was my bike. It felt like such a daunting thing to get ready for but the organisers sent out a 12 week training plan and it bloody worked :) Slowly but surely, I could ride longer and longer without feeling like I'd been hit by truck, and eventually the event itself turned out to be more mentally difficult than anything else! I also discovered an amazing local cycling community that I'm extremely grateful to be a part of.

[@CyclingwithRuss]

Hands down my biggest achievement was working with Mark getting my self ready for the Fred Whitton. Absolutely was so proud of my self for getting round that MONSTER of a course and also weighing 119 kg. Is it the land down under (Australia) ? id love to get some warm sun on my bones right now

[@yeeeeed1990]

I am most proud of myself for going to the Italy at the end of May to climb the Stelvio, Mortirolo and Gavia...and I got to the stop despite them being snow lined. I never thought I'd dare to do that on my own as a solo travel. The most fun I had, another solo travel trip to The Pyrenees this time which was inspired by yourself. I adored being at the top of the many beautiful climbs not just the Tourmalet!

[@mathewrose2951]

I am proud of the fact that, although I haven't hit my goal yet of 300w for an hour this year, I've come respectably close (295w for the hour) and my tempo rides are now at 280 for 60 to 90 minutes, which is higher than my absolute best for the year of 2021, so there's definitely growth over time, even as I'm getting ever closer to turning 50.

[@DougGrant-f8s]

The thing I’m most proud of is getting back on my bike a few months ago, after almost a year off. My best friend, and bike buddy, passed away suddenly in 2023 and I just couldn’t ride any more - it was just too painful. It took a long time for me to begin to come to terms with that, but I’m back in the saddle again and blowing the cobwebs away, mentally and physically. Thanks for the wonderful content, Katie. Merry Christmas

[@KatieKookaburra]

Doug...I am so sorry to hear that. I'm in tears reading that. I had already chosen 3 people but I have to give you a pair too because I want you to have the comfort music / podcasts give me on long solo rides. Sending you a big hug! Please email me [e-mail] xxxx

[@DougGrant-f8s]

Thanks so much, Katie. I’ve dropped you a note x

[@tonycalvin4496]

Most proud is completing a challenge of at least one Gran Fondo per month for 2024, really enjoyed it and kept me focused even in the colder and more challenging months through winter, great to have a target/challenge to focus on what ever the distance is.

[@nigellee2350]

The thing I am proudest of the most for this year is to have turned the small waste area by some communal parking into a well kept lawn with pollinators for the planet. The most fun on a bike has been riding around the Isle of Wight.

[@joelenthall]

Thanks for the videos Katie. Your pyrenees trip looked so amazing it made me want to get bike fit again in 2025 and start some adventures of my own. Invested in a smart trainer and have done almost 900km on zwift in the last three months. Helped me lose about 15kg and looking forward to hitting the tarmac in the new year!

[@ExpertTrigger]

I'm proud of myself for starting to exercise regularly. I started out biking about a year ago and now I'm in the gym weightlifting 4 days a week and I've stuck with it for almost 6 months so far! Love your content!

[@out_spocken]

Most proud of reaching the same distance this year as I did in 2017 after being hit at 50kmh by a car. Life was pretty dark for a few years being almost off the bike for a couple of years after, but being steadfastly and stubbornly committed to getting riding again, in as little as that might have been. Even 7 years on with chronic fatigue and nausea and some vertigo there are as many days I don't get on the bike. And when I do it's rarely a constant state of happiness like it was. But I'm grateful and proud that I can keep cycling. Why? Because I know how important it is to my mental state (as rough as that can still sometimes be) and how integral it is to existing...to surviving. And I wish it wasn't that I felt that I was. I know distance wise I am thriving again...but it doesn't feel like it always. But I try and appreciate the moments in a ride I feel great and can smile about the beauty of cycling. I'm proud of the people around me that keep me cycling too. I'm proud of the cycling community in my city that I rely on such much now to join in and ride with for motivation and inspiration. The real only other thing I'm proud of on the bike itself is a 350km day. Besting my overall (though solo) distance in 2017. The next challenge is getting the same vert and distance as 2017 for next year. That's going to take some doing. And it's going to take a lot of post ride bad days to do it too. Thanks for the content as always. Hope you build the fitness back up quickly. I'm heading into surgery at some point in the next year for a hernia after a group ride crash and am dreading my fitness falling off a cliff with 6 weeks zero activity recovery required. Will hit up some training plans like you suggested and see if you do more vids on the progress to peak fitness to gleam some tips.

