
Cycling has long been a much-loved activity. An intensive sport or a fun-filled pastime, people of all kinds and ages enjoy hitting the pedals.
During the first bouts of the pandemic, more people took up cycling and greatly enjoyed the hobby. However, as the seasons change, so too do the conditions for cycling. While the sport is not as weather dependent as many others, some people may be put off by the idea of cycling when winter arrives.
If you enjoy cycling, then your passion needs to supersede the weather wherever possible. It is essential to adapt here, and fortunately, there are many ways to do so. If you need some ideas to keep your cycling routine going during the colder months, read on.
Be Aware of the Hazards
It is possible to cycle in wet and colder weather. That said, you should do as much preparation as you can so that you can anticipate hazards and fine-tune your approach.
Reading Velosurance’s guidance on riding a bike in snow and slush can help you significantly here. They recommend using lighting equipment, and they also detail accessories that can protect you against harsher weathers. Moreover, their insurance offerings can give you much peace of mind here, accounting for the loss or damage of your bike.
In the end, there are many safeguards to have in place, and experts can give you guidance and resources to make sure you are suitably equipped. There is no advantage to leaving any stones unturned here. Do not underestimate mother nature, but at the same time, do not be overly fearful of it either – especially if you have the right equipment and insurance at your disposal.
Try to keep educating yourself, too and occasionally refresh your knowledge. Your awareness of winter cycling hazards needs to be acute rather than fleeting trivia. Keep learning until the information is second nature to you, and then feel more confident cycling during the winter months.
Anticipate Energy Use
You may exert more energy cycling in the winter. Anticipating this is advisable.
For instance, cycling through patches of sludge may give you a greater workout. Your body may also use more energy to keep your core warm once you are outside in the cold.
Consider taking more snacks and drinks with you as you cycle. While you should stop on your journey as little as possible, you should listen to your body more acutely during winter and take breaks when needed.
Consider a Peloton Bicycle
Depending on where you live in the U.S., your state may be prone to very intense winter weather. Nobody should be out in a chaotic blizzard for the sake of exercise.
In these incidents, a peloton bicycle may be an apt solution. Joggers have treadmills, and cyclists have peloton bicycles to exercise indoors in a stationary position. These machines also come with enhanced learning features, connecting you to live workouts. That way, you can receive instructions and guidance as you pedal.
However, things are not all rosy here. Only a few months ago, it was reported that hackers were able to breach the software of peloton bikes and spy on its users and control the machines remotely. While a patch has been released, there is always an element of risk involved when it comes to technology.
It is still better to cycle outdoors where possible. The fresh air counts for a lot, as does the stimulation of exploring and being outdoors. You may never be able to rely on a peloton bicycle wholly, but they can be a useful backup plan if the bleak winter weather risks stalling your cycling schedule.
Cycle with Someone
Despite the presence of events like Christmas and New Years Eve, winter can still be an exceedingly bleak time for many. Gloomy weather and shorter days and nights can take their toll.
Last year, season affective disorder was rampant, causing destress among many. Of course, people have long been suffering from their mental well-being already due to the pandemic, so additional stress and pressures are firmly unwelcoming.
Cycling with a friend or family member may be enough to bring some extra cheer to the occasion. While you may not be able to chat much as you peddle, you could always stop off somewhere on your journey and rest together. It can be a great bonding exercise, which could make your dark winter days a little bit brighter.
It could also be a matter of safety, too. Accidents can still happen regardless of the weather, but slippy and dark conditions may make these incidents more challenging to deal with. Having some extra backup might give you additional assurances.
Try not to let season affective disorder impact your motivation for cycling. The mental and physical health benefits here are plentiful, so consistency is vital. You may wake up not feeling ready to cycle, but if a friend or family member texts to ask if you are joining them, it could give you that extra push. Motivate each other as you go.