How Cycling Helps a Software Engineer Unwind and Find Balance
March 07, 2025
We’re always inspired by the passions that drive our team members, both in their work and personal lives. For Burak, one of our talented software engineers, that passion is cycling. Each morning, he finds clarity and calm on his rides, using the time to recharge and get ready for the day ahead. Today we’re excited to share his story, a look at how cycling helps him stay balanced, unwind, and stay energized.
The Beginning of His Journey
Burak's passion for cycling began in childhood, but life took him down a different path, and for many years, he didn’t even own a bike. That all changed when he finally bought one and set a bold challenge for himself: to ride to Anadolu Feneri, a destination he had only ever reached by car.
“My first long-distance ride was over 100 kilometers. I was inexperienced, and my bike wasn’t built for such demanding trips, but I wanted to push my limits,” he recalls. “It was tough, but when I completed it, I felt an incredible sense of freedom. That ride changed everything for me. Since then, cycling has become a part of my life."
The Best of Istanbul on Two Wheels
For Burak, biking in Istanbul is an adventure. The experience is completely different depending on the time of day.
“In the mornings, I can escape the hustle and bustle of the city within just a few kilometers. Riding along the Bosphorus or through the lush, green forests is incredibly peaceful. The crisp morning air clears my head and gives me a sense of freedom before the day begins. It’s my favorite way to wake up and feel energized for work.”
Evening rides, on the other hand, are a whole different challenge.
“Riding in the evening feels like stepping into an extreme sport,” Burak laughs. “The traffic can be chaotic, and you have to stay completely focused. Slipping between cars, reacting to sudden changes, and constantly adjusting your path—it’s intense, but that intensity is what makes it so thrilling. It’s a kind of organized chaos that keeps you on your toes.”
For Burak, biking in Istanbul isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about experiencing the city in a way few others do. Whether navigating serene waterfronts or weaving through bustling streets, every ride brings a new layer of excitement and connection to this incredible city.
Biking and Coding: More Similar Than You’d Think
At first, cycling and coding might seem unrelated, but Burak sees many similarities between the two.
"Both demand patience, consistency, and strategy," he explains. "Tackling a steep climb is a lot like debugging a stubborn issue—it’s frustrating in the moment, but the reward of reaching the top, or solving the problem, makes it all worthwhile. Long rides also remind me of complex projects. Push too hard, too soon, and you risk burning out. But with careful pacing, thoughtful planning, and steady effort, you’ll cross the finish line."
Like coding, cycling is a skill honed over time. It requires constant adjustments, problem-solving, and determination—qualities that lead to growth and success in both pursuits.
A Typical Ride Before Work
Burak usually rides early in the morning, before the city wakes up.
"Sunrise is the best time to ride. The roads are empty, the Bosphorus looks incredible, and I can enjoy the silence before the city comes to life. On weekdays, I stick to short, familiar routes—just enough for a solid workout and a clear mind. On weekends, I take on longer rides, often heading into the forests to focus on speed, elevation, and simply enjoying the journey. Sometimes I ride solo, other times I join a group. It all depends on my mood and the weather."
During winter, outdoor rides become less frequent.
"I have an indoor setup, but it doesn’t give me the same feeling. Riding outside is completely different—it’s not just about exercise, it’s about the experience of being on the road."
Burak rides three to four times a week, balancing it with time for family, friends, and other hobbies.
Pushing Toward a New Goal
After facing various challenges in previous years, he is more motivated than ever to get back on track.
"This year, my main goal is to hit 5,000 km. It’s a personal milestone I’m eager to reach, and I’m excited for the journey ahead."
We love seeing our team members pursue their passions—whether it’s writing clean code or pushing their limits outside of work. A great team is built on people who bring curiosity, energy, and a drive to grow in every aspect of life.
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