Thinking about starting to cycle? This is a great alternative for physical and mental health, in addition to bringing benefits to social integration . However, cycling requires some care that requires attention.
Cycling is an ancient sport and has undergone several evolutions throughout its history. The bicycle is its main tool, but there are several other modalities that can be practiced by those who enjoy life on two wheels.
In this material, we will talk about this and bring more information about this sport and leisure modality. Follow along!
Why start cycling?
In a world where cultural habits and customs change all the time, the use of bicycles as a means of transportation is increasing every day. Thus, the bike is a powerful tool in several aspects of the user’s routine.
After all, it helps you escape the traffic jams in big cities and also adopt a healthier lifestyle. Therefore, there are plenty of reasons to invest in your health by betting on cycling.
In addition to being enjoyable to ride a bike, it is a cheap and sustainable means of transport . Therefore, its use, whatever the purpose, generates significant health benefits.
What are the health benefits?
We have highlighted some of the most relevant benefits related to cycling. Here are some more reasons to start cycling:
- helps in reducing body weight;
- strengthens and improves muscle tone;
- provides mental, physical and social well-being;
- increases respiratory capacity;
- does not harm joints and ligaments ;
- reduces cholesterol levels;
- helps prevent and control diabetes;
- stimulates the body to release endorphins and serotonin, hormones that improve mood and disposition;
- controls blood pressure;
- reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
What are the main cycling disciplines?
Cycling modalities vary depending on the environment. They can also change according to the type and mechanics of the bicycle, the safety equipment and the clothing. Furthermore, each modality requires different training and has its own regulations.
In general, the main objective of cycling is to reach a goal in the shortest possible time. To achieve this, the appropriate bicycle for each sport must be used, as well as safety equipment that guarantees the physical integrity of the athletes .
Generally speaking, there are three main types of cycling. Check them out!
Speed
This is the traditional road cycling. It is a very common sport in Europe. Road bikes are made to be fast. Therefore, they are light and not very comfortable.
They have a seat that is higher than the handlebars, causing the cyclist to lean forward, all to gain more speed. It is not a modality completely recommended for beginners, as the constantly leaning posture can cause pain in the spine and neck .
If you want to get into this type of sport, it is recommended to do short distances and vary your posture at first. It is worth remembering that speed cycling is not a very cheap sport. A bike for this sport tends to cost more than a regular bike and requires a lot of maintenance. Not to mention the appropriate clothing and safety equipment, which are essential.
On the other hand, this is a sport that can be practiced anywhere that has a paved road or regular, unpaved ground. In this sense, it is different from other sports, as they require a specific environment to practice.
In addition, speed also has peculiar characteristics. As it is a high-speed category, it allows long distances to be covered in a short space of time. This is good because the cyclist can explore different places.
Another advantage, especially for those who are just starting out cycling, is that this sport can be practiced in a group. This activity encourages interpersonal relationships, but it has the disadvantage of road risks.
Cyclists must be very careful with some aspects of cycling. One of the most important aspects concerns vehicle traffic. In the absence of a cycle path, speed bikes share space with cars, motorcycles, buses and trucks. This can pose risks to the cyclist’s physical integrity.
Mountain bike
This sport is usually practiced on trails , in nature, and falls under the category of adventure sports. The bike for this sport requires constant maintenance, as it is always in contact with uneven terrain, steep climbs and descents and with impact.
It is a sport that has several competitions, With this, the beginner has the help of the members of these groups, in addition to being able to count on different levels of difficulty of trails to practice.
Contact with nature is its strong point, since the routes are more focused on ecotourism. Since these areas are further away from the big cities, the athlete needs to transport the bike to the appropriate location. Without a doubt, this is rewarded by the pleasure of practicing this sport.
Recreational cycling
This is the best-known sport and is very popular for leisure. It can be practiced by beginners, children and the elderly, and can be enjoyed by the whole family. The routes vary according to the participant’s profile. Generally, recreational cycling is the sport for those who are just starting out cycling.
What are the best tips for beginners?
We have listed some tips for those who are beginners in cycling. Check them out!
Choose a bike that suits your profile
To start cycling, it isn’t always important to straight away spend money on a latest motorcycle. Even so, the proper desire will depend loads on your bodily profile and the type of biking you want to do.
A less difficult version is appropriate for riding around parks and bike paths in your metropolis. However, if you plan to head trekking or participate in competitions, it is first-rate to invest more to your motorcycle. In this situation, you’ll want to take note of features along with version, style, sort of brakes and suspension.
Wear appropriate apparel, footwear and add-ons
In addition to a bicycle, every other vital piece of device to begin cycling is a appropriate helmet. This is the sort of fundamental and important object that we don’t even need to mention it, proper? So, spend money on a version with top ventilation, that is simple to fasten and is product of pleasant cloth for extra safety in the event of a fall.
Other advocated items encompass garb particularly designed for cycling, which gives comfort and protection. Shorts need to be padded to save you chafing, even as t-shirts should be made from lightweight material. Gloves, goggles and caps are also vital add-ons.
Take the opportunity to make new friends with other cyclists
A great tip for those who are starting out in this sport is to ride in a group . In addition to being safer than riding alone, it is also fun and promotes integration with other cyclists who have experience in this sport.
As you can see, you can start cycling on the streets, parks and bike paths of your city. Over time, you can move on to other categories. Regardless of the modality, cycling generates many benefits for the health of the body and mind.