Weight Loss Tips for Cycling

Cycling is a good form of exercise if you wish to lose weight. Aside from the benefit of losing weight from cycling it is also an enjoyable form of exercise. You can lose weight and take in the view of the landscape as you cycle. It is not like the other forms of exercise that leaves you stuck in the gym huffing and puffing. Cycling gives you the freedom to roam wherever your bike takes you and still lose weight. Exercise does not have to be boring and tedious at all, it can be fun and exciting.

Wear Protective Gear

• When cycling it is crucial to wear the proper protective gear at all times. No matter how smooth the road is, you must still wear protective gear. You will never know when an accident might happen. In any situation, it is always good to be prepared.

  To protect yourself when cycling, you will need a helmet, knee pads and shin guards. You may do away with the shin guards if it is too heavy and bulky for you. But if you are going off-road, shin guards are a must. The helmet is the most important protective gear when cycling. It protects your head in case you fall off your bike. If you fall off with your head unprotected, it can cause serious head injuries which may be fatal in some cases. It is wise to protect yourself at all times even if you are just going for a ride around the park.

Start by Stretching

• To avoid injuring yourself, it is important to stretch before cycling. Do a series of stretches before hopping on your bike. It will save you from a lot of body aches and pains later on. Not stretching before cycling can also cause physical injuries. Some of your muscles may get too strained and give out. Stretching gives the muscles a chance to warm up before cycling.

  The body parts that need to be stretched are the neck and shoulders because cycling can be very hard on these parts of the body. The knees and hamstrings also need to be stretched to help you with your balance. The other parts of the body that also need to be stretched are the calves, thighs, shoulders and back. It may take time to stretch but it will be all worth the trouble later.

Managed Pace

• When cycling it is advisable to start slowly at first so that you do not put too much strain on your body. As your body adjusts, you can increase your pace. Base the rate of your speed on how much your body can take. It is not good to overwork your body. You can pass out from too much exertion which can be dangerous if you are cycling alone.

  For maximum weight loss, alternate your distance and intensity. Start at a slow speed and then gradually increase it. After you have reached your desired heart rate, you again decrease your speed. Repeat a couple of times until it's time for you to stop. Also alternate the distance that you cycle. You can go on a shorter cycling distance today and then a longer one the day after. Be sure to keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water when cycling.