Cyclists wishing to train for a purpose while making new friends and improving their fitness should look no further than the YMCA East Surrey’s Ride the Alps Challenge.
Active bikers can enjoy a 221-mile scenic cycle ascending to 29,174 ft (8,892 m), equivalent to the height of Mount Everest. This takes place from 11th – 15th July 2025.
Starting at Le Bourg-d’Oisans in Southeastern France, the ride scales eight iconic Tour de France mountains. Participants are part of a fully supported group with two vehicles offering drinks and lunch at scenic spots. Crucially, free group cycle fitness training starts in Redhill, Surrey on January 26th, organised by the charity.
Ride the Alps is one of the YMCA East Surrey’s key challenge events. “There are numerous health benefits to cycling”, explains Ian Burks, CEO at YMCA East Surrey. “Documented evidence shows that aerobic fitness, such as cycling, improves mental wellbeing, strengthens the immune system, builds muscle and improves lung function while cutting the risk of heart disease and cancer. It’s also a great way to connect with people over a shared challenge and take time out of busy schedules to achieve something for yourself in 2025!”
There are many health benefits to cycling. According to Sport England data, typically in Surrey, one in 10 people cycle each week and 40 per cent do so for leisure.
The Ride the Alps challenge will fundraise for the Life Change Fund, helping young people in the region build resilience, belief and confidence to overcome life’s challenges. The activity costs £895 per person, assuming a fundraise of £600. The price includes return flights to Lyon, in France, hotel transfers, accommodation, breakfast, lunch, snacks, bike transport, full support and training. All completers also gain a medal and cycling shirt.
To find out more, please visit https://www.ymcaeastsurrey.org.uk/get-involved/challenge-events/ride-the-alps/ or email challenge@ymcaeastsurrey.org.uk, or call 01737 779979.
