Are you new to cycling? Here is a helpful set of handy tips to avoid the many common mistakes beginners make.
1.Cycling on the roads involves the usual traffic risks. Protect yourself with a suitable helmet, strong lights, and appropriate fluorescent clothing. Try to carry your phone and keep a piece of paper in your pocket with all the important telephone contacts written down it’s a great idea to join a group. A bunch of riders riding is much safer than solo riders. Besides the group members help a beginner to learn the basics of cycling fast and over time you tend to develop strong bonds with many fellow riders. It also makes the ride much more fun so this is strongly recommended!
2.To make your ride comfortable, invest in padded shorts and jerseys as appropriate
3.Always check the tyres for suitable air pressure before starting. You can usually see the right air pressure level written on the sides of the tyres. Wherever possible, carry spares (tube, puncture kits)
4.Choose your routes carefully. You can follow the information posted online by various cycling groups in the cities. Many such groups can be found on social media and other websites. These groups have experience of the various routes and post rides accordingly
5.Cycling is an endurance sport. Depending on the length and intensity of your ride, you can get dehydrated & fatigued. Carry enough hydration solution/water for your entire ride or refill it at pit stops as and when possible. Keep hydrating yourself at regular intervals (every 10-15 mins is ideal) to enjoy the distance and to stay alert. Dehydration can very quickly wipe out your energy levels. Severe dehydration can cause brain fog which could be fatal when you are on the road. If you are planning to ride for more than 60 mins, carry some carbohydrate-based snacks to provide you energy on the go… dates, dried fruits, chocolates, energy bars, bananas & sandwiches are what most cyclists prefer
6.Always begin and end your ride with mild mobility and stretch exercises to keep your muscles supple and recover faster for the next ride. Ride on!
Reviewed by- Gagan Arora
*image source- Photo by Brett Sayles from Pexels
