I’m sure that many of you will agree that cycling is an incredibly fun sport. It’s one of the most enjoyable and sustainable ways to strengthen your body, go from point A to point B, and see the world. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, fit or sedentary. Cycling as an exercise gives your circulatory and respiratory system a much-needed workout and can burn upwards of 500 calories every hour.
While the general form of the bicycle has changed little since it was first invented, improvements in bicycle design have led to stronger and more efficient models such as the hybrid, which combines the strength of a mountain bike and the speed of a city bike. For beginners, cycling has never been easier.
People can now choose from a wide array of options to suit their requirements. More and more places are becoming more bicycle-friendly, with dedicated bicycle lanes and parking stations in cities and towns across America. Here are a few tips for improving your safety and comfort when using a bicycle.
- Wear a helmet
Over half a million bicycle users across the country are rushed to the emergency room every year. The most commonly affected part is the head, with head trauma accounting for nearly 75 percent of biking fatalities. If used properly, a bicycle helmet can reduce the chances of a brain injury from occurring by as much as 90 percent.
Make sure to choose a helmet that meets international product safety standards. The helmet should also fit your head properly. Make sure to choose a helmet with a bright color to improve your visibility while on the road.
- Choose a frame that fits your body
When buying a new bicycle, make sure that the frame size is right for your body shape. One of the best ways to check the bicycle’s frame is to stand right beside it or straddle it.
If you’re using a city bike, there should be at least an inch of clearance between the top tube and your groin. For mountain bikes, the clearance between the tube and your groin should be at least two inches. The handlebars should be at least an inch lower than the seat top. It helps to buy a bicycle from a respected dealer who can help you in your buying process.
- Invest in a good seat
Many racing bicycles have hard and narrow seats, which many women find especially uncomfortable to sit on. Special ergonomically-designed saddles typically have more cushioning and are wider, making them ideal for riders with comfort issues.
Other bike accessories such as sheepskin pads and gel-filled pads can reduce friction and relieve pressure. When positioning the saddle, make sure that the knee is only slightly bent when at the nadir of each rotation. The seat is set too low if your knee is bent too much.
- Start slow
If you’re just starting out, it’s best to start biking at low speeds. Ride around a safe area for 30 to 60 minutes a day on flat terrain for the first month. After that, you can increase the intensity of your workout and ride on rougher terrain. For instance, you might want to go over hills for a more rigorous workout. Riding in a group can also make the experience more fun and help increase your motivation.
- Wear comfortable clothes
If you’re thinking of cycling a lot, you might want to invest in a pair or two of good cycling shorts. Cycling shorts are made of a material that is less likely to wrinkle, reducing the chances of skin irritation. For additional protection, some cycling shorts have no seams at the crotch while others have special padding that helps absorb perspiration.
Always wear special cycling cleated shoes when using clipless pedals. The cleat locks into a feature in the pedals, holding the shoes in place. While the sensation can be awkward at first, the cycling shoes will help you cycle more efficiently and powerfully.
- Buy a phone mount
Smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives, and we would literally be lost without one. Many bicycle users rely on their phones to plan their routes and track their progress. It might be smart to get a phone mount to keep your phone safe. Otherwise, you could drop your expensive gadget and get a screen replacement.
A final word
These things will help you become a responsible biker. Make sure to obey all traffic laws and to be cautious of cars and pedestrians. A responsible cyclist values safety above all else, so don’t do anything rash or stupid.
Meta title: 6 Things Every Beginner Cyclist Must Know
Meta desc: Cycling is a fun sport, but you also need to follow a few safety guidelines to keep yourself safe. Here are a few pointers to get you started.
