Start cycling this spring
Even if you’ve never put your foot on a pedal before, the best time to start is right now! We have some tips from our instructors on how to get going.
April 16, 2024
Even if you’ve never put your foot on a pedal before, the best time to start is right now! We have some top tips from our instructors on how to get going.
It’s not about the gear
How do you start if you don’t have a cycle, or the ‘right’ stuff? There are so many options out there, and it can get pricey very quickly! That doesn’t have to be the case though, as there are cheaper options.
“Don’t get hung up on the gear. My normal everyday clothes are my cycling clothes and all three of my bikes are either second hand or freebies that other people are chucking out.” David Staddon, Bikeability instructor
As well as secondhand options, you could also try a bike hire scheme like those powered by Beryl. These give you the option to try cycling for a short journey or a day out, ideal if you aren’t sure you fancy getting back in the saddle!
If you do decide to shell out on a brand new cycle, Decathlon has a buy back scheme, which offers discounts on new sporting equipment – perfect if you have old gear you can trade in!
Don’t go it alone
Cycling with others can make it a lot more fun and give you a good reason to get out there. Finding friends who want to start cycling is a good place to start.
“Join some led rides, some group rides, social rides […] reach out to friends as well.” Naida Jabar, Bikeability instructor
We all know exercise is important for our overall wellbeing, but sometimes it can be a struggle to fit it in. Combining it with socialising can make it a lot easier to find the time.
You might be surprised as well just how many people you know would like to get out there and go for a ride.
“Find some friends who are in a similar situation and want to get out a bit more on their bikes.” Emily Groves, Bikeability instructor
Sharing your cycle route with someone else also makes it feel a lot less like a slog.
There aren’t many forms of exercise you can combine with good conversation, but cycling is one of them!
“Try and find someone to go with, because it’s always fun. Time and distance fly by when you’re having a chat with someone.” David Staddon, Bikeability instructor
Join a group or get some training
Don’t be daunted by cycling groups or clubs – there’s something out there for everyone.
“Join a local group, people are put off by joining teams, but there’s always every level within most cycling groups.” Emily Groves, Bikeability instructor
Even if you’ve got no clue what your average speed is, you can find the right group for you. Whether you want to build up your speed and stamina, or just find a likeminded group to socialise with, there are groups and clubs for you.
We have some top tips on finding the right club or group here.
“There are lots of cycling activities, events, training, and cycle clubs dotted around the country. Finding the right thing to help you on your journey is just a matter of searching the web and seeing what’s available in your local area.” Emma McLoughlin, Bikeability instructor
What if you’ve never cycled before? That needn’t be a barrier either. Instructor Naida was in her 40s when she learnt to cycle, having never been on a cycle before!
She took part in Bikeability training, which gave her the confidence to start cycling regularly. She now leads rides, as well as teaching others how to cycle safely.
“I would definitely recommend getting yourself booked on sessions with your local Bikeability provider, it’s never too late!” Naida Jabar, Bikeability instructor
If you’re starting from scratch, or if you or your family need help feeling more confident, cycle training is key. You can find your cycle training in your local area here.
Motivation is key
Once you’ve made a start, keeping going is the next hurdle. If you’ve joined a group or started cycling with friends, they can help you get out the door and onto your cycle.
.
“Every event we go to there’s more people you meet, more friends you make which helps their motivation rub off on you.” Naida Jabar, Bikeability instructor
Finding friends who want to get out and cycle might seem impossible, but there are lots of people who would love to combine socialising with a bit of exercise. It’s also a great way to get to know people better and motivate each other.
You’re more likely to stick to plans if you’ve got someone else relying on you to turn up. Or make the plans in the first place!
“Sometimes you need someone else to be going ‘are we going out then?’” Emily Groves, Bikeability instructor
Cycling with family can also be a great way to make sure you’re motivated. If your kids have completed their Bikeability training, get them to show you how it’s done!
Not only will you learn great tips from them, it also helps them to make sure they don’t forget!
“The family training was because there were quite a few of the kids who I’d been teaching throughout the year […] what was cool about that was the kids I’d been teaching were literally showing their mum and dad how to ride the bike correctly.” Perry Sambridge, Bikeability instructor
Whether you’re new to cycling or just a bit rusty, trying out some of these tips could help you get back out there in no time!
Find more top tips and meet some of our brilliant Bikeability instructors in our blogs.
