Why You Should Go on a Cycling Holiday?
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Have you been deliberating about joining a cycling holiday but still dragging your feet?
In this post, we’re sharing plenty of useful information and insights on the abundance of benefits of going on a cycling-focused trip so that you’ll be ready to take the leap of faith and pack your bags today!
Before we break down the top reasons why you should go on a cycling holiday, it may be beneficial for you to understand the reasons one should take up cycling as an activity, or even a hobby.
It should come as no surprise that a sedentary lifestyle can increase the likelihood of ailments. Hence, in order to live a truly healthy life, it’s crucial to stay physically active. If you happen to be looking for an easy, low-impact yet effective aerobic exercise to maintain a good level of health and fitness, cycling may just be what the doctor ordered.
Cycling: The Benefits
If you’re still a tad skeptical about whether cycling would be an ideal fit, allow us to share some great reasons that may just banish your doubts once and for all. For starters, it would only take 2 to 4 hours per week for you to improve your overall health. Need more convincing? Here’s a list of some of the top positive effects of regular fcycling routine can have on your body, mind, and soul:
- It increases stamina and cardiovascular fitness
- It promotes weight loss
- It improves the mobility of joints
- It strengthens bones
- It increases muscle strength as well as flexibility
- It helps to improve posture and coordination
- It increases level of energy and reduces fatigue
- It reduces the likelihood of anxiety and depression
- It enhances the ability to focus
Image credit: Indoorcyclingbenefits.com
The Basics: How to Choose the Right Bike & Equipment
Now that you’ve taken the leap of faith and are ready to start cycling, you are probably wondering what type of bike (and equipment) you should set your eyes on as a beginner cyclist. With a wide array of bicycles to choose from, narrowing down the selection can prove to be overwhelming. Below are a couple of questions that will help you find one that best fits your needs and preference:
- What type of activity or activities will you be using your bike for?
- What is your ideal bike frame size?
- How much are you willing to spend?
Types of Bicycles
This may sound pretty straightforward but one of the very first things you need to know for sure before purchasing a bike is what type of activities you’ll most likely use your bike for. Begin by asking yourself the main reasons why you want to start cycling.
For example, if you’re an adrenaline junkie and are looking to go on an off-the-beaten path biking adventure, you probably want to stay steer clear of cruisers. Alternatively, those who are looking to use their bike for casual strolls rather than a way to commute, may not find city bikes to be quite the right fit.
An overview of the range of bicycles sold in general retailers (grouped by type of activities it’s made for):
- City/Road bikes – Ideal for commuting in the city (urban friendly). It is made for smooth, paved roads and is built for speed. Their tires are usually narrow and equipped with drop handlebars.
- Mountain bikes – Made specifically for off-road adventures. If you are planning to go mountain biking often, suspension for increased shock absorption is highly recommended. Unlike city bikes, mountain bikes have larger ‘knobby’ tires for traction and extra comfort, flat bars for better control, and low gears that provide assistance when climbing hills.
- Hybrid bikes – A combination of the city and the mountain bike, these hybrid bikes are perfect for those who are looking to utilize their bike for both commuting and off-road biking. That said, keep in mind that due to its dual purpose, it may not be as built for speed as a city bike and not built as rugged as ‘pure’ mountain bikes.
- Cruiser bikes – Are you looking for bikes that are built for comfort and ideal for strolling around at the park or around your neighborhood? If the answer is “yes!”, then cruiser bikes are up your alley. They usually have wide, balloon-like tires and upright handlebars. Most have either a single-speed or 3-speed setting.
- Comfort bikes – Equipped with softer saddles, lower-positioned gears, and a more upright riding position, cruisers can also fall under the specialized mountain or hybrid bikes
Image credit: Sacredrides.com
There are many other types of bicycles available in the market other than the ones I have listed above. However, these five represent those that are most suitable for beginners. Looking for a more comprehensive list? Check out this helpful visual list of bicycle types.
The Essentials: Gears for Beginners
Think a bike is the only thing you’ll need to begin cycling? Think again! If you want to stay safe and start cycling off on the right foot, you’ll also be needing these basic yet necessary accessories:
- A quality helmet – Whether you’re planning to do a bit of mountain biking or cruising along the boardwalk, it’s truly better to be safe than sorry! A helmet is, hands down, the most important biking accessory you’ll ever purchase. While there’s no need to purchase a top-of-the-line cycling helmet that may run you upwards of USD 250, be sure that you choose a quality helmet (usually comes with a price tag of USD 30 – 75) that is adjustable and will adequately protect your head in case of accidents. Do not buy a used helmet! Also, keep in mind to replace your helmet after 3 years as the foam would likely have deteriorated and would not be so effective.
- A multi-tool – As a cyclist, I can attest that a simple V5-tool definitely comes in handy. No matter how careful you are with your bike, a quick repair is inevitably needed. Small enough to put in your pocket or bike’s saddle bag, it’s perfect for adjusting your handlebar or saddle on the fly. Alternatively, if you’d like to purchase a full repair kit, it will also come in handy as a complete kit would usually include tire levers, a pump, a saddle bag, and a glueless patch in addition to a multi-tool.
- Lights & reflectors – While some bikes come with built-in lights and reflectors, should the one you selected not include them, it’s highly recommended that you purchase them too! These are especially helpful if you plan to ride your bike during the night often.
- A lock – Whether you’re planning to go riding in bike trails or in the city, you want to minimize the chances of your bike getting stolen – having a sturdy bike lock or lock chain will do the trick. Be sure to lock your bike through the frame and not through the wheels.
Image credit: Eta.co.uk
Got your eyes set on mountain biking? As you may already know, you’ll need more equipment than if you plan to merely commute or cruise with your bike. Here’s a list of must-have mountain biking gear for beginners you should consider investing in!
The Benefits of Going on a Cycling Holiday
Cycling holidays offer a gateway to a world brimming with extraordinary benefits beyond mere sightseeing. Imagine going on a cycling trip with your closest family and friends, where you can get away from the daily grind while enjoying the beauty of nature.
There are numerous ways to experience a cycling vacation, either you bring your bike or take public transportation, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning countryside views and stop at quaint villages, and have ample time to relax, unwind, and savor the beauty of your surroundings at your own pace.
If you’re seeking to join a group, traveling by bike provides a unique feeling of friendship within the cycling community that cannot be found elsewhere.
Image credit: Shawna Beaudet
This excursion also presents the perfect opportunity to brush up on your language skills, and with self-guided tours or organized tours, you can arrange your cycling holiday exactly how you want it. For example, you can choose to, spend extra time visiting historic sites or wining and dining at the local vineyards.
Furthermore, as you’ll be spending a lot of time on the bike, your body will likely produce and release extra endorphins, which are known to improve emotions. It’s a fantastic way to lower stress and lift your mood in general.
With all of these great benefits to gain, it’s no surprise that cycling holidays have been increasing in popularity across the globe. Isn’t it about time that you try it firsthand?
Ready to embark on your very first cycling adventure? Browse through, find, and book the perfect trip from a wide selection of cycling holidays at Tripaneer.com!