Discover the benefits of cycling with the Fund’s Heritage Ride
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Looking for a new way to boost your wellbeing, get outdoors and make a difference? The RAF Benevolent Fund’s virtual Heritage Ride 2025 offers the chance to improve your physical and mental health while supporting the RAF Family.
No matter your experience level, now is the perfect time to get involved. Here are five inspiring reasons to start cycling and feel the difference it can make.
1. Boost your mood and reduce stress
Cycling is more than just exercise; it is a proven mood-lifter. The rhythm of pedalling helps your body release endorphins and serotonin, reducing stress and anxiety. Taking even a short ride can help clear your head and leave you feeling more positive and energised. Whether you're riding solo or with others in the challenge, this is your time to reconnect with yourself and your goals.
2. Improve your fitness
Cycling is a low-impact activity that’s easy on the joints and adaptable for all fitness levels. Regular cycling improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and boosts energy levels, helping you feel fitter and more resilient every day.
With the Heritage Ride, you can set your own distance, so whether you’re taking on 40 or 100 miles, you can pace yourself and build up gradually to reach your target and improve your fitness day by day.
3. Connect with your surroundings
The Heritage Ride celebrates RAF history, and there’s no better way to experience it than outdoors. Whether you’re exploring RAF landmarks, or enjoying a favourite route, time in the fresh air is great for mental wellbeing. Natural light, fresh air, and the sounds of nature all help refresh the mind.
If you’re deployed, why not make the most of your local surroundings? From country roads to coastal paths or circuits near your base, spending time outdoors offers a welcome break and a chance to recharge.
4. Make it mindful
Cycling can be a form of moving meditation. Focus on your breathing, the feel of the wind, and the rhythm of the ride. Many cyclists find this mindfulness helps them feel calmer and more present.
5. Be part of something bigger
Every mile you ride helps support serving and former RAF personnel and their families. You’ll join a community of riders celebrating RAF heritage and showing gratitude to those who continue to serve. It’s a meaningful way to boost your wellbeing while making a real difference, from wherever you are in the world.
Join the RAF Benevolent Fund’s virtual Heritage Ride 2025 and experience the benefits of cycling for yourself. Your heritage, your ride, your way.