Cycling a Way to Stay Active and Social at San Antonio Retirement Community

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS - You might expect that as a retiree, Mike Fox travels a lot. But what you might not expect is that he travels 50 miles a week on a bicycle. Like other cyclists, members of Air Force Village's Wheelman's Club sport the jerseys, special shoes and other equipment necessary to ride a bike comfortably for many miles. These retired military officers, who range in age from 70 to 90, are out on the country roads outside of San Antonio twice a week year-round, taking in the scenery of the surrounding Hill Country near the retirement community's campus.

The club was formed six years ago, with Fox serving as president. The group of up to nine riders meets on Mondays for a 20-mile ride, followed by a 30-mile ride on Wednesdays.

"I love the exercise and social aspect of good company during our breakfast rides to restaurants 10 to 15 miles away," said Fox.

Cycling is not a new hobby for Fox, as he biked to work whenever possible during his 30-year Air Force career. He continued cycling for 10 years after retirement, but felt limited because of the narrow streets and heavy traffic near his San Antonio home.

"One of the major enticements to move to Air Force Village was the bike room and the country lanes south of the village," said Fox. "Not only does it feel safer on the country roads, but the scenery is gorgeous."

Ida Hardy is the director of Life Enrichment at Air Force Village, and sometimes rides with the Wheelman Club.

"Our residents in this group are very independent and self-sufficient. They welcome my participation, but they like to run things themselves," said Hardy.

"The Wheelmen are a perfect example of our Life Enrichment philosophy, which in a nutshell says that the way we age is dependent upon several things - genetics, circumstances and lifestyle choices. Science tells us that lifestyle choices play a significant role in our health throughout life, and that is where Life Enrichment comes in."

In addition to the Wheelman's Club, Air Force Village has a number of social, recreational, intellectual and physical activities that support the Life Enrichment philosophy. Pilates and yoga classes, computer classes and lectures, trips to downtown San Antonio and projects in the wood hobby shop are just a few examples of many social activities found at the retirement community.

"Cycling has been a part of my life for more than 40 years," said Fox. "I'm glad to be able to share that passion with my neighbors, and even make new friends through the sport."