Get Set, Cycle

Anchor’s Get Set, Cycle challenge encourages residents and colleagues to cycle this summer. We're eager for everyone to join them so we’re setting the nation a challenge...to cycle 24,901 miles, the circumference of the Earth!

For many, the pandemic has meant a significant change in lifestyle. We’ve spent more time at home, increasing our awareness of the consequences of physical inactivity. As a nation we talked about, and embraced, fitness more than ever before. We’re also more aware of the importance of community and connecting with those around us. 

Now with the country gradually reopening and with various restrictions lifted, we want to make sure these good habits remain, and that we at Anchor continue to provide residents with fun and engaging activities, that benefit their mental and physical wellbeing.

That’s why, this summer, we’re encouraging everyone to take part in Get, Set Cycle to keep healthy, maintain mental wellbeing, and connect with others. The challenge aims to unite the nation with Anchor’s residents in a shared love of cycling, with a collective goal. Originally we aimed to cycle 2,102  miles – the same distance as the Tour De France – but having quickly smashed this target, and inspired by our success, an ambitious new target has been set – to cycle 24,901 miles, the circumference of the Earth!

Get Set, Cycle was inspired by how Anchor’s residents embraced physical activity during the pandemic. During lockdown, Anchor has ramped up use of Memoride – a virtual cycling platform for older people, which was also noted as a key factor in winning Large Care Provider of the Year at the LaingBuisson Awards this year. The technology, which uses Google Maps to project images of towns or paths onto a screen, allowed residents to stay active while taking virtual trips to places familiar from their past. With ongoing restrictions, the technology had an incredibly positive impact on keeping people engaged and connected. 

Residents and colleagues will be cycling as many miles as possible, physically or virtually, by using this technology. And we want everyone to join them - the benefits of cycling have been felt across the nation and we're calling on you to keep up your good fitness habits and help us reach our collective goal.

Getting involved

Show your support for #GetSetCycle by putting in your own miles (either by walking, running or cycling), sharing those miles on Facebook and Twitter, along with a photo of the wonderful locations your journeys take you. We’re looking for the very best scenic views from across the country – and if you and your bike are in it, well that’s an added bonus! Do make sure to wear a helmet and follow cycling safety guidelines, and of course, don’t forget to hashtag #GetSetCycle too!