It’s Never Too Late To Start Biking!

No matter how old you are, whatever your fitness level may be, or the list of aches and pains, you can enjoy the fun, adventure, and health benefits that biking can bring. Whether you haven’t ridden for years, or want to ride more regularly to get a little fitter, here’s what you need to know to get started.

Cycling is ideal as it puts very little impact on your joints, and is therefore kind to your body. Even if you have pain walking, you can still ride a bike, because it isn’t weight bearing. In fact, most people find that they’re able to cycle comfortably well into their 70s and 80s.

Cycling is a great way to increase your activity when you’re out of shape too, as you can go further right at the start than you would walking or running. This sneaky bonus boosts your confidence and makes you much more likely to stick with it.

Cycling is a great lower-body toner, improves co-ordination, and is an excellent calorie burner. Even moderate cycling burns around 500 calories in 60 minutes. The key is to start small and build up to more challenging routes as you become comfortable, confident and technically able.

New technology means bikes are much lighter, climb hills with ease and have a longer life span. Even if you haven’t cycled in years, Electric Bikes can make up for lack of strength or stamina, enabling you to keep pedaling without worrying if you’ll have enough energy to cycle back.

Cycling is a great way to stay active as you get older, with Cycling Clubs offering information on how to ride and improve skills, and you’ll meet like-minded cyclists to ride with. Just like taking the training wheels off all over again, begin by practicing the basics of starting, stopping, shifting gears, and turning.

Whether you’re looking for a road bike, touring bike or mountain bike, make sure you choose your bike wisely. Go to a smaller local bike shop where they will be more knowledgeable about bike selection and proper fit, and help you whittle down choices by considering where you’ll ride and the kind of terrain.

The number one thing that keeps lots of people from cycling is discomfort. Ask your bike shop to adjust your position to distribute your weight properly on the saddle and handlebars, making sure your back isn’t strained, and so your knees track properly.

Great Rides are mostly off-road and predominantly Easy to Intermediate, traversing a remarkable range of landscapes, from sparkling coastlines to rolling farmland and flinty mountain passes. They’re a memorable way to explore some of New Zealand’s world famous natural landmarks, and open the door to a variety of fun active holiday possibilities too. So what are you waiting for?

Or if you want a real challenge – still suitable for ‘seniors’ then have a look at the GNZT…