> Are we talking about affording in time?
Mostly weather. There are very few locations where “bike every day” is a reasonable statement. Consistency is key.
That’s a matter of clothing and determination IMHO :)
But sure, I get it. Personally I can’t keep up gym habits because the boredom is just overwhelming. I find other forms of exercise easier to stick at. Each to their own.
There are many kinds of gyms and I’m sure you’d like some. But since we’re talking loneliness here I’d particularly recommend to check out (and hang for a while):
- bouldering gyms - circus - bodybuilding gyms - dancing studio - aikido/wrestling - boxing
If your idea of gym is 24Fitness, then yeah, it is very boring.
If the people in the Netherlands can do it - where it's flat, windy, and rainy most of the time - then most people in the US can also do it. If it's too hot, go in the mornings.
Re:Ask HN: How to Be Alone?
by lotsofpulp on Monday March 09, 2026 @11:05AM
(#47310075)
Does the Netherlands have huge roads where everyone travels at 50mph+ in huge pickup trucks and SUVs with high hoods and drivers looking at their phones while driving?
Because that is what the majority of Americans deal with. Not to mention a significant majority deal with colder and or hotter and more humid weather. Obviously, it can be done, but the Netherlands is not the standard for low quality bicycling environments.
Err....
Are we talking about affording in time? Because from where I'm sitting once you have a bike it's free, where gyms need an ongoing subscription.
Plus if someone (like OP) works from home, getting on their bike is likely easier and lower-friction.