They say you never forget how to ride a bike, but that doesn't mean you are fully ready to jump into cycling again on the road. Knowing how to manipulate your bike is an essential part of this activity. Still, like any workout, cycling involves protocols and best practices that are essential for your safety and overall enjoyment — and that goes for beginners and trained cyclists alike. If you're thinking about taking up this hobby, check out these tips before hitting the road.
First, You'll Need a Bike
The charm of cycling is that you can never be too young or too old to start, there are a plethora of reasons why someone would want to take up cycling. Some people want to explore their countryside more, get in shape, spend more time with friends, or compete in a race. You don't even have to be a leisurely cyclist to train for a race. A bicycle will likely be your biggest purchase, and most importantly, your bike needs to be in a good stable condition. When purchasing your first bicycle, it is worthwhile to do a little research either by reading up online or going to talk to your local bike shop.
Gear- Up
A helmet is non-negotiable, so don't even think of saddling up without one. Here's your excuse to buy another pair of bicycle shorts! They certainly are valuable for rides that extend longer than an hour. It is always better to be over-prepared. With that being said, snacks aren't required, but if you have room in your pockets, feel free to bring them along, in case you're feeling snacky or need a pick me up.
Plan Your Route Wisely
When it comes to planning your first ride, take your personal fitness level and your bike's confidence into consideration. To reduce the risk of painful injuries, it's better to begin with shorter rides and slowly add on as you start to feel more comfortable. Riding loops through your neighborhood for your first couple of rides is a great place to start. Go a few more miles and, if you're feeling great, do another loop! Cycling should be fun, and you should do it when it best fits your schedule. There are people who take their bikes to work and cycle during their lunch break. Some go before breakfast when they wake up. Biking to work is also an option! If you can do so safely, consider forming a cycling group. One of the best things about cycling is biking with friends, so get your friends and family on a bike, too!