Introduction:
Although cycling is a relatively simple way of exercising and having fun, you need to be prepared. This guide will help understand the essential gear you need for cycling, what its purpose is, and where to find it.
As well as the essentials, some optional gear and items will also help you on your journey to enjoying cycling in this brief guide, you will find out all you need to know about them.
Helmet: Safety
The second most important piece of equipment, behind your bike, is your helmet. A good helmet can protect you and your head in case of a fall or crash and prevent any damage to your skull and brain. Falling without a helmet could cause serious health issues - this is why it is so important to stay safe and wear your helmet!
A helmet doesn't have to be expensive, however, you need to know that it fulfils its purpose and will protect you. A good way to decide whether a helmet will be good enough is to do research (reading reviews and watching reviews on YouTube). A good website to find a well-priced helmet that meets safety regulations is Halfords.
Hydration and Nutrition: Staying Hydrated and Energised
Carrying a drink with you on your ride is vital. As you're cycling, you sweat, through your sweat, you lose electrolytes. Electrolytes are needed in your body so your muslces can function to the best of their ability. Bringing water on your ride, or even better - water with electrolyte tablets dissolved into it, will allow your body to replenish those lost electrolytes and help you work to your full potential. Drinking water also aids your body in lowering your body temperature during exercise, so you don't overheat.
Using electrolyte gel during your ride can also aid massively with your body replenshing its electrolytes that it loses through sweat. A combination of both hydration and electrolyte gel will help you cycle for longer and faster. A website with a range of these gels is Science in Sport.
Lights: Being Visible on the Road
Having lights and reflectors and using them at night is a legal requirement when riding your bike. They are important and legally required because they help massively in drivers and pedestrians in being able to see you.
Having lights doesn't just help others, it helps you be able to see the road and any obstacles in front of you.
Locks: Preventing theft
When leaving your bike somewhere, whether it be your house or in public, having a lock is very important. Being able to keep your bike locked in place, to prevent theft, is something that shouldn't be overlooked.
Finding a lock is easy, with places like Halfords and Screwfix having them readily available, with different ways of locking/unlocking them. Find the right lock for you.
Puncture Repair Kit/Multi-tool: Being prepared
When cycling, anything can happen - including a puncture. Althought not essential, staying prepared and having a puncture repair kit and a multi-tool is very useful. Being able to continue riding after a puncture is a gift and being prepared will help you with that. You can find puncture repair kits at a place such as Halfords.
Conclusion:
By having all of these items, you can have the smoothest cycle while maintaining the peace of mind that you are prepared for whatever may try and hinder your experience. Remember to always research a product you are thinking of buying to ensure you will be getting the most for your money.