Research has proved that cycling in retirement or after 50 has numerous health benefits. So, if you have never learnt or have stopped cycling, it's high time to grab your bike and start cycling.
If you are physically fit, riding a bike is much easier and more fun, just like in your teenage years. You can easily ride a bicycle at any age by learning just a few basic skills and grabbing the proper cycle. Enjoy this health-building activity even if you haven't done that before in your early half-century.
Why cycling is vital after you cross your 50?
According to Harvard Health Publishing, cycling strengthens the cardiovascular system resulting in solid muscles, bones and improved endurance. Cycling also enhances your nervous system by spiking the healthy brain protein.
According to Johns Hopkins University, the bones start to weaken after 50 and breaking a bone at this age could be more catastrophic. Cycling is a low-impact exercise that causes less strain/stress on your bones.
Cycling aids faster weight loss and, in turn, keeps you fit, improves your mood and diminishes anxiety. Additionally, joining a cycling association or bike group improves mental health.
So, it's time to motivate yourself and start cycling right away. Here's how you can begin.
Choose the right bike
You are selecting the right bike for your age, size, and health. Don't compromise on quality. Explore the internet for top cycle brands in India and order one online. If you have difficulty choosing the product, go to a cycle shop nearby and explore options per your requirements.
Get a go-ahead from your doctor first, especially if you are recovering from any health condition or infection.
If you have an old bike in your basement or garage, check it with a bike mechanic before using it. Ensure your bike adheres to all the pre-inspection parameters before the ride.
Balance and strength
Ideally, the first thing you need to follow for a perfect ride is to get them on and off your bike. If you are facing problems taking your legs on and off from the cycle, try adding a few exercises that improve your balance and coordination and strengthen your lower body before you hop on to your brand-new cycle.
Single-speed Vs Multispeed cycle
It is one of the frequently asked questions amongst people from all age groups- which bicycle to buy? single-speed or multispeed?
If you are a beginner, you need a cycle which is less complicated and easy to use. Single-speed cycles are the best choice for this. These cycles require less skill and are ideal for slow-paced riders. Unlike geared cycles, these cycles are easy to maintain, service and fix.
It would be best to have good strength and hand coordination to operate gears for multispeed cycles, often known as geared cycles. If you struggle to apply breaks, you likely feel a problem riding a geared cycle.
Practice the basics
If you haven't ridden the bike for a long time or are out of practice, reacclimatize yourself with the basics and safety features first. Take the help of any family member or friend and practice in an empty area or park before stepping out on a busy road.
Start slow pedalling and practice braking.
Learn how to take turns smoothly.
Memorize and practice hand signals for making turns and stopping.
Practice shifting gears.
Perform small warming-up activity (exercise) before riding, as warming up helps to avoid injuries.
Start Slowly
After you have mastered the basics, slowly increase your ride's distance and duration. If there are separate cycling tracks, use them rather than riding on the road. Follow traffic rules strictly and be cautious while riding through intersections, bumps, rough roads, etc. Wear a helmet for additional safety. Avoid riding when it's rainy or foggy.
So, what's stopping you? Don't be scared and meet your new friend- your bicycle.
Is there a budget problem? Don't worry. Leader Cycles- the best cycle brand in India brings you affordable bicycles with the best quality, technology and infrastructure. Explore the all-new varieties of MTB and buy roadster bikes under 10,000 and get them home delivered immediately.