This chapter represents my journey from the childhood joys of riding a bicycle to the realization and passion for the importance of cycling. It’s a story of ups and downs, memories and realizations, childhood and adulthood, past and future. This post will also discuss the problems encountered during my study and the solutions I discovered, ending with an outline and summary of the study.
Background
The inspiration for this theme goes back to my childhood and my brothers. As the only sister, I spent most of my childhood playing with them. We used to ride bicycles around town a lot, which naturally became one of my favorite activities. Unlike most children who eventually transition from bicycles to bikes or cars, my fondness for cycling grew as I got older and wiser.
A Ride Through Memories
Cycling has always been more than just a hobby for me. From the moment I first learned to ride, my bicycle symbolized freedom and adventure. Those early rides with my brothers filled my days with joy and excitement. As I grew older, cycling evolved from a simple pastime into a crucial part of my daily routine.
Though I don’t have many photos from that time, I’ve recreated my experiences through a series of storyboards that capture the essence of my childhood cycling journey. Each of these scenes represents a key moment in my journey, reflecting how cycling grew from a playful pastime into a deeper passion that would later inspire my thesis.
The Realization and Passion
As I transitioned from childhood to adulthood, I began to understand the broader implications of cycling. It became evident that cycling was much more than just riding a bicycle; it was a way to reduce stress and counter depression, a method to kill time, make friends, and train my body and stamina. In short, it was a path to fitness—both of mind and body.
The Ups and Downs
My journey with cycling hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing school, personal life, and my passion for cycling sometimes seemed overwhelming. Injuries, setbacks, and moments of doubt tested my commitment. However, each hurdle reinforced my determination to keep going. Cycling became my refuge, a way to clear my mind and push through obstacles.
Problems and Solutions
The study presented its own set of challenges. Researching the perfect materials for leather accessories and footwear that complement cycling required extensive trial and error. Understanding market trends and consumer preferences also posed difficulties. However, these challenges led to innovative solutions and breakthroughs, shaping the direction of my thesis.
Brief Overview of My Thesis
My thesis, “Ride Your Way to Fitness,” combines my passion for cycling with the art of creating leather accessories and footwear. The objective is to design products that enhance the cycling experience while promoting fitness. By exploring various materials and textures, I aim to create durable, stylish, and functional accessories that cater to cyclists’ needs.
Outline and Summary of the Study
This blog series will continue to delve into the various aspects of my thesis, from research and mood boards to technical drawings and final prototypes. Each post will offer insights into the process, the lessons learned, and the creative journey that brought “Ride Your Way to Fitness” to life.
Stay tuned as we explore the intersections of cycling, design, and craftsmanship in the upcoming posts.
