In the realm of indoor cycling performance, the pioneering brand Wattbike is taking a bold step forward, lending support to the Sport Parkinson’s community in an epic 1000-mile Cycle Challenge. On the cusp of Saturday, May 6, 2023, four intrepid cyclists, all of whom grapple with Parkinson’s disease, will tackle a daunting feat: 1000 virtual miles from John O’Groats to Lands End in a mere 10 days. These men will summon their collective strength and each ride 25 miles a day on their trusty Wattbikes, totaling 250 miles over the course of the challenge and 1000 miles total. The team hopes to rake in £10,000 for Sport Parkinson’s, concurrently inspiring their fellow Parkinson’s comrades with the limitless possibilities of cycling as a catalyst for symptom relief.
Seven years ago, Charlie Appleyard, Founder of Sport Parkinson’s, chanced upon research underscoring the therapeutic potential of cycling in treating the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Galvanized by the findings, Charlie promptly procured a Wattbike of his own, diligently pedaling away ever since. The research he unearthed demonstrated that 2.5 hours of rigorous exercise each week could halt the progression of Parkinson’s and mitigate its symptoms. With a Wattbike in hand, a rider can effectively monitor both their revolutions per minute (RPM) and wattage output, with research determining that the “sweet spot” for regeneration rests at 80 RPM / 200W for at least 30 minutes.
For Charlie, the Wattbike has proven to be nothing short of transformative, imbuing his life with newfound vitality and bolstering his confidence. “I have used a Wattbike since my diagnosis and it has really helped me keep focused and working at the right level of intensity to benefit my Parkinson’s,” he shares. “My balance is shocking, and I couldn’t ride a bike on the open road for fear of impending accidents. So having my trusty Wattbike keeps me fit, controls my symptoms, but also keeps me alive. I’m really looking forward to using this event to help show others with Parkinson’s what a great support cycling can be for them, whilst raising vital funds for Sport Parkinson’s.”
Five businesses, including Wattbike, Annapurna Recruitment, Babble, RocSearch, and Saatchi & Saatchi Wellness, will also be a part of the challenge. With each business having a Wattbike set up in their offices, staff members will prepare to cycle the 1000-mile distance as a team relay, with Richard Baker of Wattbike among those joining the team out on the road for their final spin into Lands End.
Richard speaks of his delight at the prospect of supporting Charlie and the Sport Parkinson’s team in their pursuit of this monumental feat. He notes that it has been an eye-opening experience witnessing the remarkable impact that the Wattbike has had on Charlie’s ability to manage his disease. “I’m looking forward to joining the team on the final day’s ride,” he enthuses, “and to celebrate with them on the journey to Lands End.”
Wattbike’s new CEO, Stephen Loftus, echoes these sentiments, citing the importance of this event in raising both awareness and funds for a highly worthy cause. “I’m blown over with the drive and determination of Charlie and his team,” he declares, “and wish everyone taking part the very best!”
For more information on how you can support the Sport Parkinson’s 1000-mile Cycling Challenge, visit https://www.sportparkinsons.com.
Whether you’re a professional cyclist or simply looking to stay in shape, Wattbike’s innovative technology and expertly crafted machines can help take your performance to the next level. So why wait? Discover the power of cycling today with Wattbike, and join us in supporting the Sport Parkinson’s 1000-mile Cycling Challenge as we work together to raise awareness and funds for this incredibly important cause.