Cycling is something that more than 66 million Americans took part in just last year, and is among one of the most popular recreational activities out there. It’s a great way to get fit, enjoy the outdoors, and can even act as transportation to and from work and school. Cycling has been shown to improve a person’s mental well-being, it can help with weight loss, improves lung health, builds muscle, can help cut down the risk of cancer and heart disease and is low impact, just to name a few benefits.
If you’ve decided that cycling is something that you want to get into you’ll be happy to know it’s a sport that isn’t really confusing, nor does it require all kinds of equipment. With that said there are some tips that can help beginners to transition into the sport with ease.
Don’t Leave the House without a Helmet
The most important advice for any beginner cyclist is to make sure that you go out and purchase a properly fitting helmet before heading out on your bike. Head injuries account for 60% of all cycling deaths in the U.S. each year, so it’s not something you want to take chances with. Even if your state doesn’t have a helmet law, it’s still vital that you wear one.
Pick Out the Right Bike
It’s easy to walk into a store and be swayed by how a bike looks or its price tag, but this won’t help you find the “right” bike. In order for the bike to be right for you, the fit has to be perfect. The perfect fit helps to decrease soreness and leg pain during and after you go biking. It also makes riding the bike more comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to move around a bit as you cycle. Pros know to move their hands around on the handlebars and make slight adjustments in how their rear is placed on the seat. This helps to prevent numbness if you are out riding for a long time.
Leave the Headphones at Home
You’ve probably seen lots of people biking with headphones on, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe. If you are cycling on the open road then you need to be aware of the traffic and pedestrians around you, which means being able to hear.
Carry Snacks with You
It’s also a good idea to carry snacks and water with you, especially if you are heading out on a long ride. As Review YT points out, snacks and water will help to keep you fuelled and energized. Of course, when you do want a drink or snack it’s best to pull to the side of the road or trail, stop pedalling, and then have your snack.
Follow the Rules of the Road
As a cyclist it’s up to you to know the rules of the road and follow them. This means stopping at stop signs and red lights, just like vehicles do, giving pedestrians the right of way and being mindful of your surroundings.
A Healthy and Enjoyable Hobby
Biking is one of those activities that is both healthy and enjoyable and because it’s so easy to pick up, it’s a hobby most people can take part in.
