Perhaps you haven’t even thought about riding a bike since you got your driver’s license oh those many years ago, or maybe it just looks too darn dangerous out there. Perhaps this year is the time to put your excuses aside and start pedaling.
Cycling can be a very real alternative to the hassle, expense, and pressure of joining a gym. It offers all the benefits of regular exercise. It increases aerobic fitness and it reduces risk of cardiovascular disease.
Here are some get back on the bike tips to consider:
• Your bike should be the right size for you, and the saddle and handlebars should be adjusted to the right height for your body. As a rule of thumb, your legs should not be fully extended when you are pedalling, and you should be able to reach the ground with ease with your feet when you are slowing or stopped.
• Make sure your brakes are in good condition and it is not only a legal requirement but also common sense to have a bell on your bike, in an easily reachable place. Choose a helmet that fits properly.
• If you do much cycling, you may get a sore butt. This can be a problem, but if you persevere things will get better as the skin gets used to the cycling. Choosing the right saddle for you is important. For example, a little padding built into the saddle in the appropriate areas to relieve pressure on sensitive areas works. Squishy, bulky padding that’s impressive to the touch usually causes problems if you ride for exercise or distance.
• Many cyclists get in the bad habit of sitting in one spot on the seat, which is a likely cause of numbness and pain. The solution is simply moving around on the saddle occasionally to change the pressure points. And to stand about every 15 minutes to take all the pressure off the seat.
