5 Years Without Alcohol And My Life is Way Better 

I know that most of you come for the bikes, running, and adventure videos, but I really appreciate that I can share different sides of my life's story with you. Thank you for everything! #TeamDuzer

As my wife says “you never regret not having a drink” we’ve both been sober for 2years and loving life together again

2.5 years sober.... loving life like never before.

You look incredible. You look like the super-healthy dad that does ultra-marathons for fun

I quit alcohol After 3 years of depression. It was one of my best décision ever !! It allows me to live free again. It was hard to quit because it was the only way for me to stop thinking and feel light but i was a slave to this. Now my life is wayyy more better i’m so glad

The best question I ever heard in AA is "Are you still having fun?" If its not fun anymore, why do it? I drank every night for years. Sick all the time. I've replaced late night drinking with early morning cycling. I traded parties for sunrises. Life is so much better now that I have sober serenity

Im one year sober at the end of this month. I was a raging alcoholic for many years, blacking out every night, even starting the day with a shot. One year later, im happier and healthier than ive ever been. Making the DECISION that i wasnt going to be a person who drank anymore was the best thing ive ever done. Stay strong brother!!!

Word. 13+ months for me, never look back

30 years sober. Yes the best decision I ever made. Way to go Ryan.

Being sober is amazing!

The best thing I've ever done for my morale was quitting the booze 14 years ago. As Ryan says, there are no downsides whatsoever, only gains.

Been dry now for six and a half years after 45 years of heavy addiction. However, I do truly believe in the "once an alcoholic always an alcoholic" whether you are still active or recovering. The urge to partake still follows me around a little or a lot but the urge has really let up a great deal in the last couple of years and gets a little better every day. Don't ever quit quitting. The joys and benefits of sobriety are never ending.

I’m 5 months in now and still feeling confident, what helped me tremendously was taking cold showers, it strengthened my mental focus to stay sober and also stay on track with 8/16 fasting. I’ve lost 30 pounds without a single drop of sweat!

11 years sober now. I agree- best decision ever.

Being able to party sober is a superpower.

Day 2 sober for me. I have tired to be sober numerous times. I hope this time sticks forever.

I just hit 4 months, I feel so much more present for my friends and loved ones. I admire all of those of you who have multiple years under your belts, thanks for the continued inspiration. Looking forward to a sober life.

the hardest part for me was staying away from certain friends and finding new things to do

I’m at 1.5 months completely sober and I love it. I started for physical goals but have noticed the mental clarity and physical improvements! I don’t see myself drinking again.

Well said! I quit at age 28. Over 30 years later I have no regrets about the decision. When I think about taking a drink I think back at the stupid hurtful things I did under the influence.

I was a weed smoker for 25 years. Quit cold turkey 7 months ago and it was a great decision for me as well. Kudos to you and thanks for sharing Ryan.

Binge drinker from 20 to 40, long story short, i must’ve been dead a long time ago. Started quitting little by little, finally quitted once and for all. I hated hungovers, that was my motivation.

Congratulations Ryan. I will be five years soon, and yes it’s the best decision of my life.

The main reason I've clung to your channel for all these years! Your character stands tall in this crazy world .

I'm a mountain biker, it's my favorite thing to do. Second favorite thing to do is skiing. I'm drunk right now as I have been most nights especially during the pandemic. I want to be able to have milestones like this. I hope to start working on that asap. Thanks for your story.

Just found the channel so I’m late to this. I’m 2.5 years drug/booze free myself. Hearing other people be open about this type of thing always gets me emotional, it’s a weird little fraternity this disease has given us. Anyway super proud of you and congrats on your sobriety.

I just drink once in 3 months, but still affected my thyroid and liver functioning, so I said Bye to it in March 2020. So far No Alcohol. being healthy and riding bikes .

Just about to hit 4 years sober, and yes, it was literally the best decision I've ever made. Unfortunately, I didn't stop before I did some serious permanent damage to my body, but at least I know the damage has stopped. Glad I can still ride my bike!

Agree, Ryan! I've been sober for over 2 yrs and it's the best decision ever. Loveya, man.

I didn't have a problem with alcohol by any metric, but I stopped about sixteen months ago and life is definitely better.

