Magic of the mind

Endurance rider Leigh Timmis on the powerful link between mental health and cycling performance

- Leigh Timmis

Long before I broke the record for the fastest cycle ride across Europe, I knew that cycling had a powerful connection with my mental health – and that the two were mutually beneficial. I always remember how happy cycling made me as a kid. Even today, when I get on the bike, real life can’t catch up with me.

One day, my bike came back to help me, at a time when I was really struggling. I’d left university and was soon caught in the endless pursuit of success. I worked as a film-maker in my mid-20s – great job, good pay, but I sacrificed important things, such as friends and cycling. In the end, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. But the bike became my salvation.

After a few soul-searching trips, I decided to cycle around the world. I left in 2010 and it took seven years to cycle 70,800km across 51 countries. It kept all my worries in perspective. I had a very simple goal – ride east and see what happens!

But soon after I came back, I was confronted with new pressures, relationship issues and responsibilities. Again, I became overwhelmed and anxious. I needed a new challenge – and set out to complete the fastest cycle ride across Europe.