Being a cyclist is one of the best hobbies out there, isn’t it? You don’t have to pay for fuel, no traffic jams, just pure freedom and beautiful nature around you. The pleasure of feeling the gentle wind on your face after a long workday is second to none.

However, to enjoy the art of cycling there are a few important things to keep in mind. As a new cyclist, you are likely to start your cycling journey unprepared. This might ruin the beneficial and fantastic effect cycling can have on you. You don’t want to quit after the first ride, do you? That is why we have chosen some of the most important steps to get you in the world of cycling the right way.

 

 

Let’s start with your clothing. You don’t go to the gym with heavy boots, tight jeans, and a jacket, right? The same is true here. Choose light and comfortable clothes. There is a great variety of cycling clothes out there in many colors and fabrics, with different prices of course.

Padded cycling shorts are a game-changer. They can help you avoid your backside hurting and will make you feel more comfortable on the bike.

Do not forget to get a cycling helmet, too. This thing might save your life. It’s not hard to find a comfortable, light, and affordable one these days.

Clipless pedals are also an important thing if you are going to take your hobby seriously. They will make a massive difference to your pedaling efficiency.

To finish your professional cyclist look, you should get sunglasses as well. They will protect you from bugs, sand, the bright sun, and other unpleasant things that might ruin your ride.

 

 

After you are ready with your outfit it’s time to check your machine.

To begin with, clean and oil your chain. That way you avoid those ‘creaks’, that every cyclist hates. Moreover, expensive parts such as chainrings won’t wear out as quickly.

Also, check your tire pressure. Usually recommended levels are displayed on the sidewall of your tires. However, you can improvise and find the right pressure for you.

It would be great if you know how to fix a puncture. It’s awful when you are away from home and hear the hissing sound leading to a flat tire. That is the ability to repair or replace your tire is essential. Don’t forget to take a small repair kit with you!

 

 

Let’s be honest. You won’t feel like riding after eating a large, cheesy pizza and drinking a pint of cold beer. That is why it’s important to choose your fuel wisely.

The first thing you should do is to stay hydrated. Make sure you take a bottle of water with you.

To avoid running out of fuel and extreme levels of exhaustion, have some light food. Consuming around 100-250 calories every 30 minutes would help with this. Great snacks for cyclists are bananas, cereal bars, and energy gels, for example.

How about the post-ride fuel? The key to proper recovery after a long ride is protein. If you aren’t going to have a daily meal, or you just don’t have time to prepare one, a quick smoothie will do, too.

 

Now that you know these 3 things, you can prepare correctly for your ride. Go out there and enjoy the beautiful nature and fresh air. Explore the world while having some healthy and relaxing exercise.