I haven't ever been a heavy drinker, but I have worked in the craft beer industry for almost 6 years, so I've thrown back my share of drinks. Regardless, I also made a decision to stop drinking fairly recently, mostly because I realized that I enjoy the idea of drinking much more than the act of drinking itself. It feels so much better to live a sober life, especially being more present and cognizant. Good on you for recognizing changes you needed to make, and taking the steps to create a brighter path!

One is too many and 1000 isn't enough. Today, I'm 11 years sober. I raced Cat 2 in college back in the early 80s. In 2010, I was a walking train wreck. It was the best decision I ever made. AA saved my life.

I did 3 years sober, got fit, got my head right. Now I've found balance. It's all about balance. I love IPAs.

Ryan I became sober in July 2015,it's given me the best life ever.Want to wish you all the best on your journey.

Same! I just sort of stopped drinking and it wasn’t a big deal. I’m on year two and I don’t really get urges because the memory of the hangover is just far more powerful of a completely miserable state id be in if I decided to have some drinks. If feels great and I really don’t see myself going back, I feel amazing!

For those who need it - go find an AA meeting. More importantly, for those with relatives, friends, or loved ones who need AA, go to an Al-Anon meeting and keep going back.

I quite too a year ago wasn't a struggle i just decided like you to spend my energy to go outdoor instead... i love my morning run and with alcohol i wasn't capable of getting up early and cranked up to go for it so quitting was the only way!!! Thank you for sharing this and i can't wait to watch the great devide series ✌

8/23/1993 I'm with you. Life is better! 👍👍👍

Bikes and burritos lol talking my language now.

Stopped 7 years back & have never, ever regretted it.

14 months into my new sober life, not quite five years yet but I can already see myself making the same video when that day comes - and I'm pretty sure it will

I’m 2 years sober and out stories are very similar! I also found it easy to quit.

Ryan, here's an example of how your energy is so special: after leaving my earlier comment here, I called a friend that reminds me of you and mentioned your video to him... he told me TODAY, Aug 15 is also his sobriety anniversary of 3 years... what an amazing coincidence! I'll forward this video to him!

Hi Ryan I love this youtube channel stay alcohol free I have been sober 1year and 2 month thanks you for encouraging words Stay safe and enjoy 🙏

I'm coming up on 5 years myself, and agree with everything you've said here, Ryan! You don't need to be a chemically-dependent alcoholic to come to the conclusion that alcohol is messing up your relationships, your emotions, and your health. Like a lot of people, I stopped as I entered middle age because I just couldn't take the negative effects anymore. But I wish I'd stopped in my twenties and focused on the important things in life. AA, Recovery Dharma (Buddhist recovery), and even the stopdrinking subreddit are great places to go if you need some companionship in quitting. I swear, life really is better sober (and this is coming from a cranky, introverted, skeptical person).

I had no idea you were in recovery.. CONGRATS!! I've got 11.5yrs. 5 years is about where the real work starts :)

Congratulations Ryan on changing for the better. You are a living example of one of my favorite sayings: DARE TO TRY!! YOU MAY SUCCEED!!

Afternoon Ryan you're August of 15 I may 15th I enjoy watching your show very inspirational wouldn't mind doing a road trip with you I enjoy biking have a great day enjoy

Awesome, I can feel what you are talking about. I quit drinking 2 years ago. Mountaineering and other sports were becoming more and more important in my life. And drinking is the opposite of healthie and fit.

My 5 year is next month. Thank you, God.

Our and me both man! Good on ya! I quite last October and I weighed 195lbs now just riding my bike as much as possible and I'm 165 lbs and do not miss it one second! ✌🏼 thanks for sharing. 😎

Hey Ryan, thank you for your honesty. I'm a new subscriber and at 60 I'm probably old enough to be your dad- "or close to it". I had my last drink of alcohol 8/18/89 at the age of 26 yrs. God willing I'll have 35 years of sobriety this coming August. I'm alive and well today as a result of the gift of sobriety. I have 2 wonderful kids and 6 grandchildren that love and care about me. I probably wouldn't be here if I had continued as I was headed- I'm grateful my friend. I was the clown and entertainer also. I realized in a short while I was having blackouts which really scared me. I thank God I didn't hurt anyone driving in the condition I was in at times. Outdoor activities in my sobriety have helped me tremendously. Nothing better than a good workout or bicycle ride to clear the head and get recentered. It is good to be alive and not run from my own humanity. Thank you again for your story.

