What Crawfish, Zydeco Music, and a 200-Mile Bike Ride Taught Me About Health
Last week, this Wichita physical therapist pedaled through the heart of Louisiana on a four-day adventure known as Cycle Zydeco—200 miles of bike riding, crawfish cracking, and nonstop Zydeco music.
The ride wound through beautiful bayous, moss-covered oaks, and towns pulsing with culture and rhythm. At each stop, live bands played the accordion-driven sounds of Zydeco, while we danced, refueled, and laughed with strangers who quickly became friends.
One evening, after a long ride under the sun, we gathered for a community crawfish boil. The spicy aroma filled the air, and music spilled out of every corner. My legs were tired, but my spirit was buzzing—this wasn’t just a bike ride, it was a celebration of movement, music, and life.
My Big Takeaway
What struck me most wasn’t the distance or the scenery (though both were incredible). It was who showed up to ride: people of all ages, shapes, sizes, and fitness levels.
There were families with kids in tow, retirees pushing pedals with steady determination, and even folks managing physical limitations—some with knee braces, others recovering from surgeries, and a few who told me they trained for months just to be strong enough to finish a single day. And even quite a few people pedaling e-bikes so they could complete the distance.
It was humbling. And inspiring.
They weren’t there to win—they were there to participate, to challenge themselves, and to live fully. As a physical therapist and movement specialist, I often work with people who wonder if they’re “too old,” “too out of shape,” or “too injured” to do the things they once loved. This ride reminded me (and them, I hope) that it’s never too late to reclaim movement and joy.
How about you? What big goal do you want to achieve?
If this story resonates with you—if you have goals, adventures, or even just everyday activities you’d like to feel better doing—let’s talk. Helping people get back in motion is what we do best.
Spring is here. Let’s make it your season to move.
To your health and happiness,
Cody Barnett PT
P.S. I’ve still got some Louisiana spice in my step—come by and I’ll tell you more about the trip (and maybe share my new favorite Zydeco playlist)!
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