One form of outside exercise is cycling. Maybe you’re considering cycling to work for the first time or trying to exercise. According to recent research, people who cycle frequently are 31 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure.
Whether you’re a road cyclist, mountain biker, or city commuter, these top six tips can help you safely navigate your journey.
1. Buy The Bicycle Fits Your Needs
First, you’ll need to get a bike. A local bike shop can be the best place to start. The right bike for you will depend on what kind of cyclist you see yourself as. There are road bikes and hybrid bikes, electric-assist bikes, juvenile bikes, cruisers, and mountain bikes.
Road bicycles are optimized for riding on the pavement while mountain bikes are built to withstand frequent use. It’s possible to get the maximum return for your money by purchasing a second-hand bike. Expensive bikes have expensive running costs, but a gravel bike may be up your street if you want to travel off the road.
2. Go Clipless
Riding clipless is a very different experience from riding on flat pedals. Riding with your feet clipped into your pedals means you have to spin both the right and left pedals toward the rear wheel. Either way, there are significant benefits to unlock with clipless pedals.
One of the significant benefits of clipless pedals is that they offer an excellent connection to your bike’s power train. Also, the stiffness of clip shoes increases comfort and power. Nearly all clipless pedal systems have tension and float adjustment. Once you have the cleats bolted to your shoes, simply twist your ankle outwards.
3. Overcome Saddle Soreness
Soreness and discomfort can easily ruin a ride. Most cyclists will suffer from saddle sores from time to time. It’s your ‘sit bones’ and the perineum, which are most prone to soreness. Fortunately, you can do something about it.
First, your saddle should be the right width for your butt. Try different thicknesses, shapes, and cuts. Next, adjust the up and down angle of your saddle and the shape and size of your saddle.
You can also make yourself more resistant to infection by going with a slightly higher handlebar height. Lastly, never wear underwear under your riding shorts.
4. Be Confident While Cycling
However carefully you ride, you might still feel as though you are cheating death. Whether it’s cycling in traffic, speeding downhill, or crashing hard, your lack of confidence can kill your playtime. The more confident you are on the road, the safer you’ll be. If you find that your cycling is being hindered by nervousness, engage in enough confidence-building tours. You can learn about some of the best tours at emergingpictures.com.
You can ride with a friend who’s comfortable on the roads. When it’s time to go, you can simply keep your speed in check by gently squeezing your brakes. You can also scoot back on your saddle or get a bike with a hub dynamo that provides unlimited power. Lastly, make sure you get yourself a decent set of lights.
5. Become a Member of a Cycling Club
Sometimes cycling on your own is great, but it can be beneficial to join a local cycling club. But what exactly does membership do for you? The first and most obvious reason is that you’ll learn useful skills you might not be exposed to riding solo. With a bunch of other people, it’s easier to maintain a shared focus on safety and make sure everyone makes it back.
In addition to making new friends, you’ll gain confidence and improve your endurance by merely riding together. You may even find out about how to judge your capabilities and physical limits. However, it’s crucial to follow club rules for your own safety.
6. Position Yourself Comfortably
A good bike position can increase speed and comfort. It may sound simple, but sitting too high can lead to issues in the thigh and hips. A proper bike fit is essential so that you can produce the most power. For best performance and injury prevention, start with your saddle in a flat position.
Another factor to consider is the correct positioning of the pedals. The platform must be large enough to feel secure. And while you’re at it, try not to bend your wrists too much.
Get Started
Riding your bicycle is one of the best ways to boost your brainpower, fitness, bank balance, and more. Once you get the hang of it, it’s effortless.