Cycling can have many benefits, with two of the most notable benefits being a positive effect on physical and mental health.

by Madison Naves | WeINSPIRE Journalist 

BIRMINGHAM, AL. -- Two wheels cut through the humid Maryland air as Matt Onojafe whizzes past another mile marker. He knows the trails well. As he pushes the pedals beneath his feet, they guide him to take in the beauty of his community. He remembers why he cycles. The people he passes barely catch a glimpse of him but still, they know it must be Matt, the kind bike shop owner. He tries to zip through the trails daily to ease stress either morning or night because, from 11 am - 6 pm, Onojafe is the proud business owner of Jafe Cycling.

Onojafe has been cycling for seven years. He opened Jafe Cycling to share his love of cycling. He has brought hundreds of people together for events and facilitated many first bike rides. 

“My theory is if all of us focus on what makes us passionate, your ability to impact your community increases; it makes us so much more,” said Onojafe.

Onojafe established Jafe Cycling in June 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he saw a need in his community for ways to deal with stress and physical strain. His shop is located in Capitol Heights, Maryland, and has become a staple in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) community. The company hosts a cycling club (The Trails DMV), cycling events, riding tutorials, bike repairs, sales, and fundraising for local nonprofits. Onojafe has strategized multiple ways to lend his skills and support through entrepreneurship.

“During the pandemic, a lot of people lost their jobs; I saw how it was affecting the African-American community,” said Onojafe. “With my background being in engineering, I figured, ‘Is there a way I can contribute?’ ‘How can I help other individuals stay active while utilizing my technical skills?’”

He began by offering bike tune-ups and repairs before launching Jafe Cycling. His business has encouraged others to get out, become more physically active, and connect with other cycling enthusiasts. They do this by organizing annual bike rides during their DMV Trails Tour. Cyclists are encouraged to explore the fantastic views of the DMV area and take charge of their physical health by biking between 15 to 100 miles. During the DMV trails tour, cyclists raise donations for local charities like The Awana Club. 

Cycling can have many benefits, with two of the most notable benefits being a positive effect on physical and mental health. These two aspects are the main focus because of the impact COVID-19 has had on individuals. Researchers at Louisiana State University’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center conducted a survey in 2020 that reported 75% of individuals were concerned or stressed about their health, well-being, or financial stability. 

The survey also included that 79% of individuals reported weight gain from stress eating and changed habits like inadequate sleep, increased substance use, and leisure lifestyles. With cycling providing positive cardiovascular effects and mindfulness, among other benefits, there is a clear need for businesses like Jafe Cycling. 

Onojafe’s compassion for his community is evident during one-on-one sessions where he teaches people how to reap the enriching benefits cycling offers. He also is working to offer more of these teaching sessions through Jafe Cycling’s new Pedal Passion Program. Through this program, Onojafe will reach out to schools and nonprofit organizations to teach children how to cycle while capturing memorable opportunities. He says that these opportunities are possible because of the support he receives from his community and staff.

“I think once you establish a decent support circle, that really keeps you focused and gives you reinforcement,” said Onojafe. “I can always rely on the team to really push me through.”

Onojafe’s ability to push onward shines through his excellent cycling and pride in making a difference in others’ lives. His personableness and dependable reputation have created new cycling enthusiasts who are happy to ride alongside him in the bike lane. He hopes to continue impacting the lives of others with his passion as everyone finds new ways to heal after a stressful year.

“At the very core of it, I enjoy cycling; so if you want to talk bikes, you can talk bikes with the owner of Jafe Cycling,” said Onojafe. 

To help support Jafe Cycling or schedule bike services in the DMV area, head to thetrailsdmv.com. Also, consider joining a supportive bike club to make a positive impact on your health and wellness.