Buddy's Story: Pedaling Around the World

After seeing his family suffer from poor health, Buddy Rainwater decided it was time for a change.

In 1983, he purchased a Schwinn^® Airdyne^® bike that inspired him to do the impossible: bike "around the world." At the age of 69, Buddy has been riding the same bike for the past 32 years and 24,901 miles — the exact distance it would take to travel the circumference of the Earth.

Learn more about Buddy's amazing journey toward living a healthy life:

Why did you choose a Schwinn as your go-to fitness equipment?

"I chose Schwinn based on the recommendation of my friend who is an orthopedic surgeon. Schwinn also has a reputation of building quality products — and that's what I needed for my training needs."

How has your Schwinn bike helped you reach your fitness goals?

"Before I purchased my Schwinn bike, I was an avid runner — rain or shine. When I discussed my fitness goals with my friend, the orthopedic surgeon, he advised me that over time my knees and joints would become a problem. I decided to purchase the Schwinn^® Airdyne^® bike and started riding it in 1983. It quickly became a part of my home workout plan."

What inspired you to tackle such a long ride? How did you keep yourself motivated?

"My family has a history of heart disease. My dad died when he was 39 from a heart attack, and my sister died at 53. I was determined to beat the odds, and the best way to do that was to stay fit and eat right. Ever since I bought the bike, I would ride it three days a week for seven miles. After that, I would work on a weight machine for an hour and a half. This workout session became my routine, and I stuck to it."

What other healthy changes have you made in your daily life?

"In my daily life, I eat healthy and avoid junk foods and fried food. It's important to not give in to the lure of unhealthy foods."

What does fitness mean to you?

"Staying fit makes you feel better, mentally and physically. It also boosts your self-esteem."

What tips could you offer folks to get started on their fitness goals?

"I have been on a self-directed fitness program for 50 years. The best advice that I can give someone who is considering a fitness program is to stick with it and don't give up. I like equipment that allows you to workout at home, watch TV while you workout. You have no dues to pay to a gym, and if you miss a scheduled session you can make it up on your time."

Since Buddy's trip "around the world," he has retired his bike and plans to replace it with a BowFlex Max Trainer^®.

Has a Schwinn® product ever changed your life? Share your story with us in the comments below.