The Grief Cycle: Investigating the Influence of Cycling on Grief Outcomes in Individuals Who Have Experienced a Bereavement

Background: There is a lack of research that investigates the influence of physical activity on grief outcomes. This research aimed to examine the influence of cycling on grief outcomes in individuals who have experienced a bereavement.

Method: Semi-structured interviews with 14 participants ( = 8 males; age = 47.5 years) who engaged in cycling behaviour and had experienced a bereavement. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to guide analysis.

Results: Four key themes were generated, providing: an (1) within the helping to provide support, alongside the (3) which led to following bereavement.

Conclusion: Evidence suggests that cycling can provide an opportunity for a physical challenge, an immense connection to nature and a community of support from likeminded individuals. These therapeutic qualities of cycling should be considered for future interventions and add novel findings to the area of cycling, bereavement and grief.