Riding a bike can be one of the most relaxing experiences. Aside from being a recreational activity, biking is increasingly being used for commuting. Since 2000, the number of Americans who ride their bikes to work has increased by 61%. Riding a bike is not difficult; however, we do not learn how to do so at birth. It’s also not rocket science, but it does require some practise to get used to, and we’re here to assist you at every step of the way.
Before Beginning a Bike Ride Journey
Bike riding, however simple it may appear, is a process that requires our attention before, during, and after. We don’t recommend just getting on your bike and riding, so here’s a beginner cycling plan to make your experience as enjoyable as possible.
Bring your bike to the shop.
Some people know their bikes like the back of their hands, while others have no idea where anything goes. Don’t worry if you’re the second one; you don’t have to know everything. However, we recommend that you learn the fundamentals of bicycles, and the best place to do so is a bike shop. Employees at bike shops have a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be extremely beneficial to your biking adventure.
Dress appropriately for the weather.
You don’t want to be freezing in the cold or sweating and uncomfortable in the heat while riding your bike. To avoid these problems, check the weather forecast before embarking on your journey. On rainy days, we recommend wearing a waterproof jacket and rain pants. On hot and sunny days, a t-shirt and sunglasses should suffice.
Wear a helmet.
First and foremost, safety. We understand that you want to be as comfortable as possible while riding a bike. However, without safety, comfort is meaningless. If our words do not persuade you, consider the following statistics: Bicycle helmets cut the risk of serious head injury in half.
Get some water and snacks for the road.
Riding a bike necessitates physical activity, and you can expect to become thirsty and hungry. As a result, we recommend that you always bring water and food with you when driving. Most bicycles have a water bottle holder, but if yours does not, keep some in your backpack.
Where Should You Practice Biking?
You’ve prepared for your journey, taken all necessary precautions, and are ready to ride. However, where should you do it? Bike training for beginners should not be done anywhere. We recommend that you practise riding your bike in safe areas, with someone accompanying you, and on a pre-planned route.
In safe locations
Beginner cyclists may be exposed to various risks, and their lack of experience may place them in awkward situations. Riding a bike for the first time in a congested area with people or vehicles is not a good idea. A spacious and not overly crowded environment, on the other hand, is an excellent starting point. However, make sure you are not too far away and in a deserted area because you will need someone to assist you if something unfortunate occurs.
Make a route plan ahead of time.
If you are the type of person who plans everything in their life, your route will most likely be planned ahead of time; however, if you like to improvise, bike training for beginners is not the time to do so. Planning your route ahead of time will allow you to know where you’re going and estimate your arrival time.
Find some riding companions.
Experiences should be shared. Some of you may want to bike alone to clear your mind, but that is something you can do later when you have more experience. We recommend that you bring some company for your first steps so that you can help each other, share a conversation, and train together.
Where Should You Begin?
You’re about to have your first bike ride, and you’ll remember it for the rest of your life. Remember to stay calm, pedal in a steady rhythm, and use the bicycle parts correctly.
Learning to pedal in a consistent rhythm
We may not remember, but when we were kids and took our first steps, we would always lose our balance. The same thing may happen when you first start pedalling, but it is nothing to be concerned about. The key is to pedal in a steady rhythm, not too slowly but also not too quickly. “Life is like riding a bicycle,” Albert Einstein once said. You must keep moving to maintain your balance.”
Learning how to corner correctly
The roads you will cycle on have many twists and turns, just like life. Riding around corners is difficult. Even the most skilled and experienced bikers may encounter difficulties, but this should not deter you. When approaching a corner, the three most important factors to consider are corner sharpness, lane width, and surface grip. If the corner is too sharp, you must take a wider turn to be safe, which is where wide roads come in handy. You’ll have less grip if the surface is wet or broken, so slow down to avoid losing your balance.
Learning how to operate the gears
You may wonder why bikes require so many gears. This is due to the fact that no single gear can maintain a comfortable pedalling speed in any terrain. Multiple gears allow you to adjust your pedalling based on the terrain you’re cycling on. When riding at high speeds and descending, the high gear (also known as the big gear) is adequate.
The low gear, on the other hand, is ideal for climbing. Now that you know what gears are, here are some tips on how to use them. The shifter on the left side of your wheel controls the front gears, which you should use when the terrain changes abruptly. The rear gears are controlled by the shifter on the right side of your wheel, and you should use them when the terrain changes.
When You Return From Your Bike Ride Training
You’ve had your fun, and you now understand the fundamentals of bike riding. Now is the time to learn what you need to do when you return from your training. You and your bike have been on an adventure, but now you both require attention.
Clean your bicycle.
We can only imagine how difficult it must be to return home after a fun day of riding your bike and realise it’s time to clean it. However, we recommend that you clean your bike once in a while to ensure that it rides smoothly.
This process does not take long and can be completed with only a few tools. All you need are some clean rags, water, a degreaser, and lubricant. You can also use a chain cleaner and a bike stand to make the ride more comfortable.
Rehydrate with water and nutrient-dense foods.
Now that you’ve looked after your bike, it’s time to look after yourself. Riding a bike requires a lot of energy, and you don’t want to be tired. Refueling with water and nutrient-dense foods is an important first step toward recovery. Nutrient-dense foods will recharge your batteries and get you ready for the rest of your day.
Utilize compression socks.
Have you seen the muscles of professional cyclists? They’re fantastic, but they don’t develop by lying in bed or walking. Biking engages many muscles, particularly those in the lower body, and you should expect sore muscles after your ride. Don’t be concerned; we’ve got you covered. If you want to feel better and recover faster, we recommend wearing compression socks. They increase blood flow and can reduce pain and swelling in the legs.
That’s all. This beginner cycling training plan is intended to assist you in learning a new skill. Take your bike, your equipment, and your friends, and enjoy the wonderful experience that biking provides.