It’s 4 years and 5 months for me, had the same problem you had.I had to quit.

I love how many people are mountain bikers here! Thats rad

Kudos Ryan. I quit smoking 19 years ago, drinking - I forget - 15 years ago? Best decisions eVAR. May your life be blessed with purpose, adventure - and clarity.

Thank you for this post. Thank you for your comments...Cheers!

I've had 2.5 years off and then after 2.5 years back on I did another 5 years. I've been drinking again, mostly occasionally but lately too much and I always feel low the day after. I've been thinking about stopping again and this video has helped me make the decision to once again go sober. Love you man 👍

Congrats. I too quit drinking years ago. It also changed my life for the better and was the best decision I ever made. Now if I could just put this iPhone down.

I wasn’t so drunk often, but I quit drinking almost 4 years ago and I agree with you, I’m a better man now in every aspect! And I quit from a day to another just wanting that, like smoking which I quit 6 years ago too! Keep on, I’m going for a ride too 😊👍

Sincerity, honesty-excellence.

Happy birthday! My birthday is tomorrow! Congrats on 5 years. That’s huge.

Great to hear buddy. I was the exact same accept I was a sad drunk. 8 yrs sober for me. Cold turkey was easy for ridding of cigarettes/alcohol.

This is great man. Im on the same path evacuating alcohol from my life. Biking hundreds of miles a week. You are inspirational and truly motivating. Thanks for the vids and speaking your heart 👊

Congrat from a fellow Ryan. One year sober on Christmas Eve past, came naturally and never felt better!

I fell into mountain biking later on in life and suddenly I found this buzz (and awesome community) that mattered more to me than drinking my way through the weekend. I genuinely think I’d have been a functioning alcoholic if I’d not discovered how much I love the trails. I’m now doing a 90 day challenge to not drink at all and am getting more and more sober curious - as life seems way more productive when you don’t drink. Thanks for sharing dude. Really enjoyed watching - keep up the awesome lifestyle!

I am clean and sober 36 years, working on 37-one day at a time. Best decision, EVER! Congrats!

Hey Ryan, I must be a Scottish version of you. Everything you have said I've been there, nearly going out every night clubbing, bring people back to my work place after closing hours, I was seriously wild until just about the same time as yourself gave up drink and started getting back into my fitness again like night half marathon, running, hiking and swimming. I love the feeling of not to worry about hangovers they do suck your life soul energy So yeah I know exactly what you mean You can not beat life. Hope you are well Cpt Ryan and keep on going 🇺🇲❤🤩🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

8 years and change and I like the guy in the mirror

I've been sober a little over two years. I feel exactly the way you do. Once my heart was behind quitting, the motivation was strong. Great message! Thank you!

I am sober 32 years one day at a time drug and alcohol treatment specialist age 64 been there done it great channel

Love this so much! I'm coming up on two years of sobriety this December, I did the same thing spent my 20's and early 30's drinking too much and being done with that is the greatest ever!

CONGRATULATIONS..I just celebrated 33 years August 12th..

I've always said I can't condemn or condone drinking. I quit 15 years ago and now bare witness to those around me that have drinking problems. Way to be a positive influence and witness to those around you!

Getting home and not remembering after how you did it is a nice skill to have.

Congratulations on 5 years! I can relate as I too will celebrate 5 years on 8/28. I agree with you that quitting alcohol was one of the best decisions in my life. Stay strong...love your content! #TeamDuzer #soberwarrior

Sounds WAY to familiar. 9 years here. Well done Ryan and all of the fellow brothers and sisters in sobriety.

Ryan: I need you to make Get Out There t-shirts so I can wear them on T-shirt Tuesdays at the small rural High School I work at. The idea behind T-shirt Tuesdays is to wear a t-shirt that promotes a thing, idea or philosophy you support and would be happy to talk about to others. It's an opportunity for breaking the ice and finding connections with others.

I had two months off alcohol. I am a low consumer. So i will keep on drinking beer and wine during dinner. Scotch and rum to ny cigars.

Congrats Ryan! 5 years is a milestone. I just celebrated 6 yrs in April. This is depth psychology, this is life! “The deeper the sorrow carves into being, the greater the joy’ Kabril Gibran

You're a good dude. Funny enough, today is August 15th and I just came across this video... Congrats on your sobriety. Peace to you.

