Whether you’re speeding down mountain tracks or pedalling leisurely through a nature reserve, cycling is one of the best ways of keeping fit – and of seeing the countryside! The beauty of cycling is that it can be as easy going or as strenuous as you like, but it rarely puts too much stress on your joints and ligaments.
Cycling clubs offering team trips and cycling training sessions can be found across the UK – no matter what your fitness level and experience. We can connect you with a club or cycling training specialist in your area, free of charge. Contact us to find out more about cycling training.
Cycling training – what’s your style?
There are several main types of cycling training, each offering a different experience and requiring different skills:
- Mountain biking – this is arguably the most rugged, high-impact and potentially dangerous type of cycling training. It’s also one of the most exciting and adrenaline-fuelled. Mountain cycling involves the use of solid, sturdy framed bikes with off-road tyres. Mountain cycling takes you through woods, over hills, down steep valleys and of course across mountaintops!
- Road cycling – though less hair-raising than mountain biking or trick cycling, road cycling requires no less skill and fitness. Either hybrid road bikes with thin tyres or racing bikes are used, offering little resistance and good aerodynamics for maximum cycling efficiency.
- BMX or trick cycling – this type of cycling training, which uses small-framed bikes for jumps and tricks, requires excellent balance and some courage! Experienced trick cyclists can turn their bikes in midair and even flip upside down. However, the bikes are not suited to road cycling.
How often should you cycle?
Cycling a few miles a day can keep you relatively healthy, but for maximum benefit it’s worth trying to include longer cycles a few times a week. For example, a cycling trip to the shops and back isn’t likely to work up much of a sweat. However, if you cycle 5-10 miles at a fair pace, making sure to include a few hills and steady inclines, your fitness level will increase significantly. Cycling training can help you:
- Improve your stamina and general fitness level
- Develop your leg, back and arm muscles
- Improve your balance and coordination
- Strengthen your leg muscles in particular
- See more of your local area and the countryside!
Cycling training and cycling clubs
With a cycling training club you may get to go to more interesting places than you would have alone. Cycling clubs can also help you understand the mechanics of your bike and how to take care of it - as well as offering the chance to socialise with fit and active people!
If you’re serious about cycling, we can connect you with a cycling training specialist in your area. Contact us to find out more about your cycling training options.
