Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by Dr Helen Flaherty, Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK

Get cycling this Summer

Regular physical activity will help you to maintain a healthy weight and keep your heart healthy. Cycling is a fun way to improve your overall health and wellbeing as well as enabling you to get out and explore your local area. We define best kids bike as one that is comfortable and safe for children or adults to ride. These are some tips to get you started with cycling this summer.

If you currently don’t own a bike…

You can check whether your employer offers a Cycle to Work scheme as this can make buying a bike more affordable. Travelling around by bike may help you to make savings on travel costs. If you don’t have access to a cycle to work scheme, you could check out the deals available from your local bike shop or look out for a cheap second hand bike. You can get advice online or at your local bike shop about which bike is most suitable for you and what extra equipment you might need. If you are unsure whether cycling is for you, why not find out whether you can hire a bike in your local area to try it out first.

Electric or pedal?

Pedal bikes are undoubtedly cheaper, but electric bikes are perfect for getting to work without working up a sweat. If you want a bike that will keep you fit or you’re on a budget, get a normal pedal bike. If you need to go longer distances or uphill, an electric bike might be better. Both have their pros and cons, so head to a site like WeAreTheCyclists.com to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of each if your head is in a spin.

Start off small

Don’t try to do too much too soon. If you try to cycle for too long the first time you go out, you may get fatigued or injured and this may put you off continuing. Build up gradually, starting with a short cycle on fairly flat ground, building up to longer and more challenging cycles slowly. Make sure you allow yourself adequate recovery time in between cycles.

Fuel and fluid

As you build up to longer rides as you get fitter, you should always remember to take food and a drink on your bike rides. A snack, such as a banana or a cereal bar, and a bottle of water strapped to your bike frame will help to keep you going for longer.

You can find plenty more healthy tips and recipes at heartresearch.org.uk