Jane Sandwood has been a freelance writer and editor for over 10 years. Her main interest is exploring how people can improve their health and wellbeing in their everyday life. When she isn't writing, Jane can often be found with her nose in a good book, at the gym, or just spending quality time with her family.
The 111th Tour de France is about to feature some key changes as the iconic cycling race will start in Florence, Italy on June 29th and will end for the first time ever in Nice on July 21st. Traditionally, the race finishes on The Champs-Elysee, but due to the Olympic and Paralympic Games taking place in Paris, it was decided that the finish line for this year’s race will be at the Cote d’Azur, also known as The French Riviera.
For cyclists just starting to get out onto the road, there’s good news for long-term health and injury outlooks. According to a study published by the Journal of Orthopaedic Research, injury rates are declining, including those ailments that arise from the act of cycling itself, rather than road traffic accidents. This is a reflection of improved medical care, improved knowledge, better training methods, and improved nutrition. All of this might not be obvious to the new cyclists, however. One principle above all others can help in avoiding injury and, in turn, promoting growth – and that’s embracing the rest day. There are many factors as to why rest days are effective and, therefore, essential, and it starts with sleep.
Carbohydrates are perhaps the most controversial of all three major food groups – and not just because of their calorie content. As a cyclist, you’re probably very familiar with the term “carbo-loading.” This means filling up on carbohydrate-dense foods such as pasta or bread to maximize the storage of glycogen in the body, allowing for increased endurance. However, recent studies have shed a different light on this food group, naming complex carbohydrates as a lighter yet equally impactful driver of athletic energy. So, what exactly are they, and how can cyclists use them to enhance their performance in the saddle?
Minerals and vitamins aren’t optional if you’re serious about improving your cycling performance. The appropriate proportions of these micro-nutrients can give you more energy, quicker recovery times, and increased endurance. They’re essential for energy production and muscle recovery. Supplement use contributes significantly to total vitamin and mineral intakes in the general population. According to studies, 7 out of 10 cyclists consume more vitamins and minerals via supplements than from diets. As a result, supplement use decreases a fraction of the general population with low nutrient consumption. Here are the five essential vitamins and minerals that cyclists need.
Cycling has an incredibly low carbon footprint – just 21 grams of CO2 per km, which is less than walking or catching public transport and just one-tenth of the carbon footprint of driving. Despite the big contribution cyclists are making to a greener world, global warming continues to be a pressing problem, with NOAA’s 2020 Annual Climate Report showing that seven out of the 10 hottest years have occurred since 2014. The statistics indicate that everyone – including cyclists – can do their share to reduce their carbon footprint. Tires are arguably one of the least eco-friendly components of bikes but is it possible that they will soon be a whole lot ‘greener’?
Pilates is one of the hottest exercise trends of 2021. Not only is it popular in the US, but it’s also a certified hit in Europe as recent data predicts that the Pilates studios market in the continent will generate almost $50 billion by 2027. The majority of individuals have heard of Pilates, but are uncertain what it entails. In a nutshell, Pilates is a set of exercises performed with specialized equipment to develop flexibility, physical strength, and posture, as well as mental awareness.
Similar to cycling, the exercises need a great deal of precision and control, with a significant emphasis on technique. Some athletes and dancers have added Pilates to their fitness routines as it helps to enhance their performance, and cyclists may do well to incorporate this type of workout into their exercise routine. If you’re a cyclist who wants to shake up your fitness routine, consider Pilates and see how it can boost your performance.
On a global scale, the average time spent sitting down is 4.7 hours each day, according to the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. Sitting down for too long every day has been linked to health issues. If you’re a cyclist who has a sedentary job, it’s important that you find what else can benefit you. But you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that cycling is a good antidote to the negative health consequences of sitting. So just how can it improve the effects of your sedentary job?
Post-Covid years are predicted to be the years of sustainable breaks, and not only will more people be traveling locally, but we’ll also embark on more outdoor adventures such as cycling holidays. Cycling is one of the healthiest ways to travel: not only does it enable you to get a good workout, but it’s also good for the environment. Moreover, it’s a great family activity that enables you to reconnect with nature. If you’re planning to go on an outdoor adventure that won’t break the bank, consider going on a sustainable biking holiday with your loved ones. Here’s a guide to planning an eco-friendly cycling adventure with your family.
Going on a bike ride is one of the best ways to have a speedy commute to work. Moreover, it’s a great way to get some exercise into your daily routine and live a healthier and longer life. But let’s face it, just a few minutes of wearing a helmet can wreak havoc with your hair, and cycling, especially on a hot and humid day, can leave you feeling less than fresh and presentable. But you don’t have to give up your bike rides to look great. With a few tricks, you can look your best even after cycling. Here are a few smart hacks to prevent helmet hair and look great after a bike ride.
Demand for commuter and fitness bikes rose by 66% in March 2020, with many cycle stores struggling to meet the demand. Some cities, including New York, opened the roads to cyclists as a result, and many leisure cyclists are now using their bicycles to commute to work and travel around the city. Keeping safe while cycling on the road might involve learning tips for cycling at night, or it could involve learning the rules of the road if you don’t drive. This may lead you to question whether you should cycle on roads under the influence. Cycling under the influence of alcohol laws are hazy in some states, so: should you drink and cycle?
