I took the handbike out today.
And man… it felt good.

There’s something about moving under your own power — even if it’s by arm instead of leg — that just flips a switch in your brain. For a few moments, you're not “recovering” or “adjusting” or “managing mobility.”
You're just riding.

The air was perfect.

Just cool enough to feel refreshing.
Just warm enough to feel alive.
And the sound of the tires spinning, the rhythm of my arms pushing forward — it reminded me of what independence actually feels like.

This isn’t about physical therapy.
This is about freedom.
Movement. Momentum.
Something I crave in a world that often feels like it’s constantly slowing me down.

And here’s the part that really made it special:

Dad followed me the whole way.

He didn’t hover.
Didn’t coach.
Didn’t interrupt my rhythm.

He just followed, on his bike, quietly making sure I was okay.
And honestly? That meant everything.

Because I didn’t feel watched.
I felt protected.
Like I had a safety net that wasn’t smothering — just there, humming along behind me.

We didn’t talk much during the ride.

Just the occasional wave, or nod.
But every time I glanced back and saw his bike behind me, I felt safer.
Stronger.
Freer to go further.

Riding that handbike is something I didn’t know I needed.

It’s fun.
It’s freeing.
It’s one of the few things lately that lets me just exist in the moment — without overthinking, without explaining, without adapting.

Just me. Moving. Breathing. Flying on the ground.

Thinking About Getting a Handbike?

I was lucky enough to borrow my handbike — which made it possible for me to get outside, move around, and feel some much-needed freedom without worrying about the price tag.

But I won’t lie… if you’re thinking about buying one, they’re not cheap.

Depending on the model, a decent-quality handbike can cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $5,000. That can be a big barrier, especially if you’re dealing with other medical costs.

Still, if you’ve got the means — or you're looking into funding options or adaptive sports programs — it’s one of the best pieces of equipment I’ve ever used.