[@KatieKookaburra]

I think we can all relate to that feeling of riding for our mental health too. And I'm so glad you carried on riding and enjoying it. Good luck and speedy recovery with the surgery. Don't rush back too quickly. Take the rest and the fitness will come back. And hopefully a pair of these headphone will help! You deserve them. :) Email me with your details my friend, [e-mail]

[@j.r.newton2427]

Thing I’m most proud of is my wife who rode around the Netherlands with me on a ‘proper’ bike (not her ebike)!!!!

[@geoffclarke3796]

Good to hear your fitness is coming back and enjoy your holiday in the sun. This winter so far in London has been pretty mild but its been cloudy for the most part with a fair bit of rain and very few sunny days which is not great, if like me, you suffer from SAD. I really hate the winter. Happy Christmas and best wishes for your biking adventures in 2025.

[@CameronMcMillan-b6x]

Bought a bike for commuting at the start of the year and now regularly riding 100km at a time. Had a run in with a car in the wet (these headphones would be perfect for reducing the risk here) and still got back on the bike as soon as I could. I'm just proud of myself for sticking with it and finding something I genuinely love doing. I also think (hope) you are coming to Australia, where I am!!

[@kirstanroberts2520]

I'm most of proud of joining my local RAPHA club (and completeig another Audax 600). I struggle to put myself in unfamiliar situations and meeting all new people, so yeah, I'm feeling pretty good about that. Great rides and lovely folks who I'm now maybe joining on a trip to Adelaide in January. My guess and major HOPE is that that is where you're travelling to. Please tell me you're coming to the Tour Down Under!!!! and please bring Stevie :)

[@bobtavener4824]

Fairly simple for me, doing the Garmin Ride out in the New Forest and meeting and chatting with Katie before the ride. Greatest ride? Coast to Coast in a day. What a fabulous experience. 🥰

[@gravelbikemark]

Struggled this year with injury and illness which has led to some mental issues put on a few stone but super proud I’ve not quit and still managed to clock up nearly 5000 miles (11% down on last year) I have set myself many goals next year to make me accountable starting with 20 miles min per day in jan for doddieaid.

[@Timonius93]

Good to see you back at it. Think for this year I am proudest how consistent it has been and that I finally started doing structured training outdoors. Lol, what is going on with the HR sensor? Cannot relate in the slightest.

[@matt46vale]

I've tickets off a few big achievements this year. The one I'm most proud of isn't cycling related. It's swimming. 18 months ago I couldn't swim a length of the pool without being out of breath. This September I swam 10km down the river Dart in Devon. It took me 3 hours. Had severe cramp exiting the water. Raisied money for charity and grown some gills along the way. Certainly a stand out for me.

[@andrewnorris5415]

My proudest ride of the year started when I saw some bargain tyres on FB marketplace. But, they were pickup only. I thought could I cycle it. But it was over 70 miles away and my only working bike was my mtb with knobbly tyres on. So I plotted a route that included off road. I made it! From Warrington, to Ashbourne. Went through quiet Cheshire lanes, and the fall colours with beautiful, esp. around Goostrey. Plenty of winter sun lighting them up. Did some canal around Stock on Trent. It was all fairly flat until finally some steep winding back road hills in the dark approaching Ashbourne. They added to the adventure! Finally made it! The guy was really nice and met me with his son and we had a good chat. He filled up my water bottles. The route home was the most fun, all in the dark. Took the Tissington trail all the way to Buxton. By then it was 10pm and totally dark (did it this Oct). I still got great views of the hills and the sheep as it was a full moon! Light mist too added to the atmosphere. Cycled the full length of the trail all to myself. First time I had ridden this trail, it was awesome. I felt awesome pushing myself and conquering! Then then entered Buxton via another great little windy trail to come out at the Parks In Pub. I had ridden here before but this time it was all quiet at the pub as closed. Headed into Buxton, got some free mineral water from the tap and food from the petrol station . Some people still out and about in the pubs which was a good atmosphere. And an amazing contrast, which is what get on these long adventure rides! Then I went up long Hill! Tyres were 2kg heavy wired ones for my mtb! Energy still ok! From there the long windy descent to Whaley Bridge. That was super fun in the dark. And no cars, zero. All to myself. Got cold though, it's crazy how long that descent was and temps were dropping! But it all added to the feeling of adventure. Loved it. Felt super safe with no traffic and moon light and my torch. From Whaley I cycled the canal to Marple. Past the sweet factory which was still at work, could see people inside. I enjoyed the smell of sweets and whaft of (slightly) warmer air from the fans. Then home via roads at first which were nice as some windy hills, then onto the trans penn trail to warrington.

