From the workshop to the open road, 9 Training Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers are proving that teamwork is the ultimate engine for resilience. The NAAFI Fund were proud to support their ‘Cycling Together’ project recently with a new £16,500 NAAFI Fund grant, helping the Aldershot-based service personnel stay active.
By introducing a fleet of high-quality road bikes to the unit, 9 TS Bn REME are creating fresh opportunities for fitness, recreation, and most importantly social connection.
Cycling is a powerhouse for health, offering a unique blend of benefits that fit perfectly into military life:
- Cardiovascular Health: A low-impact, high-reward way to keep the heart pumping.
- Mental Resilience: There’s nothing quite like the open road to reduce stress and clear the mind.
- Unit Cohesion: Shared miles lead to shared smiles. Group rides foster a sense of belonging and morale that stays with the team long after the helmets come off.
A project this big needs all the moving parts to click and we would like to extend a massive thank you to Pedal Heaven, who stepped up to support the troops with a 14% discount. Their generosity saved the project over £2,700, ensuring the grant went even further to provide top-tier equipment for our SP.
Lt Col Gentry, Commanding Officer 9 REME, shared his thoughts on the project’s success:
“Since the implementation of the Cycling Together Project, 9 REME has experienced significant improvements in the health, wellbeing, and cohesion of its Service Personnel. The introduction of road bikes has provided a versatile and accessible means of physical training, complementing existing fitness programs and reducing reliance on gym-based activities.”
Whether it’s a gruelling training climb or a weekend social ride, we are incredibly proud to support 9 TS Bn REME as they pedal toward a healthier, more connected future.
The NAAFI Fund exists to support projects that enhance welfare and improve quality of life for Service Personnel and their families. If your unit has an inspiring idea, we want to hear from you!
Get in touch to find out how the NAAFI Fund can help bring your vision to life. Contact us for more information on how to apply at funding@naafi.co.uk.
