Pedals, Paths & Real Talk — How Movement Opens Doors

A Personal Story That Unfolded on Two Wheels

I’d walked plenty, but didn’t really identify as a cyclist… until one spring morning changed everything.

After a knee injury , I borrowed a friend’s bike and went for a ride—no pace, just curiosity. By mile five, under the sunshine, everything slowed—air, thoughts, worries. On the way back, I unexpectedly met a guy I barely knew from work. On a whim, he changed his route, and suddenly we were pedalling side by side.

We didn’t begin with “How are you?”—just shared the peace and fresh air. Conversation, when it came, felt effortless. That moment didn’t fix everything, but it cracked open something important. A shared rhythm made space for a laugh, a sigh, a story. That’s how MoMENtum grew—through movement that bridges silence.

Over nearly 15 years as a counsellor working with men from all walks of life (and before that, my early career in construction), I’ve seen that connection doesn’t always come easy. But put two feet—or two wheels—moving forward together, and the walls come down. That’s the magic MoMENtum aims for.

In the News: Why Cycling Connects More Than Wheels

A recent story in Cycling Weekly featured Chris Hall, a UK cyclist riding the entire coastline to raise awareness for men's mental health through Movember. He’s doing it not for speed or medals, but to start real conversations—because suicide is the biggest killer of men worldwide. Along the way, strangers hop on, talk, and ride together. (Source: Cycling Weekly) Cycling Weekly

Other UK research underscores why side-by-side activity matters. A Cycling UK study points out that cycling helps reduce stress, release endorphins, and ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. Movement becomes both a bridge and a release. Cycling UK

That’s precisely what MoMENtum fosters: informal, low-pressure mental connection through physical movement. You're not being set up for a heart-to-heart—just offered a walk, a ride, a seat... and the rest follows naturally.

3 Tips for Joining That First Ride or Walk

1. Pick an activity that moves you (literally)

   Whether it’s cycling, walking, or paddleboarding—find what feels good. Side-by-side connection makes space for real conversation, no pressure.

   
   

2. Start with the scenery, not the chat

   Begin with what surrounds you—a view, a new place —as your opening. Conversation often comes second, naturally.

   
   

3. Invite someone who might hesitate

   Maybe they don’t cycle or walk much—but that’s precisely why the invitation matters. One pedal forward or one step on the trail can change everything.

   
   

Ready to Ride or Walk With Us?

If Chris Hall’s journey reminds us anything, it’s that movement builds connection. Whether you’ve got two wheels or just your own two feet, we’d love to walk it with you.

Ready to join us for our next event?

The path’s set—your own pace, your own rhythm, no ego's. We’re here, waiting with space for you to arrive.—

Alan R. Stokes, Director, MoMENtumConnection. Action. Belonging.

About the Author

Alan R. Stokes, a qualified counsellor and founder of MoMENtum, has more than 15 years’ experience supporting men’s wellbeing—from construction sites to counselling rooms. MoMENtum reflects his belief that movement is where connection heals.