Cycling is a great way to exercise and keep your body in shape. It’s also really fun! But it can be tough when you are not used to the activity, or when you do not know how to do things correctly.
That’s why we have put together this blog post on cycling tips for women, that will help make cycling more enjoyable and less frustrating.
Cycling for Women: 9 cycling tips to make cycling a fun and safe experience
1. Right Fit
Get a bicycle that fits your height and cycling capabilities. Cycling can be very dangerous if you’re cycling on a bike that is too big for your height and experience. Cycling injuries are common when the bicycle doesn’t fit properly, or isn’t appropriate to ride at all (i.e., fixies).
This means finding a bike that feels comfortable as well as safe enough for you to handle it. Cycling can be dangerous when you’re not experienced enough to handle the bike, so it’s best to start off with a nice cruiser or mountain bike. Take your time and find one that feels comfortable on long rides as well as short ones.
Make sure the frame is large enough for you – don’t go too big because if it’s too big for you, then it’s too heavy. If the bike is too heavy and difficult to handle, then your cycling experience will be less enjoyable.
2. Clothing
Wear cycling-specific clothing, such as shorts with padded cycling shorts underneath. Cycling shorts are padded with cushioned foam to sit between your body and the saddle of the bike.
Cycling jerseys or other clothing made specifically for cycling will help you stay comfortable on your rides, especially if they’re designed to wick away sweat.
If you can try to get cycling bib shorts. Cycling bib shorts are much better than cycling shorts, for women because they provide extra support and protection.
Cycling bibs also help with comfort if one is planning on doing some serious cycling. They are mostly made from the same materials as biking jerseys, so they are just another layer to keep one warm and comfortable on their ride.
3. Training
Undertake an appropriate cycling training course before you hit the road. Cycling training is excellent for getting comfortable on your bike, learning how to maneuver it safely and efficiently through traffic, as well as learning how to maintain it properly.
4. Join A Club
Ride with a cyclist club or in a cycling group so you can share your passion and have someone who will watch out for you when you are cycling on the road in traffic.
Also, you can learn cycling techniques, share equipment and clothing with others who are also passionate about the sport.
It helps with motivation and staying consistent. Cycling clubs are also a great way to meet new people and make friends!
5. Protective Gear
Make sure you have a well-fitted helmet, which should be certified by a reputable safety organization such as the ISI mark (Indian Standards Institute). Cycling helmets should also fit snugly on your head and feel secure.
Cycling shoes are pretty much required for any kind of serious cycling, so make sure you invest in the right pair. Cycling shoes are made to clip into your pedals, so don’t go for flat soles or you won’t be able to ride properly.
Cycling gloves can protect your hands in the event of a fall and will help you grip the handlebars better. Cycling gloves are usually made of lycra, mesh or spandex for a good fit.
6. Learn and Practice
Learn cycling skills and practice cycling safety techniques. These will help you have with alertness, observation, signalling, positioning and maneuvering to be as safe as possible cycling on the roads with traffic.
Women should also learn how to fix a flat tire or at least the chain and other basic maintenance skills. Cycling shouldn’t be something you avoid because of fear or frustration – it should always be fun, safe. To know how to avoid cycle riding fears, read my guide.
7. Be Alert
Ride with your head up and stay alert, being aware of changing road conditions and cycling hazards. Never underestimate the dangers of cycling on busy roads, but at the same time always remain confident.
8. Climate Conditions
Avoid cycling in bad weather, particularly when it is dark or visibility may be reduced use tail lights. When cycling on the road with traffic, wear bright clothing to increase your visibility to other cyclists and motorists.
Riding a bike is not only great exercise but also has many advantages like cycling at your own pace, taking in the scenery, and enjoying cycling for fun.
9. Ensure Proper Recovery
Rest is also essential for maximum performance. Cycling should be fun and it is important not to burn out. For someone who takes cycling as a performance sport, they have to make sure they recover properly to avoid injuries.
Cycling is a form of exercise that places great demands on the body, and proper recovery is required to ensure you can get back out on the road at 100%.
So, Cycling is a great hobby and we would encourage you all to follow all these tips.