Masood Nawaz Malik, UK
In a virtual mulaqat with Majlis Ansarullah Canada in May 2024, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his helper, emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for new cyclists. Speaking about a recent cycling expedition to Pedro Abad, Spain, Huzooraa shared how cycling serves as a powerful tool for both personal health and spreading the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat. His words were a call to action, urging the organisation of events that support and nurture both novice and experienced cyclists. Huzoor said:
“[…] Just recently 50 cyclists went from the United Kingdom to Spain, other cyclists from around the world joined them as well, and this became a means of preaching for them. They travelled 250 to 300 kilometres. You should have a separate event similar to this one. Keep those who you want to encourage separate, and organise a separate event for experienced cyclists […]” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BvOzrBHF20)
This statement underscored the need for initiatives that allow new cyclists, especially those unfamiliar with the sport, to experience its benefits. Inspired by Huzoor’s guidance, the National Ansar Ijtema 2024 brought this vision to life, creating a unique event that united cycling with community spirit.
Cycling as a pillar of social engagement: Majlis Ansarullah Constitution
Cycling within Majlis Ansarullah is deeply embedded in the organisation’s values. The Majlis Ansarullah Constitution particularly points 130 and 131, underscores cycling as a tool for personal well-being and social service.
- Point 130: “Naib Sadr Saf Dom shall see that members of Saf Dom own bicycles and promote cycling amongst them.”
- Point 131: “Naib Sadr Saf Dom shall see that maximum number of members of Saf Dom participate in the programme of cycling with the purpose of meeting the people and doing social service.”
This constitutional focus highlights how cycling not only promotes health and spiritual well-being, as stressed by Huzooraa, but also fosters community engagement. At the National Ansar Ijtema 2024, this guidance was reflected through the cafe and workshops, where cycling was promoted as a means of bringing people together.
By adhering to these principles, members of Majlis Ansarullah are reminded that cycling serves as a vehicle for both personal improvement and fulfilling their communal responsibilities. This aligns perfectly with Huzoor’s vision of using cycling as a means of service, unity, and spiritual growth.
A holistic vision for cycling in Majlis Ansarullah
In May 2024, following the UK cycling team’s trip to Pedro Abad, Huzur Aqdas (may Allah be his helper) emphasised the deeper purpose behind these cycling endeavours. He highlighted that while cycling nurtures physical health, it also serves as a unique opportunity to spread the message of Islam. Reflecting on the efforts of the cyclists, Huzur said, “…The UK cyclists also distributed literature and spread the message of Islam. Other cyclists from Japan and other parts of the world were also touring with them…”
Huzur’s reminder emphasized that these rides go beyond physical well-being, fulfilling a higher spiritual purpose. Guided by his instructions, the cycling team has consistently made Tabligh (preaching) a core element of every event. These rides are not just about endurance but also about outreach, as cyclists engage with local residents and fellow riders, all while wearing jerseys with the message “Love for All, Hatred for None.” Each ride becomes both a physically rewarding and spiritually meaningful experience, offering opportunities to spread the true teachings of Islam.
Majlis Ansarullah UK wholeheartedly embraced this mission by organizing outreach events in Valencia 2023, Pedro Abad 2024, and most recently, a local ride in Waverley. They promoted these efforts on social media and encouraged Ansar members to actively engage with the public. The “Ride for Peace” event, for example, became far more than just a cycling tour—it was a meaningful opportunity to foster relationships built on mutual respect and understanding, turning each ride into a platform for promoting peace and unity.
These efforts demonstrate how cycling, paired with a clear mission, can have a profound impact. It fosters physical health, strengthens community bonds, and serves as a powerful platform for spreading the message of Islam, allowing cyclists to make meaningful connections and leave lasting impressions.
The initiatives seen at the National Ansar Ijtema 2024, such as the cycling cafe, workshops, and community engagement, demonstrate the power of Huzoor’s guidance and the constitutional principles that shape Majlis Ansarullah’s cycling programs. These events were not just about promoting fitness but were deeply tied to the spiritual and social objectives outlined in the constitution. Cycling, framed through points 130 and 131, remains a key element of personal and communal well-being.
From the ease of starting with just a bike and helmet to the stories of resilience during long-distance rides, the message is clear: cycling is a pathway to holistic improvement. It strengthens the body, fortifies the mind, uplifts the spirit, and fosters meaningful connections within the community.
