Expert Advice For New Cyclists
The new year is upon us, and most people have a few resolutions to go along with it. Many people make resolutions to eat healthier, become fitter, or pick up a brand new sport each January – and if this sounds anything like you, you may well have considered breaking into the world of cycling in 2020!
If you want to be fitter, healthier and more agile this year, cycling is a fantastic way to achieve all of that and more. Here is our best advice for new cyclists who are looking to get into the sport for the first time.
#1: Start Off Simple
Are you intimidated by all the equipment and gear that professional cyclists seem to need for the sport? Don’t be. If you are just getting started, you certainly don’t need the best bicycle, the most expensive accessories, or world-class gear, at least not to begin with.
Speak to us and we’ll be able to advise you on the best bike to suit your budget, whether this is new or pre-owned. You can always upgrade and go for a better bike later down the line, but as a newbie you should not worry about getting top of the range equipment. All in good time!
#2: Join a Group
New Year’s resolutions often fall through within the first few months of the year, and most people cite a lack of motivation as the cause. If you want to stay inspired to continue cycling all year long, there are a few things you can do to help yourself out.
One of the best is to find yourself a cycling partner, or join a local cycling group. This will help to keep you motivated and encourage you to train regularly, and you might even be able to make some new friends with common interests in the process.
#3: Buy Suitable Apparel
We have already mentioned that you don’t need the best or most expensive equipment to get started on your cycling journey. With that said, it is important to buy gear and apparel that suits your individual needs and that is a good fit and provides for maximum comfort and ease of movement.
Our recommendation is to invest in a pair of quality cycling shorts, which will provide you with extra padding if you are new to cycling. You can opt for tight fitting cycling clothes or a looser style, depending on the kind of cycling you are doing and what you feel most comfortable in as well.
#4: Get Your Bike Set Up Right
If you already have a bike handy, your next step should be to have it set up correctly. You can chat to our expert team who can ensure that it is safe and set up correctly for you. If you still need to buy a bicycle, it is crucial to purchase the right one for your purposes. Check that the suspension, wheel size, & frame size are perfect for you and you will enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable ride all round.
#5: Check Your Diet
Like most other athletes, cyclists need to eat a healthy diet that is tailored specifically to their physical needs. Your diet should consist of plenty of complex carbs, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, fresh water, and electrolytes.
Working with a nutritionist is a great way to ensure that your diet is giving you enough of what you need to perform perfectly on the track or trails. There are also many diet plans and much free advice available online.
#6: Structure a Training Plan
Planning is a key step if you want to succeed in your new year cycling goals. Even newbies will benefit from finding a structured training plan. Training plans help you to avoid burnout, monitor your heart rate, and ensure that you have enough rest days so that you can heal properly. You can download apps that help you track your progress, and invest in a HR monitor, or training devices like Garmin, Sigma, Wahoo or similar device so you can keep tabs on how you’re doing.
If you’re serious about your cycling we also suggest that you work alongside a sports trainer or a professional of your choice to get a comprehensive plan in place.