Cycling is a terrific way of seeing the local countryside – and getting into shape in the process.
It’s a great form of exercise, a way to improve your core strength, firm up your muscles and shed a few excess pounds in the process.
It will help increase your stamina and endurance levels, give a good workout to knees, thighs and ankles – and is the perfect excuse to venture outside and get a healthy dose of fresh air into the bargain.
All you need in a decent set of wheels, the right protective gear – and the get-up-and-go to get out there and give it a try.
Start Off Slowly
Be sensible – don’t plan a multi-mile bike trip until you’ve built up your stamina – and your leg muscles – first.
It takes time to acclimatise both…not to mention your buttocks! Even with a softer ‘jelly’ saddle underneath you, your rear end will need to get used to certain discomfort at the beginning.
Practice makes perfect – build up the miles gradually, aiming to increase the distance little by little each time.
What to Wear
Head protection is a must. A cycle helmet might not look ‘cool,’ but in the case of an accident it could very well save your life or at least prevent a serious head injury.
Any helmet that suffers impact of any sort must be replaced immediately – the foam lining is designed to absorb shock but will not recover from the trauma of a major blow.
Always carry a set of waterproofs – they’ll pack down easily in a rucksack or panniers and will greatly add to the experience in case of a torrential downpour. This is the wettest British summer so far on record after all!
Wear layers to keep warm in the cold – baselayers will keep the heat in, expel perspiration, and can be added or discarded as necessary.
If the weather does take a turn for the better and cycling shorts become a possibility, make certain they are padded in the right places to ensure that sitting on a saddle for long periods does not become a hardship.
Special cycling gloves will help prevent blisters and absorb vibration on uneven surfaces.
What to Carry
Plenty of liquids – dehydration can become a serious problem in the heat.
A few goodies for a roadside stop – there’s nothing like a tasty snack en route, knowing you’ve earned a rest after having put a few miles on the clock. A well-deserved beer at a convenient pub has a similar effect!
Puncture repair kit with spare inner tube, multi-spanner and a pump.
Sun cream – just in case the sun does shine!
How to Carry It
Lightweight rucksacks specifically designed for daytrips will hold all your essentials – special hydration packs also incorporate an internal bladder for water.
Saddle bags – panniers that sit either side of the rear wheel – will not unbalance the bike if packed carefully. A compact cycle bag under the handlebars will also hold small items.
***About Today’s Guest Blogger: Nicki Williams writes for Gear-Zone, where you’ll find a comprehensive range of waterproofs and baselayers from leading brands including Rab, Berghaus, Smartwool, Icebreaker and The North Face.
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