The cycling cafe at National Ansar Ijtema 2024: A platform for new riders
The cycling cafe at the National Ansar Ijtema 2024 was created to introduce cycling to those new to or hesitant about the sport. It offered an immersive experience, showcasing group rides since 2021, and was not just a display of bikes and accessories but a celebration of cycling’s camaraderie and adventure, both locally and internationally.
The exhibition featured a range of bikes, tools, and accessories, emphasising the accessibility of cycling. With an interactive Zwift setup, participants could simulate outdoor rides, while an exercise bike provided a hands-on experience, showing how easy it is to start with just a bike and helmet.
A key highlight was the dedicated sitting area, where attendees could relax, engage, and seek guidance from experienced cyclists. This initiative aligned with point 131 of the Ansar Constitution, which stresses maximum participation in the cycling programme to encourage meeting people. The cafe became a hub of knowledge and inspiration, offering valuable advice on choosing the right bike and planning manageable local rides.
The atmosphere encouraged new cyclists to take their first steps, whether through advice on purchases, tips for planning trips, or sharing personal stories. The ultimate aim was to build confidence in new riders, helping them progress from local rides to larger group expeditions, such as the one to Pedro Abad mentioned by Huzooraa.
Cycling as a path to well-being and service
The fact that cycling requires nothing more than a bike and helmet was reinforced at the exhibition, where simplicity was emphasised. This dispelled the notion that cycling required specialised gear or knowledge, making it clear that anyone could participate.
In a virtual meeting with Majlis Ansarullah Switzerland in June 2021, Huzooraa highlighted the numerous benefits of cycling, particularly for members of Ansarullah. He stressed that cycling not only keeps members physically active but also enhances mental well-being, giving them the strength to better serve the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. This connection between personal well-being and the broader mission of service demonstrated how physical fitness and spiritual growth complement each other. (www.pressahmadiyya.com/press-releases/2021/06/majlis-ansarullah-switzerland-have-honour-of-a-virtual-meeting-with-world-head-of-ahmadiyya-muslim-community/)
Workshops at the National Ansar Ijtema 2024: Connecting cycling to health and faith
Two workshops at the Ijtema further connected cycling to health and spirituality. The first workshop, titled “Cycling Without Age”, explored cycling from three key perspectives: physicality, mentality, and most importantly, spirituality. The discussion centred on the concept of maintaining good health over time and how this longevity can enhance one’s spiritual journey. The core message was simple yet profound: Every physical action we take has a direct and significant impact on our spiritual state.
The Promised Messiahas states in the Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam that, “[…] physical conditions certainly affect spiritual conditions […]” (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam [1996], p. 4)
By engaging in regular physical activities like cycling, members were reminded that they were not only improving their physical and mental health, but also nurturing their spiritual growth. This holistic approach reinforced the idea that cycling can be a means to achieve a balanced, fulfilled life, aligning perfectly with Huzoor’s vision.
The second workshop focused on the “Scotland to Masjid Mubarak Ride”: a six-day, 600-mile journey filled with resilience, courage and faith. The participants in this workshop shared the highlights of this demanding ride, emphasising that despite being experienced cyclists, they were far from fully prepared for the immense challenges that such long-distance rides present. Yet, what made these difficult journeys achievable was not merely physical training or experience, but rather the prayers of our beloved Huzoor and the power of durood (sending blessings upon the Holy Prophetsa).
Participants recounted how the prayers and guidance of Huzooraa became their true source of strength, carrying them through each day of the gruelling ride. The workshop was a moving testament to the importance of faith, and how it can empower individuals to overcome challenges far beyond what they believe themselves capable of achieving.
A continuing legacy
Built upon Huzoor’s blessed guidance, these cycling initiatives are more than events, they are ongoing journeys of personal and spiritual growth. Huzoor’s vision of nurturing both inexperienced and seasoned cyclists has sparked a movement within Majlis Ansarullah, encouraging members to embrace cycling as a means of improving health, uplifting mental well-being, and serving the cause of Islam Ahmadiyyat.
As future rides and events are planned, the lessons from all previous home and international journey and the cycling cafe at National Ansar Ijtema 2024 will continue to guide Ansarullah members in their commitment to fitness, fellowship and faith. With each pedal forward, they fulfil the wishes of their beloved Huzooraa, finding new physical and spiritual strength.