Author: Jane Sandwood

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?

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.

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?

The first official account of surfing was noted by Captain James Cook in 1778 when he saw native Hawaiians hitting the waves. From then, surfing bloomed into a hobby and a sport that attracted millions around the world. If you’re a cyclist aiming to try your hand at surfing, you will want to know what can improve your ability to catch choice waves. You’ll be happy to know that, as a cyclist, you’re already taking part in a healthy activity that carries great benefits for surfing. So how does cycling benefit those that surf?

There is a vital link between the conditions in which you live and your health and wellbeing, yet the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that indoor air quality in many American homes is between two to five times worse than it is outside. Poor air quality is linked to a host of health conditions that can interfere with your ability and goals as a cyclist – including respiratory, cardiovascular, and allergy-related problems. It can also affect your mental health. Air quality, however, is just one aspect of home life that is related to your ability to practice and enjoy various sports like cycling.

Staying hydrated is important for overall good health lubricating joints, removing waste, delivering nutrients, and regulating temperatures. Without adequate liquids, you may become dehydrated and your body cannot operate properly. Good hydration is crucial, too when you’re cycling because it affects your performance on the saddle. Above all, it is vital to know how different beverages can influence the way you ride because not all liquids have a positive effect on your body.