Tips to Not Get Tired Easily When Cycling Long Distances for Beginners
Long-distance cycling is an activity that is not commonly done by everyone, especially those who rarely exercise, even though this activity has many benefits. Easily getting tired is one of the reasons why only a handful of people engage in this activity.
However, cycling, which became popular during this pandemic, has made people who are not used to exercising decide to try cycling. Moreover, the demand to improve personal fitness so that the immune system is more resilient against viruses and bacteria has made cycling an enjoyable activity.
If you are one of the people who have just started to delve into the world of cycling during the pandemic and want to try long-distance cycling, the following tips can be applied so that you do not easily feel tired.
Regular Cycling Every Day
You can do it because it becomes a habit. This saying can indeed be applied to all aspects, including beginners who want to cycle long distances for the first time. By practicing more often every day, at least 30 minutes, it will train your breathing ability and leg pedaling so that you do not easily get tired and out of breath.
Once you feel accustomed to cycling around your neighborhood, increase the distance. Measure your own capabilities so that you do not overdo it, keeping your body in prime condition.
Choose the Right Bike
Cycling at home and long-distance cycling should certainly be differentiated. If you want to cycle long distances, perhaps by joining an event with a cycling community that organizes tours covering dozens of kilometers, you need to choose the right bike. Pay attention to the type of tires and chain because each part of the bike has a function adjusted to the distance traveled.
Wear Protective Gear
Safety riding is not only applied to those who drive motor vehicles but also to cyclists. Helmets, knee and elbow pads, and properly fitting shoes should be considered so that your body is comfortable and does not get scraped while pedaling.
By understanding how to protect yourself while cycling, you are valuing your own body. So, don't get hurt while pursuing your hobby.
Understand Basic Cycling Techniques
Not only do you need to take a test to obtain a driver's license for motor vehicles, but cycling also has basic techniques that need to be understood, you know. Especially when you want to do long-distance cycling.
Techniques such as using brakes, specifically using the front brake, are much more effective for stopping the bike's speed and are very beneficial to learn. When going around a corner, don't forget to slow down to be safer and save on braking so that the tires do not wear out quickly. If you encounter an uphill road, do not stop pedaling; instead, exert more effort so that the wheels keep turning and pedaling becomes lighter.
These techniques are very useful. Not only to maintain energy so that you do not get tired quickly, but these techniques can also enhance safety while cycling.
Maintain Food Intake
Just like when running, hiking, swimming, or jogging, cycling also requires the right intake so that you do not easily get tired. Carbohydrates are needed to keep energy levels up. However, do not eat right before cycling, as it can cause stomach pain while cycling.
Bring snacks and enough water so that when you feel hungry on the road, you can stop and eat. It can be dangerous to feel hungry and force yourself to pedal; you might faint in the middle of the road.
The tips above will be useful if applied well. However, one thing that can determine how long your energy lasts is yourself. So, don't overdo it, and when you feel tired, it's better to take a break.
