Cycling for Fitness - a Beginners Guide

Over the past decade, the number of cycling enthusiasts has continually risen. In fact, it is estimated that there was a 100% increase in weekday cycling during 2020/2021, as a result of the pandemic. Pair this with our ever-increasing awareness of the impact that vehicle emissions have on our planet, it’s no wonder that jumping on our bikes is becoming something many of us look forward to. While some have chosen to swap their morning commute out for a more environmentally-friendly alternative, others are using this form of movement as exercise - a means to get fitter, lose weight or simply reach a personal best. With experience in providing security and maintenance solutions for cyclists of all different kinds, the team at Sealant & Tools Direct have pulled together this guide on cycling for fitness - all for the enthusiastic beginner out there.

Why Choose Cycling?

The health benefits of cycling have been widely reported. It offers a low-impact form of exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and won’t put added pressure on hips and joints. Cycling is easy to incorporate into your everyday routine, providing an effective alternative to other forms of exercise. And, there are many different forms from mountain biking through to high-intensity (spin) or off-road. Some key health benefits to consider include:

  • Increases stamina.
  • Increase muscular strength.
  • Increases aerobic fitness.
  • Low impact so causes less strain or injuries.
  • Increased cardiovascular fitness.
  • Increased joint mobility.
  • Lowers levels of stress in the body.
  • Helps to strengthen bones.
  • Can help to reduce body fat levels.
  • Effective at preventing or managing certain diseases.
  • Known for help reduce anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.

So, whether you’re looking to lose weight, better manage a health condition or improve your cardiovascular strength, cycling seems to offer everything wrapped into one.

Research shows that a half-hour, steady bike ride can burn around 150 calories.

Choosing the Right Bike

The first step to improving your fitness with cycling is to choose the right bike for you. We highly recommend visiting a local bicycle shop for specialist advice. But, here are a number of questions you should ask yourself:

  • What types of cycling do I expect to be doing?
  • How much do I want to spend on my new bike?
  • Where am I planning to store my bike?
  • What accessories do I want to have with my bike?
  • What is your fitness level?
  • What size bicycle do I need?

These questions will help you to establish what type of bike will best suit your needs.

Storing Your Bike

Once you have chosen the right bike for you, consider how it will be stored? Do you have a covered, indoor space where your bike can be kept when it’s not in use? Or will you need to make use of an outdoor driveway or communal storing area? Bicycles can be very costly if you want a lot of added extras and accessories. Therefore, storage is key to ensuring that this investment into your health pays off.

Consider these factors before making a decision on how you plan to store your bicycle:

Do You Want a Permanent or Semi-Permanent Solution?

If you’re renting, it probably won’t be appropriate to start bolting things into the ceilings or walls. Considering whether this is a long term storage purchase will help you to decide on the best option.

Do You Want to Store Multiple Bikes?

Perhaps you’re choosing to purchase bikes for every member of the family? Or maybe you’re considering two - one for commuting and another for your adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking on the weekend.

How Heavy Is Your Chosen Bike?

If you’re considering a ceiling hoist or a wall-mounted storage hook, you will need to know what weight capacity both the storage solution and your wall can withstand. This will prevent damage and ensure the bike stays firmly in place at all times.

What Size Wheels Do You Have?

When suspending a bike, you also need to consider the wheel size. There is a range of options available on the market - shop around and do your research.

Storage Options for Your New Bike

Here at Sealant & Tools, we have a number of storage solutions, including cycle stands, bike hooks and hoists.

Cycle Stands

Adjustable bicycle stands are ideal for outdoor storage. They are designed to hold your bike upright, preventing it from becoming scratched. With pre-drilled holes for mounting and a corrosion-resistant finish, they can also be paired with cable bike locks for added security.

Bike Hooks

If you have permission and the wall strength, bike hooks provide a space to store bikes indoors. They are popular in garages but also smaller properties, such as flats where outdoor storage isn’t an option. Ours are manufactured from pressed steel with rubber coating to prevent scratches.

Ceiling Hoists

If you have no floor space but high ceilings, opt for a cycle hoist. Also manufactured with rubber-coated hooks, this device clips onto your bike and allows you to raise it into the air for safe storage. A secure locking mechanism prevents accidental release and many options, including ours, has a 20kg lifting capacity too.

Choosing the right storage is the best way to keep your bike safe and sound until your next trip out.

Bicycle Security

One final thing to consider when venturing into the world of cycling is security. Even if you plan to store your bike inside a safe facility, there will be times where you need to leave it unattended. Consider stopping off to grab a bottle of water or visiting a friend. Security is vital and there are many portable options to consider. Coiled security locks are some of the most versatile. Their extended and durable cords allow them to wound multiple times around wheels and a secure footing of your choice (consider a railing or bike stand, for example). Used in collaboration with a padlock and key, they restrict access to anyone but the rightful owner. And, as you travel about, you can easily wind them around the seat or pop them in a saddlebag for easy transportation.

Cycling is a brilliant way to prioritise your own health as well as injecting fun into your everyday activities. Once you’ve found the perfect bike, deciphered the right storage space and invested in security, you’re ready to take to the roads. Here at Sealant & Tools Direct, we’re passionate about supporting the cyclists of the UK. This is why we have a range of cycling products, from hooks to maintenance oils and pressure washer concentrates.