The Big Lap was started in 2023 by our Occupational Therapist, Titus Chin. This was a way to track the progress of kilometres cycled by the elders in the gym. What began as a small initiative of metaphorically cycling around Australia soon grew into something far larger than anticipated, attracting a significant following. Its success lies in its ability to connect with people, offering a tangible measure of progress and improvement for elders while also encouraging a sense of community and motivation. What was once a small, personal project has now become a movement that inspires and engages our elders and staff at Prins Willem Alexander Lodge.

Every kilometre cycled is carefully recorded on the whiteboard, serving as a constant reminder of the incredible progress made. This initiative has now grown to such a demand that three bikes are needed to accommodate all the elders eager to take part in the challenge.

This milestone is not just a number it represents perseverance, dedication, and the collective spirit of everyone involved. With every pedal, they prove that no goal is too far to reach when we support each other.

On Wednesday the 2nd of April we successfully completed “the big lap. Yvonne Griffith, one of our cherished elders, who has been cycling with us since the very beginning  had the honour of cycling the final kilometre of this incredible journey. This is a huge achievement by all the elders at Prins Willem Alexander Lodge – a moment of pride and celebration for everyone involved!

The next “big lap” has begun and our challenge is to cycle the circumference of the Earth which is 40074km. All the elders and staff are excited to achieve this next goal!

Here’s what our elders had to say:

“The challenge makes me work a bit harder and motivates me to keep going”- Yvonne G

“I find the big lap very encouraging and it gives me something to aim for”- Jill B

“The big lap gives me a target to aim for” -Michael F

“It’s a great idea which makes me feel fitter and better about myself”- Ian B