5 common cycling concerns and how to beat them
Cycling especially in busy cities can be daunting, and it’s normal to feel a bit hesitant to start. But you don’t need to let that stop you.
You might like to know that cycling can be less stressful than taking public transport or driving? No really- science has shown that positive impact associated with those who cycle or walk to work compared to those who drive or take public transport (1). Think about it- fresh air, smooth pedalling, stop-start traffic - bliss!
There might be lots of questions running around in your head from the get go. - we’ve second guessed those internal voices and compiled some responses to put you at ease and help you get on your bike.
“I feel unsafe cycling”
Cars, pedestrians and winding roads- it can be scary starting off, especially if you’re new to cycling. Of course, it’s important to do what you can to keep yourself safe, but half of it is confidence. By following these simple tips before heading off you can feel secure and minimise any risks you might be nervous about.
1. Be seen
Make sure to equip your bike with both front and lights, a bell and wear bright or reflective clothing so that other road users can see you on the road.
2. Plan your route
Planning your journey beforehand can give you much more confidence when on the road. You can make the journey by foot the first time so you can get to know the route. Here are a couple of useful journey mappers to help you:
→ The Sustrans National Cycle Network map
3. Check your equipment
It’s totally normal for things to break down now and again, but it’s always best to double check everything is working smoothly before heading off.
Go at your own pace - remember that you have as much right to be on the road as other vehicles. Never put yourself out of your comfort zone because you’re scared you are slowing others down.
Practice: Try turning, using signals, and looking behind you before you set off so that you feel confident for your first journey. Empty car parks, coldesacs, and quiet residential streets are often good places to practice.
If you’d like more tips on how to feel safer cycling, check out these tips by our friends at Bike is Best.
“I’m not fit enough to cycle”
I get it, see cyclists in Lycra zipping down the street not a leg hair of resistance in sight. Remember that everyone has different levels of fitness, and that shouldn’t restrict you from starting. Building fitness is a gradual process and cycling has been shown to be great for improving your overall health and mental well being. It can be easy to compare yourself to others on the road, but remember these key things…
Slow and steady wins the race- There’s no pressure to be fast- don’t let other road users pressure you. One of the great things about cycling is that you can enjoy your commute instead of considering travel as lost time out of your day. If this means allowing a bit of extra time so that you can take your time then allow it!
Fitness is a gradual process- there is no shame in taking breaks, even if that means getting off and pushing your bike up the hill.
Break up your week and cycle just once or twice a week if you can.
Cycle part of your journey - Bring your bike on the train for part of the journey. You might want to check that this does not clash with transport restrictions beforehand gives you options. If you cycle along the bus route you can make the cycle as long as you want it to be - make sure to always have a bike lock with you so that you can lock up your bike wherever you need.
“It’s too far”
It’s completely understandable that some commutes are just simply too far away. But before you throw the hypothetical bicycle out of the window, how about considering these options?
Cycle part of your journey -Bring your bike on the train for part of the journey. You might want to check that this does not clash with transport restrictions beforehand.
Consider an E-Bike - then you can go much further with the energy you have
Train there, bike back. If getting to work in the morning by bike means waking up earlier than you’d like, you could save the cycle for a relaxed evening ride. Could you take your bike with you on your way to work? Otherwise, if you live in a city with a bike-rent scheme, it might be possible to pick up a bike outside your workplace and leave it near your home.
“I don’t want to turn up to work all sweaty”
This is a perfectly reasonable concern to have, because frankly no one wants to rock up to work looking like an absolute hot mess do they? If your destination does not have shower facilities, this can really reinforce the anxiety surrounding cycling. If like me you’re in it for the long haul- here are a few tips to help you beat the drip.
Be prepared - bring a change of clothes and freshening products- towel, deodorant, water
Carry your items in a pannier bag which can be attached to your bike (so you don’t get that backpack sweat)
Allow enough time to travel (it's not the velodrome)
“Do I have to wear spandex?”
No...(Unless you want to be super aero)
