Biking for Beginners: how to conquer the fear of cycling

As we all know, outdoor cycling or biking is one of the best cardiovascular exercises for it doesn’t strain or put too much pressure on the joints. Nowadays, the bicycle has become one of the most numerous vehicles on the roads, a major means of everyday mobility in many cities as it is a healthy, inexpensive and environmentally friendly way to commute and get around. However, there are still many people who appear remarkably reluctant to get on their bikes. Why? Fear! The fear is their biggest deterrent. Are you one of them who have been held back fear？Do you want to conquer the fear and get on a bike? Then you have come to the right place. Here I will give you a few tips to conquer the fear and drop your bike demons for good if you want to begin cycling for sports, commuting and recreation purposes.how to conquer the fear of cycling

1.Fear of no bike can hold you

Have you ever thought that there was no bike that can hold you? Then you are totally wrong. In fact, some people don’t feel confident to get on a bike anymore just because they have gained weight. They worry about that the bike can’t carry their weight or may be uncomfortable to ride and some people even stare at a heavy person riding a bike. All in all, this problem coming from the lack of confidence in themselves and the bikes they ride.

How to conquer?

In fact, the problem is not a real problem. Just believe in yourself. Even if you are a heavier rider, just go out and get on a bike. There are plenty of bike shops that can help you to choose the bicycle that fits you. No matter you are an average sized rider or a heavier rider who want to bike for sports, commuting, losing weight or recreation purpose, there are always shoppers or pros who can give you professional suggestions, so there is no need to worry about it. Besides, pedaling will not wreck your ankles and keep you healthy when the seat is high enough and set right. So what are you waiting for ？Why not get a bike right now?

2. Fear of traffic

The nuts traffic and the proximity of the pathe fear of riding in trafficssing cars which weigh 3000 pounds and are often piloted by people on cell phones is usually the first barrier to getting on a bike for beginners. In fact, no matter you are beginners or experienced rider, riding in traffic is incredibly intimidating. As Applegate puts it, being afraid of riding in traffic is reasonable. Finding the quietest route is not always possible. However, it’s possible to conquer the fear of riding in traffic with experience and time and taking some precautions can help you stay safe and feel relaxed.

How to conquer?

-obey traffic laws

It’s of great importance to obey traffic laws when riding a bike on the road. You must avoid distractions and watch out for all streets and road signs and signals. Riding predictably is an important skill to keep you safe in the flow of traffic. Pay attention not to getting squeezed off the road or into cars. Try to hold a straight line. If you have to turn right or turn left, remember to use hand signals. Talking to and riding with experienced riders is a good way to learn and master road rules.

-See and be seen

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for dangerous situations, such as blind intersections and door zones. If you plan to ride at night, reflective gears and lights are of great importance. “clothing needs to be light, tight and bright”, says the Camwest Bicycle User Group. You should make sure you can be seen and prepare for those drivers and pedestrians who don’t see you. Besides, I don’t think wearing headphones or listen to music is a good idea when riding a bike because you will be not able to hear oncoming cars, other riders, people, opening car doors, dogs and so on. Use a bell or just give a whistle to alert vehicles and other riders

-own your road & take the lane

Owning your road may be one of the difficult things to do for beginners to ride in traffic. If the city you are in has a lot of bike lanes, then you are very lucky. However, no matter how many bike lanes, you will be riding in traffic some of the time. In the absence of bike lane, you should ride as far to the right as practicable. Riding your lane has many benefits, such as discouraging motorists from passing you in an unsafe manner, forcing them to give you more space and leaving enough room for you to maneuver in case of an unexpected obstacle like a jaywalker or car door.

2.Fear of getting dropped

Some people said that they are afraid of getting dropped just because they worry about getting lost or other people will think they suck. But in fact, it arises from the ego and you can rationalize yourself through it.

How to conquer?

before you start to ride, think about what you will do when you do get dropped. Will you turn back home or will you finish the rest route? If you are riding somewhere unfamiliar, you can have a map or cycling GPS to prevent you from getting lost. Having a plan will definitely help you a lot for it can make it at ease. Remember to eat and drink to conserve energy. Stay as relaxed as possible and your positive attitude will make a difference.

3.Fear of being alone

Some people fear to get on a bike just because there is no friend riding with them. They will feel unsafe and don’t know what to do in many cases without others accompanied them.riding with friends

How to conquer?

these days there is at least one person who rides on roads and they can be your friends. Cycling friends are a good resource for they can give you many information and tips on your riding and take you out for a happy riding. Besides, there are many cycling groups and clubs that you can join to meet more experienced cyclists and build up a group of like-minded riders. Riding with friends who can show you the bike-friendly routes and guide you through the experience is really a good choice for beginners.

Conclusion

Conquering one’s fear is not easy and it takes plenty of your time to make it, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor. Once you conquer the fear and start to ride, you will find that cycling is highly addictive.