Not a Superhero: Pedaling Towards Change
I'm Björn, a photographer from Hamburg, fueled by cycling and adventure. Inspired by my late father’s health struggles, Not a Superhero is my mission to improve fitness, mental well-being, and heart health. Join me for honest reflections, cycling adventures, and balanced vegan living.
Hej there!
Welcome to "Not a Superhero," a journey that delves into the realms of cycling, health, and self-discovery. I'm Björn, a professional photographer from Hamburg, and my heart beats for cycling and adventure.
Walking this path with me, in life and spirit, is Jana, my partner and co-conspirator at Ride Punk Ride. While Jana may not be directly involved in this project, her influence and unwavering support are always by my side.
'Not a Superhero' is my personal campaign to improve my health and fitness through sheer determination. Inspired by the powerful lyrics 'And I am not a superhero,' I firmly believe that significant changes don't necessitate superhuman abilities—just real, tangible steps and unwavering determination.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Seventeen years ago, I lost my father in his mid-50s due to heart complications. With my 47th birthday approaching, it's clear that this wake-up call needs to finally set in. Having faced personal health challenges and witnessing the impact of poor health on my family, I am committed to making a change. My mission is to improve my health, reduce weight, lower BMI, and promote both heart and mental health. This project is not just about personal transformation; it's about inspiring others who face similar challenges to take control of their health.
A Moment in Time: The Day Everything Changed
Performing with my band Hoods Up, just hours after learning about my father's passing. A makeshift tribute written on my arm served as a symbol of love and remembrance, while music became my catharsis, channeling raw pain into the performance and finding solace on stage.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Here's what you can look forward to:
- Personal Stories and Reflections: I'll share my journey, struggles, and victories. Expect honesty, a fair bit of self-deprecating humor, and some heartfelt moments.
- Cycling Adventures: Insights from my bikepacking and gravel biking experiences, routes, and tips for fellow enthusiasts. Plus, expect some stunning photography from my rides!
- Health and Wellness: Tips on maintaining a balanced vegan diet, mental health practices, and daily movement routines.
- Community and Inclusivity: Highlights from The EVERYbody Ride, promoting mental health awareness and inclusivity. I'll also share stories from our vibrant community.
MY JOURNEY
- Regular Cycling: Cycling has always been a passion of mine. I integrate both indoor and outdoor cycling into my routine using training plans from Enduco. This helps me stay active, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a structured fitness regimen.
- Daily Movement: Balancing my sedentary job as a photographer, I aim to incorporate daily walks and fitness exercises to stay active throughout the day. This helps combat the adverse effects of prolonged sitting. Overcoming the habit of spending long hours on the computer and watching TV at night isn't easy. Still, it's necessary for a healthier lifestyle.
- Nutrition: Maintaining a balanced vegan diet is crucial. I use the Yazio app to track my nutritional intake, ensuring I get the necessary nutrients for optimal health and performance. My diet focuses on whole foods, plant-based proteins, and balanced macronutrients.
- Mental Health: Physical health is deeply connected to mental well-being. Incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices helps manage stress and maintain a positive outlook. These practices are essential for overall health and complement my physical fitness efforts. I plan to use mental health tracking tools, such as journaling and mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm, to monitor my progress.
Your support is invaluable to me. If you resonate with my journey, I invite you to hit the "Subscribe" button to stay updated and be an integral part of this adventure. Share your thoughts and comments, and let's foster a community that's all about exploration, healing, and liberation from the conventional. I'm eagerly anticipating hearing your stories and connecting with each and every one of you.
Thank you for being here. Let's ride this journey together!
Ride on,
Björn