Not Too Late to Get into Cycling – Start Here
Physical activity is integral to maintaining good health, even as you become more advanced in age. While you may not be able to play the same intense, impact-heavy sports you used to; there are still hobbies you can pick up to add exercise into your routine.
An enjoyable one to consider is cycling. Riding a bike allows you to spend time outside while also working out your heart, lungs, and leg muscles. Here are some basic tips for getting into cycling you can use to start today.
How's Your Technique?
Before fully committing to long, rigorous biking sessions, it is a good idea to work on your technique. That way, you will reduce the chances that you will injure yourself in the future. Spend some time cycling over short distances and reacclimating yourself to being on a bike. Know that you should gradually slow down when approaching turns rather than suddenly braking so that you do not disrupt your balance. If your bike has handlebar brakes, remember that the front brake will bring you to a halt more quickly than the rear one.
Make Sure Your Bike Fits You
After becoming more comfortable with pedaling and braking, you may want to upgrade your current bicycle or purchase one of your own if you have been using someone else's. Figure out your preferences and needs and consider the landscape of your neighborhood before settling on one.
Since you probably don't want to get too dangerous with your cycling, a lightweight road bike might make for a good choice due to its smooth feel on the pavement. However, if your area doesn't have the neatest roads and has many hills, an all-wheel-drive e-bike might be better. This will give you better traction over bumps and cracks, and the onboard motor will assist you as you pedal up challenging inclines.
Safety Measures
Safety should be a priority every time you use your bicycle, so a basic tip for getting into cycling is to take proper safety precautions. Always wear a helmet to protect yourself in the event of a fall or collision. Note that helmets lose their effectiveness over time, so if you have one that is rather old (over five years old), you should replace it with a new one.
Additionally, you should stay on top of bicycle maintenance, making sure to keep the tires at the right pressure and keeping the chain lubricated. Furthermore, never wear earbuds or headphones, as these can reduce your awareness of nearby vehicles. At present, health experts advise that you maintain social distancing and cover your face while biking as well.
Health and Bike Riding
You probably rode a bike at ten-years-old just fine. However, while the skills are the same, your physical ability may have changed as you got older. There is a good chance you are not as physically fit today as you were when you were a kid. No matter how well you take care of yourself, we all have changes in our health and body as we get older.
You might have some back problems today. Maybe you have arthritis, and your hip and knees hurt a little - or a lot. Some people suffer from more serious health issues like heart disease. While you may have some health challenges, it doesn't mean you can't ride a bike and enjoy the health benefits that come with riding.
Be sure to speak with your doctor and make sure they have no problems with your riding. With the right equipment and technique, you can enjoy the time outside with your bike in the great outdoors.
Looking at advancing to bike racing? How do you make sure you are preparing for a cycling race and will be performing to your best ability on the big day? If you are getting into cycling for fun or competition, it will help you stay healthy and active.
Health and Longevity Require Planning
Since we are all living longer take proactive steps to improve your health is a good idea. Physical activity like bike riding is one of those positive steps you can take. However, age will catch up with us no matter how fast we ride! Being proactive with planning for the financial costs and burdens of aging will help you enjoy your future or current retirement without the anxiety that often comes with getting older.
Ideally, when you are in your 40s or 50s, you should be finalizing retirement plans. One of the most important steps to take for many American families is putting an affordable Long-Term Care Insurance policy in force.
The problem with longevity is long-term care. As our health changes and hour bodies and mind decline, we need the resources to pay for future long-term health care without draining income and assets and placing stress and burden on our family. This is both a cash flow issue and a family issue. Preparing family and finances is essential to overall peace-of-mind.
Start your research by using the many tools available on LTC NEWS. Find all these resources by clicking here. The Ultimate Long-Term Care Guide is a good read to start your research.
Good luck with bike riding, and good luck with longevity.