Riding a Bicycle
Riding a bicycle is an enjoyable way to exercise, commute to work or school, or explore one’s local community. For some people, this activity can offer an opportunity to relieve stress, become more mindful of one’s surroundings, try something new and incorporate sustainability into daily life. If you’re just getting started, it’s important to understand the basics of how to ride a bicycle and the foundational components of bike safety.
Overview
Bicycles allow you to move quickly and easily from point A to point B without the aid of a motor. Cycling also provides a low-impact exercise option for people who experience joint pain or would like to improve their cardiovascular health. Before hopping onto your bicycle, it’s important to have a basic understanding of how the bike works and what safety considerations to keep in mind when riding.
How to Ride a Bicycle
Riding a bicycle is a basic skill that can usually be acquired in just a few attempts. It may help to practice in a large open area, such as a park or an empty parking lot, before you venture out onto roads with cars.
1. Start by positioning the bike between your legs with one foot on a pedal.
2. Push off with your other foot and keep the bike balanced with your feet.
3. Place your other foot on the other pedal and start pedaling while maintaining balance.
4. When you’re ready, stand up on the pedals, look ahead and start to coast.
Bicycle Safety
Cycling is a great activity, but it is important to take precautions when riding, including:
• Always wear a helmet to protect your head in the event of an accident
• Wear bright reflective clothing, or equip your bike with reflective material and lights, for improved visibility
• Most importantly, follow basic traffic laws, such as stopping at stop signs, yielding to pedestrians and checking both ways before turning at a crosswalk
Conclusion
All cyclists, regardless of skill level, should remember to respect the rules of the road and practice safety measures. If you’ve been riding for years or are just starting out, taking the time to understand and follow these basic safety tips could make your cycling experience that much more enjoyable.
