Indoor Cycling Transforms Life of Cyclist Hit by 50mph Car

In a remarkable tale of resilience and transformation, Melissa Power, a 39-year-old master trainer, has shared her journey from a near-fatal cycling accident to becoming a leading advocate for indoor cycling. Power, who resides in North London, was struck by a car traveling at approximately 50 miles per hour while cycling on a dual carriageway in Manchester in December 2008. This incident left her with catastrophic injuries, including a broken leg and shattered wrist, and resulted in a lengthy and painful recovery process.

Initially, Power faced significant psychological challenges following the accident, grappling with fear and anxiety that prevented her from leaving her home for nearly a year. She gained considerable weight during this period and believed she would never cycle again. However, in 2010, she discovered a passion for indoor cycling, which not only aided her physical recovery but also catalyzed a complete career shift.

According to Power, "I didn’t think I would get on a bicycle again, which is why I switched to indoor cycling. I missed the cycling, but it probably took me close to a year to start to feel like I could walk again, like I had the confidence to get back out there." Her newfound dedication to fitness led her to lose approximately four stone and ultimately pursue a career in indoor cycling instruction.

By 2018, Power had founded The MPowered Training Academy, where she has certified over 800 indoor cycling instructors. She opened a dedicated indoor cycling studio named Cadence Indoor Cycling in 2023, aiming to make cycling accessible to all. Power describes indoor cycling as the safest form of exercise, countering misconceptions that may deter potential participants.

Power's story highlights the often-overlooked mental health benefits of physical activity. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a clinical psychologist at the University of Manchester, notes that engaging in physical exercise can significantly improve mental health outcomes, particularly for individuals who have faced trauma. "Exercise, especially in a group setting, fosters social connections and can alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety," she explains.

Despite her positive transformation, Power still faces challenges stemming from her accident. She has attempted to cycle outdoors again but finds herself unable to descend hills due to lingering fears. Nonetheless, she remains committed to her mission of promoting indoor cycling, emphasizing that it can provide a supportive and empowering environment for individuals of all ages and abilities.

As she prepares to launch her YouTube channel to broaden the accessibility of her classes, Power reflects on her journey: "It’s bonkers that the thing that totally destroyed me, the accident, ended up becoming my saviour." Her story serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience and the potential for recovery through dedication and community support.

For more information about Melissa Power and her initiatives, visit her websites at melissapower.co.uk or cadenceindoorcycling.co.uk, or follow her on Instagram @m.powered.