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Considering getting into cycling? This could be a great addition to your day to day routine. Whether you decide to cycle once a fortnight or every day, it can bring a great hobby into your life for you to look forward to. Plus, it can really help with your overall health and wellbeing. Here are a few pieces of information, as well as tips and tricks, that can help you to get started on your cycling journey.

Health Benefits

One of the main reasons people get into cycling is, of course, the health benefits. It’s recommended that the average adult gets one hundred and fifty minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week, or seventy five minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise. All too many people fail to reach this goal for various reasons. Some people have busy schedules and fail to fit it in. Some people simply don’t feel like exercising and avoid it. Trying cycling is definitely worth it, as you can find a form of exercise you actually enjoy. You get to spend some time outdoors and the sensation of cycling is fun and freeing. These are some of the health benefits you can enjoy:

• Increased cardiovascular fitness
• Increased muscle strength
• Increased flexibility
• Improved joint mobility
• Reduced stress levels
• Improved posture
• Improved coordination
• Stronger bones
• Reduced body fat
• Can help anxiety and depression

Cycling is also a convenient form of exercise that many people can really enjoy. It is low impact, making it kind on the joints and is suitable for elderly individuals or people who may need to ease themselves slowly into exercise.

Other Benefits

Of course, if you get really into your cycling and start traveling longer distances, there are other benefits that come hand in hand with the activity alongside the health benefits too! First, you may find that you don’t actually need a car anymore and can save a lot of money by cycling to the places you need to go instead. Secondly, there can be a social element to cycling. If you find others who are also into cycling you can meet up on a regular basis, stopping off at cafes and other locations to chat.

Getting the Essentials

Of course, getting started with cycling is going to cost a little money to get started. There are a few things that you will need to buy to be able to get started and hit the cycle path. The good news is that once you’ve bought the basics, you should be set for a long time. You can then choose to invest in more professional, niche or specific wear and accessories as time goes on and as you get more into the activity.

A Bike

Of course, to cycle, you’re going to need a bicycle. There are countless different makes, models and designs of bikes available on the market. From road bikes to mountain bikes to BMXs. Only you can know which option will be best for you to suit your individual preferences and needs. Once you’ve chosen a model, make sure to visit a seller or specialist who will be able to make recommendations regarding what size frame will suit you best.

A Helmet

Safety is key. You’re going to need a helmet for your cycling and it’s important that you wear it every single time you get on your bike. Even small falls can result in great injuries with lasting consequences if you fall and hit your head without a helmet on. This is a potentially life saving piece of equipment. There are plenty of models available, so make sure to browse your options and to choose something that fits you well.

Bike Lights

If you’re going to be cycling at night, in the dark or in less than favourable weather conditions (such as fog, rain or other elements), you should make sure that you have a bike light. This will not only light your way, making sure you can see what is ahead of you, but it can also ensure that other road users, pedestrians and other individuals around you can see your presence. This can prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.

Reflective Clothing

It’s also a good idea to wear reflective clothing if you’re planning on cycling in any of the conditions or elements highlighted above. This will give you further visibility, further increasing your safety while you’re out and about.

As you can see, there’s a lot to mull over when it comes to getting started with cycling. But hopefully, some of the information and suggestions will help you to get on two wheels in next to no time!