How to Cycle Safely Amid the Covid-19 Pandemic
The Covid-19 coronavirus epidemic is certainly throwing a spanner in the works when it comes to South African cycling. The pandemic continues to spread, causing organisers to cancel the highly anticipated Absa Cape Epic and other major cycling events. You might be wondering what you can do to protect your own health as a cyclist, and how the outbreak could affect your training schedule. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep you and your family safe while still enjoying the pastime you love.
Exercise If You Are Well
If you are feeling healthy and have not contracted Covid-19 yourself, health experts say that you are free to cycle outdoors. They recommend light exercise only, as strenuous exercise can impact your immune system. It is vital to keep your immunity healthy at this time, so remember to eat well and hydrate as much as possible.
It is also better to cycle alone than in groups to prevent the possible spread of the virus. If you must cycle in a group, it’s recommended that you stick to small groups of healthy people only. Do not share water bottles or personal equipment with other cyclists and carry hand sanitiser with you in case it is needed.
Cyclists might also fear riding outside in the cooler weather, but you needn’t be concerned. There is no scientific data proving that you can get ill from any respiratory virus when riding your bike in cold weather. Just be sure to dress appropriately for the weather you are riding in and you will have little to worry about.
Get an Indoor Trainer
If you are currently training professionally or can’t bear to be without your daily training sessions, another good option is to purchase an indoor trainer. An indoor trainer will allow you to continue to cycle at your own pace and frequency, without exposing you to the outdoor world and the possibility of contracting Covid-19.
Our range of online trainers at Bike Addict will have what you need to get started with an indoor training regimen.
Join an Online Race
Online races are a great way for cyclists to enjoy the sport they love without physically participating in it. These digital races allow real people from all over the world to compete with one another in a simulated cycling environment.
Some use a leader-board system to determine the winner, while others pit pairs of players against each other instead. You can also participate in cycling-based video games, which allow you to finely control your virtual biking performance. It’s not the real thing, but it will definitely provide some good entertainment until you can hit the road again.
Avoid Going to the Gym
South African authorities are encouraging locals to self-isolate themselves in the wake of the spreading virus. Of course, that means that going to the gym is a big no-no. Gyms are hotbeds for microbial activity and can see hundreds or thousands of people going through their doors every day. If you want to reduce your chances of catching the coronavirus, your best bet is to find ways of training and exercising at home until the pandemic is under control.
Buy Cycling Equipment from a Reputable Seller
If you need any cycling equipment to get you through during the outbreak, experts suggest always buying your equipment from a reputable seller that cares for your health and well-being. At Bike Addict we are here to provide you with all the supplies you need to foster your passion for cycling, no matter what. Check out our online shop for all your cycling needs and stay safe and healthy during the pandemic.