30 Jul Ready to Break Out Your Bike? 4 Steps for Safe Cycling

The pandemic (and weeks/months spent in quarantine) have had an interesting result on the fitness industry. As bored people, sick of staying inside, have begun new exercise routines, bicycles are seeing a huge surge in popularity. Although knowing how to ride a bike may be…just like riding a bike…although you remember the basics, there are important steps to take to ensure that your new hobby doesn’t leave you back on the couch. 

Tips for Safe Cycling

• Have a Bike Fitting. What running shoe stores are to runners, so bike stores are to cyclists. If you’re in the market for a bike, it’s important to make sure that you find the right one – and the right fit – for you. A bike fitting will help ensure a proper fit with things like: size, saddle type, shoes (if necessary), your cycling position, and more.

• Take it Easy. Enthusiasm and enjoyment can keep you motivated, but if you overdo it, can help lead to injury. Overuse injuries are common, especially during the warmer months. The pandemic has led to more people than usual walking, running, hiking, biking, and more – and a spike in searches for common overuse injuries. When building up your cycling activity, start slow and work your way up to longer, more adventurous routes.

• Take Bike Safety Seriously. If you plan to ride on the road, be sure you follow traffic rules and stay in bike lanes, where possible. Bike with friends when you can (for fun, and visibility), and always wear a helmet! If you prefer to take your bike off-road, consider bringing along a first-aid kit and have your phone available in an emergency.

• Don’t Push Through Pain. If you notice pain or discomfort during a ride, don’t stick it out hoping you’ll feel better. Pain that persists or worsens is a warning sign: head back home and rest the afflicted area. If you continue having pain with movement, pain at rest, and/or pain that affects your sleep, make an appointment with your physical therapist for an assessment.

Getting out for a ride is a great way to experience the outdoors, get some exercise, and even enjoy a safely-distanced time with friends. Taking precautions to bike safely, with the right gear, and within your limits will help keep you on the road.

If you’re having trouble with your bike rides, pain with activity, or other problems of the musculoskeletal system, Body One Physical Therapy is only a call or click away. We’re locally-owned and operated, with three convenient locations serving Central Indiana: North Indianapolis/Carmel, Fishers, and Zionsville. If you’re ready to ride, we’re ready to get you rolling: call or schedule an appointment today!