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Why I Switched from Running to Touring Cycling—And Never Looked Back

touring cyclist on a bicycle tour

As someone who was once a marathon runner, switching to cycling wasn’t part of the plan—it was a necessity. After a serious knee injury and reconstructive surgery, I had to give up the pounding pavement. What began as a rehab-friendly activity became something much more: a lifestyle, a passion, and a gateway to adventure. Touring cycling has not only preserved my fitness, but it’s enriched my life in ways I never expected.

Here’s why touring cycling might just be the best decision you ever make.


1. It's Gentle on the Joints

Let’s start with the obvious: cycling is low-impact. After knee surgery, I needed movement that wouldn’t aggravate my joints. Cycling gave me a way to stay active, build strength, and protect my knees—all while feeling the joy of movement again.


2. You Can Explore So Much More

One of the greatest joys of touring cycling is how much ground you can cover. Unlike running, which limits how far you can reasonably go in a day, cycling allows you to travel dozens of miles without pushing into dangerous fatigue. You can ride across cities, towns, and vast countryside—all in a single day.


3. It's a Window Into Different Cultures

Touring on a bicycle offers a deeply immersive travel experience. You’re not speeding by behind glass—you’re out in the open, stopping in small towns, chatting with locals, eating regional food, and learning history firsthand. It’s slow travel at its best, giving you time to connect with the places and people you encounter.


4. It Deepens Your Connection with Nature

Riding a bike puts you in touch with the rhythm of the natural world. You hear the birds, smell the wildflowers, and feel the wind in a way you never could inside a vehicle. Whether it's along a coast, through a mountain pass, or across a quiet prairie road, the journey becomes a sensory experience.


5. Scenic Routes and Hidden Gems

Cycling lets you take the backroads, detours, and scenic trails that cars often miss. These are the routes where you'll find hidden waterfalls, stunning vistas, and peaceful forests. You’ll take the long way—and be grateful you did.


6. Fresh Air, Sunlight, and Vitamin D

Spending hours outside cycling exposes you to fresh air and natural light, which are essential for physical and mental health. I’ve noticed a huge boost in mood, energy, and even sleep quality since cycling became a regular part of my life.


7. It’s Social—If You Want It to Be

Touring doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit. There are countless cycling clubs and group rides out there for every experience level. I’ve made great friendships through cycling—and some of the best moments happen not just on the road, but at the cafe stops and campgrounds.


8. Challenge Yourself and Grow

Touring cycling can be a physical and mental challenge—but that's exactly why it’s so rewarding. Whether you’re planning a weekend loop or riding across a state, you’ll need to train, plan, and push your limits. With each mile, your confidence and resilience grow.


9. Set Goals, Achieve Them, and Feel Incredible

There’s no feeling like reaching a town after a 70-mile day or completing your first multi-day tour. Goal-setting is a natural part of touring, and the sense of accomplishment you get from meeting those goals is unmatched. You don’t just get fitter—you grow stronger in every way.


Final Thoughts: Pedal Into a Better Life

Touring cycling has given me a second act after running. It’s not just a low-impact replacement—it’s an entirely new and exhilarating experience that has transformed how I travel, connect, and stay fit. Whether you’re recovering from injury, looking for a new challenge, or simply want to explore more of the world, cycling can take you there—literally and figuratively.

So, if you’re standing at a crossroads like I once was, know this: there’s a bike waiting to take you somewhere unforgettable. All you have to do is start pedaling.


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