Thanks for sharing your story and congratulations on the 5 years, I’m just 18 months clean but not looking back now, great channel 👌

Same here mate. 12yrs sober and the best thing I ever did.

I was a smoker starting from early age (teen-age), finally could fully stop 7 years ago. After that, everything seems possible.

As I am working out in my garage, your video stopped me dead in my tracks. I thought that was me talking about my story. Your story and my story are so similar except I have 9yrs in July. When I quit drinking it was cold turkey, and I found myself needing a hobby. It was a tossup between golf and getting a bike I thought getting a bike would be cheaper. Almost 10 years later; two mountain bikes, two ride bikes and all the great gear that goes with it I should’ve took up golf. I am in the best shape of my life now, at 60 years old and I am working on getting my first gravel bike. The pandemic has slowed the process a little bit in me getting that gravel bike but it’s going to happen. Before watching your five year anniversary video I watched the divide video which took you over 23 days and after watching that I move that to the top of my bucket list. Again happy five year anniversary keep making the inspirational videos I will keep watching.

Congrats and thanks Ryan. A little over a year alcohol free, myself. It was a little sadder and lonely for me, but I relate so much to what you shared.

Ryan - stoked that you are Sober!! I think that you may have been a hard drinker and not an alcoholic. Your call, happy for you regardless...

I like how you say everything really is better when you’re sober. It truly is. People also ask me if I’ll ever drink again and when I say no, they ask me “why?” or “then what do you do for fun?”. like you said everything is so much clearer and you can still do the same activities with friends and still have fun. There really are zero benefits to drinking and once you realize that it becomes natural to not want to drink anymore.

I'm at 4 years & 7 months, can't wait to hit 5 years! Congrats to you!

I watched your 1st video on your sobriety. It motivated me to attempt sobriety for the 1st time in my life. Been on and off the last few years.Recently had a tumor removed from my kidney,which was probably caused by my binge drinking.That being said i'm 45 days af and i intend to stay that way. Thank you for this vid. My new life goal(i'm 56 yrs old)is to become a triathalete!!!...:)

I remember seeing your video back in 2015, it took me two more years to stop drinking alcohol. I am so grateful for your honesty and willingness to be vulnerable. You are a doll. I am so grateful to you dear Ryan.

Congrats on 5 years! 🎉 I made a new year's resolution in 2017 to see if I could go an entire year without alcohol. And I barely drank then (did drink a bit in college), usually had a glass or two of wine once a week. It was successful and I just kept it up. And your one year sober video solidified it in my head to stay the course. Life is so great without it! :)

One of your finest attributes Duzer, allowing yourself to be publicly vunerable... Great messaging 👍🏽

Ryan, you’re such an inspiration. As ever. Meeting you in September of 2019 at the Walnnut Cafe was a true American highlight to me. Having followed you for many, many years, you never fail to impress and inspire. I’ve been a drinker since the age of 18. I’m now 51. Lord knows how much money I’ve spent on alcohol. Never mind the days lost through the hangovers. I can do the odd days without it, but to totally quit it, like you seems out of reach. I’d love to be able to meet you again in a few years and tell you that I’m sober. Thanks again for another great video. You’re always welcome to my home, here in England. Cheers Ryan.

It's been 8 1/2 years for me, and its been good for me, alcohol no longer controlling my life

Congratulations Ryan, I applaud you for having the guts to put it all out there and openly tell your story. My personality is very much like yours, my motto was “moderation is for cowards”. That was with everything I did in life, including drinking. I have been sober since 2010 and it too is the best decision I ever made. My life completely changed for the better. FWIW I used AA and it helped immensely. Anyone reading this that thinks they have a problem, get some help from wherever or whoever you can.

Ryan you rock thanks for sharing your story and letting the world know you don't have to drink to ride to live life to the fullest. You're a true Free Rider and a talent keep the faith and keep the plug in The Jug as I have for 34 years today 8.24 87

Congratulations on 5yrs! 🎉 I have 3.5yrs myself. I love that you are willing to speak about this! Yay to no hangovers and remembering everything I did last night! Woohoo!

Power Brother! I'm 412 days dry today. Rubber side down, head down, go for that horizon! 🤘🏻

Best person on RU-vid. Love you bro.

Thanks for saying that you have as much fun sober as not. This is also my experience. Keep it sober and have a blast while you’re at it!