Beginners Guide to Cycling

Cycling is a great way to get fit and to maintain your cardiovascular fitness levels.  It’s something we usually all learn how to do when we’re children but all too often as adults, our cycling skills delude us and we never ride a bike again!  Regular cycling such as to work, to the shops or with the children in the summer, can help boost your mood and keep your weight under control so why not make this summer the summer you got back on your bike.

If you’re considering buying a second hand bike, make sure you get it serviced before you begin using it.  If you’re buying new, a bike shop will be able to advise you on the correct type of bike for your requirements and best size of frame for you.  Check with your employer as some companies operate a ‘cycle to work’ scheme where they sometimes contribute towards the cost of a new bike.  Make sure you wear a cycle helmet as a protection against injury.  Specialist bike shops will have plenty to choose from and will even help you make sure you get the correct size and fit.

To start off with, practice riding in a park or somewhere where there’s no traffic.  Once you’ve gained confidence again you can cycle on the road but it might be worth checking out the Highway Code for cyclists to make sure you know all the rules and regulations of the road.  https://www.gov.uk/rules-for-cyclists-59-to-82/overview-59-to-71  As a beginner, it’s best to take it easy and to gradually increase your cycle rides each time you go out, that way you’ll build stamina whilst gradually increasing your fitness levels.

An exercise bike is another great way to work out and keep fit.  Hiring an exercise bike from Hire Fitness means you’ll never have to break your cycling programme due to bad weatherand you can cycle at any time of the day or night in the safety of your own home.  We have a range of exercise bikes available for hire to suit home, office or commercial settings.  Hires start from just 4 weeks.  Give us a call for further information on 0800 97 88 555