8 New years’ resolutions cyclist like you will actually keep
8 New years’ resolutions cyclist like you will actually keep
When it comes to the start of a new year, diet and exercise are two of the most common resolutions. At the same time, ideas or plans are far less important than taking action, and for this reason, many people struggle with the prospect of following through with these resolutions.
At the same time, cyclists are a different breed and often more active than most people, so taking a bike trip is rather easy and the thought process is often the most challenging part of choosing a New Year Resolution. With this in mind, here are eight New Years’ Resolutions you will actually keep in 2018:
- Cycle to Work
Are you within a reasonable distance of the workplace? If so, cycling to work is such an excellent way to keep active and retain a positive outlook for when the time comes. That is to say; while you may not be particularly excited for work on a Monday morning, the prospect of taking a spin can act as motivation for you to rise an hour earlier every morning.
- Less Alcohol, More Gear
You may be a little late to initiate “Dry January,” but there is never a right time to refrain from alcohol to save money for something more meaningful. While the main benefit in such circumstance is obviously health related, using some extra cash to buy new cycle luggage of a bike travel bag through a bike shop online at the end of the month is usually enough to warrant any decision to take some time away from the pub.
- Join a Cycling Club
Some folk just like to be social, but the real benefit of joining a cycling club is the opportunity to meet like-minded people. Everyone knows how passionate cyclists can be about the sport and the understanding we have for taking a spin through some quiet countryside. Furthermore, joining a cycling club on a midweek spin is a great way to break up the work week and spend time in the outdoors.
- Set Weekly or Monthly Targets
While time and records are rarely the reason for which most cyclists enjoy this part-time, these are useful ways to maintain a habit. In this sense, when you set weekly or monthly targets for times or distances, this can hold you accountable and ensure you keep up with your overall resolution.
- Learn More about Mechanics
Every cyclist likes to think they have a strong grasp regarding the mechanics of a bike but in truth, most cyclists have rather limited knowledge in this respect. Aside from knowing how to fix a puncture, the mechanics of a bicycle are something you can study with a bike shop online, and whether you choose a course or purchase a guide of some kind, this can be a great way to improve your experience and learn more about the fundamentals of cycling.
- Take Midweek Microadventures
Microadventures are short, local and affordable. While this will often involve a spot of camping, the general theme of these adventures involves a concept which encourages people to get outdoors during the week. For example, there is rarely anything to stop you taking a bike trip after work during the week and taking a rewarding cycle that you would otherwise leave until the weekends.
- Start Training and Stop the Neglect
Cycling brings about a “different kind of fitness.” In fact, there are many muscles and part of the body which is neglected by cyclists, and this can lead to an imbalance in the body. Whether you choose to hit the gym or do some weight lifting at home, setting out a schedule for training can be a great habit and you can even take a bike trip to the gym.
- Forget About Time, Distance and Personal Best
As already mentioned, these are common aspects of a routine for cyclists, but at the same time, these are also distractions to some of the most enjoyable pleasures in life. In this sense, make a resolution to enjoy the journey, appreciate the surroundings and start focusing on the given moment as opposed to where you want to go. After all, life is a journey and so too is cycling.