Noteboom The Law Firm

Therapists Promote Cycling as Recreation for U.S. Veterans

Recreation therapist Melissa Puckett and readjustment counselor Gil Ramirez are the staff members at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System’s trauma recovery programs that have launched the Ride 2 Recovery (R2R) initiative to get U.S. military veterans out and moving again.

The R2R program brings together both disabled and healthy veterans in various cycling activities designed to promote good health and help with treatment of some of the common disabilities service members face. From daily cycling regimens, as therapy to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, to the 6-day, 450-mile R2R California Challenge event, the participants are using bicycles as a means of therapy and self improvement.

Furthermore, many veterans report increased physical stamina, better moods, reduction in depression and anxiety, and an overall better feeling when they began a cycling program.

The R2R California Challenge was first held last year with 35 veterans participating to help raise money to support other outdoor cycling programs for veterans across the U.S. The team logged over 10,000 hours on their bikes in preparation for the ride.

There are specialized bicycles available to amputees and various levels of difficulty to take up for a regular cycling program – meaning this could be an option for nearly any veteran looking to better their physical and mental health.