Hi Villagers,
I’m Ian Thompson, an enthusiastic Main Beach Villager and early riser who’s been fortunate enough to call this paradise home. Here in Main Beach, we’re blessed with a plethora of options to stay active and healthy. Whether it’s walking with or without your dog, surfing, gym workouts, Pilates, yoga (indoors or outdoors), still water swimming, dragon boat rowing, cycling, tennis, or pickleball, there’s something for everyone.
Steve asked me to share my story because he knows, as I do, that exercise is a cornerstone of longevity and health. If my journey can inspire even one person to start some form of exercise, then it’s worth sharing. Remember the Nike slogan: JUST DO IT.
I recently celebrated my 82nd birthday by riding one kilometre for each year of my life. Despite heavy rain the night before, I didn’t let the weather deter me. I recalled the Nike slogan and ended up cycling 83.03 kilometres. This ride marked over 75,000 kilometres on my bike, which I’ve had since 2016.
My usual morning ride starts at 5am, taking me from Main Beach to Paradise Point and back, covering about 43 kilometres. One of my favourite stops is the Bakery at Paradise Point, where a group of regulars gathers at 5am for coffee and conversation, always enjoying a hearty laugh. It’s much like our evening social gatherings here in Main Beach, but I tend to remember more from the morning chats!
Currently, I cycle four days a week and spend two days at the Aquatic Centre, always finishing with stretching and balance exercises—arguably the most crucial part of my routine.
Over the years, I’ve met many people with inspiring stories and diverse reasons for exercising. Recently, I spoke with a regular walker on the Southport Bridge who I had noticed had difficulty walking and wore a brace on his leg. He told me he’s been paralyzed on one side of his body for years, the result of a fall from a ladder when he was 26. Despite this, he walks most mornings. Another memorable encounter was with a cyclist who joined me on a ride against a strong northerly wind. He encouraged me by saying, “Don’t worry mate, when we turn around, the wind will be behind us.” I later realized he had a prosthetic leg. These encounters remind me to be grateful and determined.
Steve Holmes’ story is also incredibly inspiring. If you’re not familiar with it, I recommend talking to him over coffee or a beer.
In closing, I might call myself a CYCOLOGIST, a MAMIL ON LSD—Mature Aged Man on Long Slow Distance. A quote I read recently resonates with me: “For me, the link between exercise and an improved mental state is undeniable. The endorphins that are released, the clarity it can give you, and the health benefits make it a no-brainer. I know I always feel better for it.”
Remember, health is wealth. Just something to ponder over.
Regards, Ian Thompson
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