Lachlan Soper

  Looking for a new hobby that’s as good for your mind as it is for your body? Look no further than cycling. This two-wheeled wonder isn’t just about fitness—it’s a lifestyle, a form of therapy, and a ticket to adventure. Here’s why cycling might just be the thing you didn’t know you needed. 1. It’s the Ultimate Stress-Buster Cycling is one of the best ways to clear your head. Whether you’re weaving through bushland trails or cruising along a quiet backroad, it’s a form of moving meditation. The rhythmic motion of the pedals, the fresh air, and the feeling of speed all help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. It’s exercise and escape rolled into one. 2. It’s Low Impact, High Reward Not all exercise is created equal. Running, for example, can take a toll on your knees and hips over time. Cycling, on the other hand, is a smooth, low-impact activity that builds cardiovascular health and leg strength without punishing your joints. It’s perfect for all ages and fitness levels...

  As parents, we often search for ways to make physical activity enjoyable and sustainable for our families. One such activity that ticks all the boxes is cycling. Cycling isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about fostering a healthy lifestyle and mindset, especially when experienced as a family unit. Here are four ways cycling as a family promotes a healthy view of exercise to your children. 1. Bonding Time in Nature Australia is blessed with stunning landscapes and diverse natural beauty, making it the perfect backdrop for family cycling adventures. Whether it's along coastal bike paths, rail trails through lush forests, or around picturesque parks, cycling allows families to immerse themselves in nature while bonding over shared experiences.  As children pedal alongside their parents, they're not just exercising their bodies but also their minds as they take in the sights, sounds, and scents of the great outdoors. These shared moments create lastin...

  When a parent tells their child they can’t do something it’s because they have a reason behind it. Whether you tell them they can’t go to the park to play or hang out with a friend after school, the word ‘no’ has to be said every once in a while (and sometimes quite often, depending on the personality of your child).  If you don’t set boundaries with your child from a young age, they will grow up and assume they don’t have to ask for permission once a teenager. Some ways of saying no are more effective than others and can help you show your children that you care for them. Here are some ways you can say no to your child and show that you mean it. Give a Definite Answer It’s normal for children to get upset when they ask for something and receive a “We’ll see…” or “It depends…” as the answer. If you want to say no, then just say it clearly. To show them that you’re serious, be sure to say it in a firm, yet caring tone. There could be times when your answer is ‘maybe’ because ...

Australia is well known for its oceans, open plains, rainforests, and mountains, making it one of the best places for hikers to spend their days. Here are a few of the best hiking trails to explore. Overland Tracks, Tasmania This trail takes up about 65km of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. This beautiful trail has amazing views which include D’Alton and Ferguson falls. If you’re not comfortable with walking on your own you can book a guided walk with the park’s wildlife services. Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out to this trail because it is known to be very wet! Binna Burra to Green Mountains, Queensland This track passes through the Atlantic Beech Forest and subtropical rainforests giving hikers amazing views. If you stop at the Wanungara Lookout you’ll have a view of Limpwood Valley, Mount Warning, and sometimes even Byron Bay. This hike can take up most of the day so be sure to stay hydrated and dress accordingly. Six Foot Track, New South Wales ...

  Le Tour de France starts this Saturday. For cycling fans this is a great relief in this year of turmoil in so many areas. It will be a little different. Everyone will be masked pre and post each stage and if a team gets 2 members (riders or support staff) positive for COVID-19 they get scratched immediately. Wise for minimising the spread of infection, sad if your favourite rider gets scratched because the bike mechanic or masseuse has COVID-19. Even though Ineos won again last year (with their 4th different rider since 2012), it was a more open race than there had been in years. This year is even more open for possible winners – from Multiple teams. Team Jumbo Visma appears to finally overtaken Ineos (formerly Sky) as the super team. Regardless of who you support, many will be pleased that the dominance of Ineos at least has a viable challenger. Jumbo Visma has a super team with Primoz Roglic as their team captain with Tom Dumoulin as their other protected rider. Last year Rogli...

For a cyclist to be at the top of their game, their body needs to be in tip-top shape. Many beginners and some experienced riders tend to forget is is the benefits of stretching before and after a bike ride. Because  cycling is a repetitive motion exercise , stretching helps limber up the body, ease soreness, and prevent injury. Check out these great stretches for cyclists: Thoracic Mobility Stretch After hunching over handlebars while on your ride, you can cause severe tension in your mid-back. A great way to ease this soreness is through the  thoracic mobility stretch . To do a thoracic mobility stretch, simply kneel in front of a stable surface like a table or chair on both of your knees. Then you’ll want to place your hands in together, bring both arms up so your elbows are parallel to ears, and finally bend over at the waist and place elbows on the surface. It’s essential to keep your arms bent at a 90-degree angle while your neck is in a neutral position. Once you drop t...