Cycling. A great sport if you’re looking for something new. Almost anyone can do it-it’s just like riding a bike. Seriously. If you’re thinking about starting to cycle, whether competitively or for recreation-please, please, please buy and wear a helmet. I will admit it can be cumbersome at first but you will get used to it. And it will save your life. I’ve got a smashed one to prove it. There are so many situations you can never prepare for on a bike--like a random Rottweiler charging your front wheel. Next thing you know you’re flying over the front of the bike, then WHAM-your helmet hits the pavement--AND YOU WALK AWAY! A friend just recently flipped off his bike due to a crack in the road. A crack! He’s been a long time cyclist and was a former professional triathlete. So believe me WEAR A HELMET.
Now those are definitely extreme examples but examples nonetheless. A great site for helmets is Rudy Project USA. My favorites are the Pink/White/Silver and the green Team Jelly Belly.
The next piece of equipment you’ll need for safety is a pair of glasses. You can’t imagine how dirty you get on a bike and how easily stuff can fly into your face and eyes. Again Rudy Project USA offers some great stylish cycling glasses made especially for women and smaller faces as part of their Rudy Girl Collection. The pink Sport Mask is highly recommended. They have great coverage, they’re pink and they fit smaller faces.
There are bikes to fit your every need-road bikes, tri-bikes, cruisers, you name it. Definitely check your local bike retail store for detailed information about each type of bike as well as a custom fit and bike safety information. How to change a flat tire, what equipment (tools) you should carry with you while riding and a lesson on riding in traffic if need be. Many bike shops offer weekly rides for various fitness levels in cycling. These are a great way to meet new people and to get acquainted with your hobby.
Check back for what to wear while cycling.
