KZN Vitality cycling team wants to inspire the youth

It's never too late to start

Cycling has increasingly become one of the most popular ways for South Africans to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors. Bike riding competitions and local park rides are popping up all over the country, but it hasn't always been that way. In the past, cycling enthusiasts were one of two extremes, either professional cyclists with Tour de France ambitions or part of a small group that rode around the Cape's promenade and mountains. Now that cycling has taken off and many Durbanites enjoy taking in the views and the great weather while riding, more and more groups have formed to ride as much as possible.

Venothan Pillay from Phoenix, Durban, KwaZulu Natal (KZN) is one of many adults in South Africa who've reignited their childhood love for cycling. "I was a very sporty kid growing up, but as I got older into being a young adult, I lost interest in sports as I was under the impression that cycling was for kids. I cared more about working and a social life instead," said Venothan.

There's something about becoming a teenager that makes you think bikes are uncool and should only be ridden by children. What used to be a fun and exhilarating activity growing up gets downgraded to a social life killer.

Riding on the Promenade

With the health and wellness boom taking off worldwide, it has brought with it a wave of runners and cyclists in KZN. Cycling is a low impact aerobic exercise that offers a wealth of benefits as your heart, blood vessels and lungs all get a workout. You will breathe deeper, perspire and experience increased temperature, which will improve your overall fitness level.

Cycling also varies in intensity so it's suitable for all levels. Research shows that the sport can protect you from serious diseases such as stroke, heart attack, depression, diabetes, obesity and various other illnesses.

After years of living an unhealthy lifestyle and partying, Venothan felt unfit and unhealthy. Thankfully before things got too out of hand, he was invited by a colleague to join them on a ride on the Durban Promenade. "I dusted my old bike and started a new journey," commented Venothan. The 44 year old is now an integral part of the Team Vitality cycling team, he loves the sport and what it has done for his life overall. "After a few weekends of rides with them I got to love this sport, cycling works well for me and I feel great," said Venothan enthusiastically.

"Joining and riding with Team Vitality has moved me up the ladder; I am getting a lot of support, guidance and inspiration from some pro riders."

The team that Venothan is benefiting from has riders on all levels; some only enjoy riding on weekends, while others take part in races and tours all around the country. All riders are welcome, it's about encouraging each other and sharing the love for the sport.

Inspiring the future

Becoming a member of the Team Vitality cycling team has had an astounding impact on Venothan, so much so that he wants to inspire the younger generation. He sees how different his life would've been had he chosen to continue with sports and outdoor activities. Not only the health benefits but how sports encourages focus and dedication, tools you can use anywhere in your life. "I now also want to start encouraging the younger generation in my area to get active and we are there to assist, guide and motivate them, spreading the love of keeping healthy," he says.

The Team Vitality cycling team welcomes a diverse range of people, it's never too late or early to start your cycling journey.

You can catch Veno and our other Team Vitality champions at Team Vitality Zones across the country.