About
My name is Gareth, I am originally from England, but now I live in the Netherlands. I teach in an International School in the Hague and teach pupils from all around the world.
It is a great job, and it always me to inspire others, help make a difference and motivate others to achieve.
Besides teaching, I enjoy being in the outdoors and have a passion for cycling, hiking and running. I cycle daily to work and run regularly. I have recently helped to bring Parkrun to my home city of Rotterdam and now work with others in hosting this popular weekly event.
I am also a qualified outdoor education practitioner who actively encourage others to use the outdoors as a learning tool and for recreation. As a result, I share those ideas on my website.
How long have you been cycle commuting?
I cycle to work between the cities of Rotterdam and The Hague every day. A round trip of 52km, which often can differ with the route I decide to take.
I have always loved cycling and have participated in Triathlons and Cyclocross events for many years.
My Cycle Commuting started many years ago when I moved to London. I worked around 7 miles from my home and always felt that using the car or going on public transport was never my thing.
I was always fit, active, and I always found it rather challenging to keep still. Coupled with the fact, I crave fresh air, it seemed myself and cycling work hand in hand.
As a result, using my first pay packet, I bought a good bike, and the rest is history, as they say. After the purchase, it opened up a whole new world for me, as it allowed me to have a great sense of freedom and purpose.
I regularly saved money, beat the traffic jams, commuter crowds, and my choices generally made me feel a whole lot better.
Since moving to the Netherlands 5 years ago, the bike has become an integral part of my life. Living in the Netherlands means that everyone cycles everywhere. It is part of the culture, and the cycling infrastructure is so safe and accessible; it is hard not to get on your bike and enjoy.
Now, I cycle to work back and forth to work daily and everywhere in between, to the city, park and the shops. It is the normal thing to do!
Your Commute
As I have previously eluded to, my commute is between Rotterdam and the Hague. It is a direct route of 52km, with some variations due to the weather or how I am feeling.
Sometimes I tend to take the route longer and cycle down the north sea coast or go inland and aim for the picturesque countryside.
This commute takes around an hour and is then mainly dependent on the wind and the cycle traffic lights not continually being on red. I complete this trip every day unless I’m ill or snow and ice hamper the cycling conditions.
The terrain is very flat, with most of it being under sea level. Therefore it can get rather exciting when you climb up and over a bridge or down a dyke.
I travel between two big cities and a town in between, so most of the ride is in an urban context. Never do I go on the road – it is always using the cycle lines. So, I am generally very safe and away from other vehicles. The only thing that tends to slow down your progress is crossing the junctions of a major road and the red lights that stop you.
My route also has some open landscapes that are beautiful and serene, with plenty of water and windmills found all around. As a result, my nemesis is the wind. The wind can be brutal at times and especially during the winter months.
Over the years, I have learnt to cope with the wind, but I wouldn’t say we have become the best of friends. It does slow your progress, but with it, in your back, it can speed you up. It does help to be prepared for it, and cautious you don’t fall. I always check the weather and alter my route; this helps me to avoid any potential problems.
What is the best thing about Cycle Commuting?
I have always been an active person, and I love the outdoors. I tend to like my own space and Cycle Commuting gives me some much-needed headspace away from the challenges of work.
Exercise is a big part of my life, and by cycling to work, I can undertake a very beneficial workout without it hampering my family time.
Cycling so early in the morning is also a great way to start the day. It refreshes you and gives you a great sense of purpose for what awaits at work. I have learnt to follow a strict routine, and it works very well.
I’m also a keen advocate of ‘saving the planet’ and think that everyone can do their bit to help. The Netherlands is a small country, and it is easy to get around, so I feel that using the car or public transport for short journeys is not necessary. Over the years, it feels great that people have encouraged me to follow my dreams and supported me to change my commuter habits. It makes me feel good, and I am so pleased that I have become so open to change.
Your bikes
Gosh! I have a few bikes in and around the house, and thankfully I have sold a few to make room!
My latest commuter bike is a Cube SL road, which I tend to use when travelling to work. Sometimes I still use my Specialized Sirrus Sport. Sadly, the Specialized is getting a little old now, but it has been hugely reliable to me over the years. The bike has been slightly modified to house a pannier rack so that I can pack work into them when I need too.
I also have a CycloCross bike which I tend to use in the Spring and Summer months when the weather is a little drier. It is a Giant TCX; it is robust, sturdy and speedy. I tend to use it on my longer routes home, when I can extend the journey, travel along the coastal paths and still be back in time for dinner.
Any top tips?
Preparation – I think it is essential to be prepared for all eventualities. The weather is a big one, as are those dreaded punctures, mechanical problems and the constant need to keep the bike clean. If you are well prepared, then you can concentrate on pedalling and enjoying the commute.
Routine – I like routines and have learnt that following a daily is essential. I get up at the same time, generally eat the same type of breakfast, and it helps!
Don’t give up! It is so easy to start and then soon give up. I admire following others that help motivate me, and it is refreshing to think people also respect you and the commitment you make.
I am too humble to let it bother me, though. I tend to keep my head down and let the miles/km do the talking.
Additional Info.
As I say, I am continually motivated to push myself to achieve things and make the most of my life. I love riding my bike, and it has been a massive part of me and my personality for a long time.
I wouldn’t be able to do it without being determined, but also without the support and motivation of others doing the same kind of thing.
By looking closer at what others do, sharing stories, ideas and supporting one another is the perfect way to make you realise it isn’t an easy thing to do, but the benefits are enormous.
Happy Cycle Commuting!
Blog: https://www.garethmate.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garethmate
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