[@bobwaddell841]

Just turned 70 and feel so fortunate that I have been able be physically active. This year I completed a week long bike ride across Michigan, backpacked 42 miles over 6 days on Isle Royale, MI and completed a 31km day trip via kayak on open water around Gross Ile, MI. With winter here now I need to get motivated to do more activities such as hiking. I'm not into the indoor trainer like Katie is.

[@timothyhall87]

I'm most proud this year that I was able to take up Zwift and continue with it almost daily. I have pushed myself to improve weekly so much so that I can't wait to set new goals and look forward to achieving them in 2025. I think that indoor cycling is a safe and sustainable long-term form of fitness that I am happy to have made a part of my life this year.

[@strauskp]

I am most proud of completing my first year at my local strength training gym! At 54, I know that I have never been stronger. And the most fun I had this year was our five day white water rafting trip on the Snake River in Idaho with family and friends!

[@sophianorris-k1v]

Most proud bike moment this year: My xmas present 2019 was a road bike that I asked for because I wanted to do social rides. Covid hit, so I didn't get on any group rides. Nearly five years later and after lots of solo riding, I plucked up the courage to join my first ever group ride. It was a Breeze ride and the ladies were so kind and friendly. I absolutely loved it.

[@kimandersen4116]

Thank you for your inspiring videos. What I am most proud of this year is that I’ve defied my 50 years with my lung disease Cystic fibrosis, and cycled 4,000 kilometers, and most of all, that I completed the Rapha Festive 500 last Christmas, which is a big goal for me again this year. I’m looking forward to following your January adventure-could you be heading down to Teide? 😊

[@238949]

Most proud this year of my first ever bike packing trip, it was only one night but at 61 years old, my first ever night spent under canvas and despite it being the worst nights sleep I've ever had , the trip was the most fun I've had this year and got to share it with my best mate Tanya who after usually only cycling about 5-10 miles max, did 51 miles in 2 days with me and only complained on day 2 of hunger as we had run out of snacks 🙂🙂

[@drewbudd]

I'm most proud of taking care of my health this year. It's been now a 16 year journey from 100kg to a stable 70-73kg and this year is where I went from 83-85kg down to under 70 for the first time ever. I've since stabilized a bit above 70kg but I'm never going back up again and in 2025 I'm just going to get fitter and fitter. I'm turning 37 and I feel like this year has added more years to my life than it has taken away 😊

[@RickF-j1f]

I’m proud that I did my first long distance ride since having back surgery. I did the 240 mile Katy Trail in 5 days.

[@EmmaAndNeil]

Every angle and any light makes you look perfect xx

[@Benito-lk1qi]

Hi Katie, I guess taiwan or Vietnam as the location of your next trip. I like your happiness and enthusiasm for biking😮😊❤. Thanks for sharing. Everyone at one point sees there fitness plummet. I am most proud of riding 39.8 miles on a heavy mountain bike that weights about 40lbs to 45lbs. I have 2 to 3 big bike rides planned next year,granted they aren't the long compared to the distances you do. They are approx. 40 to 50 miles in distance. Advanced Merry Christmas and happy holiday. Greeting from the USA 🇺🇸

[@andrewbartlett9934]

Hi Katie, my proudest moment of this year is cycling my first 200k ride, at the age of 67. Also I am proud to have started cycling again after a lapse of over 40 years. I was in a dark place mentally and started cycling again so I could cycle to Glastonbury festival and camp in the cyclist campsite which has decent toilets and hot showers. At the time I didn't realise the benefits that cycling has on mental health. I haven't looked back since.

[@gareth1991]

I'm most proud of starting the gym in January and loosing nearly 30kg. I've always been cycling but now found the confidence to do sportive rides and and going out in large groups with people i do know, so far doing London to Brighton on road and off on my gravel bike has been favourite. I've set my myself a goal for next year to complete the Dunwich Dynamo ride.

[@chrispaeplow5709]

Most proud of myself for not missing any episodes. Love your content

[@rodforney7184]

Good god it takes me forever to get dressed and get on the bike. I might never make it if I had to worry about lighting sound and video. That strava graph is exactly what happens to most of us in the northern hemisphere Nov-Feb. Just gave away a shokz for Christmas need to get myself one, happy holidays Katie.

[@mopedtobias9049]

Hey Katie, I am proud that I booked a trip to the canaries for two weeks alone cycling the granguanche trail in January. Did hope to meet you on one of the climbs though. I think I came past you once on Tenerife.

[@kerstiomalley2740]

When I first started cycling about 6 years ago I dreamed of going up Ventoux. This year, I finally got the opportunity. With my teaching job I can only do school holidays and can’t afford to take trips for cycling. However I dragged the family to France and I got to climb it with my lovely husband on his e-bike. I absolutely loved it and felt so grateful to be there, smelling the lavender . Cycling dream achieved and Alpe d’huez is next.

[@cjmooncat]

My proudest moment is co-creating The Pink Flamingo’s Cycle Team. A small group of friends cycling from Northampton to Le Mans, France next June to raise money for two charities. None of us had seriously ridden on the road before deciding to do this. Since then, I’ve signed up for numerous other long rides including New Forest, Etap Caledonia and Cotswolds 100. Go big or go home! 💪🏽

[@scubasamst]

You're going to Dubai! I'm proud of organising and completing my first solo bike packing trip in Scotland a few months ago. Loved cycling past the Gelpies.

[@onthehillmtb]

Broken Back. I’m now back on the bike again after major surgery January 2024 to pin broken vertebrae from an mtb crash in Sheffield. I’m overjoyed that I can ride again and build my strength and fitness back up to (almost) the same level as before the crash. Lots of work on the gravel bike to do throughout the winter to be ready for next season’s racing. Working hard to make a full recovery and try to move on with the new normal Love your videos! Merry Xmas🎄 Rob.

[@tomkweb]

Stay with it Rob! I've recovered from a broken back and hip, so you can too! Don't stop!

[@onthehillmtb]

@@tomkwebThanks for the positive comments Tom. You too, keep getting stronger every day.

[@jasonaustin5919]

My most proud on my bike this year is completing the Granguanche Road back in January. Was awesome trip I also want up to fitness and struggled at times. Was Brill. Which comes to what your doing in January I think your doing the Granguanche Road event too. Merry Xmas and happy new year. ❤

[@dndlab1]

Most proud achievment this year fitness wise was dropping from 106kg to 76kg managed to get 6months soild riding in, all of this helped give me the confidence to apply for a promotion for work, i got the job too

[@huntos83]

I am most proud of myself this year for making it to the end of the Pan Celtic Race. It was extremely tough battling through some terrible weather, starting with 100 miles overnight through rain and stinging hail around the Isle of Man, followed the day after by heading to the Lake District to do basically the Fred Whitton route in reverse, savage but very beautiful. Then onwards through the rain up in to Scotland and all the way up the exposed but stunning west coast and islands before tackling Bealach Na Ba on the last day and finishing in Inverness. It was an incredible experience, but extremely tough. I didn’t think I would make it a lot of the time and had some real low points, but also some amazing highs. Very proud to have finished it under my own power. The most fun experience would also be in the same event. After all the adversity, meeting up with a group of lovely riders in the highlands and sharing some miles, a slap up dinner and accommodation for the night was incredibly uplifting. Some great friends made.

[@MattyMediocre]

I'm proud that I finally got into Zwifting so I can ride year-round instead of taking 4-5 months off like a couch potato.

[@garyward2837]

This year i did a coast to coast route. Blackpool to Scarborough (137 miles) in a day. Not massive i know but over the winter I'd lost my mojo. Watching your videos, esp the Yorkshire dales, inspired me to get out on my bike. Thank you for your inspirational videos👍

[@simonkilsby3445]

I’m most proud that I’m 6 weeks into a Zwift back to fitness training plan, inspired by your travels and those head phones would be amazing to help me stick with to complete the 12 week plan.