Introduction

Cycling Retreats are a beautiful way to see and enjoy the world. There’s nothing quite like a cycling adventure through hills, forests, lakes, and rivers, with just you, your bike, and a few close companions.

Maybe you already love cycling, and you’ve decided that a week-long holiday by bike is an exciting way to travel, or perhaps you just bought a new bike, and you want to try something new. Either way, the time before a trip can be exhilarating and a bit nerve-racking.

While cycling trips are a magical experience, you can’t just go on one willy-nilly. It actually takes quite a bit of planning and active preparation to pull off properly and safely. Your cycling retreat will be much more enjoyable if you’ve done all the necessary preparation beforehand.

To guide you in this process, here are five things to do to get ready for your first cycling trip:

1. Undergo Physical Conditioning

Before you go off on your adventure, you must put in some miles on your bike. Make time to cycle around your area and get used to sitting in your saddle for hours at a time. You wouldn’t want to beg off your cycling trip an hour in because of aches and pains.

You should be doing other forms of exercise, as well. Running and swimming are great to improve your stamina and boost your endurance. Make time in your schedule and keep up a consistent amount of exercise in the weeks leading up to your trip.

2. Pack Smart

When travelling by bike, every gram and every inch counts. Choose lightweight gear and compress your clothes. Bring things that you don’t mind damaging or losing.

To make sure that you’re only bringing the essentials, lay them all a few days before leaving, and then return to them once a day to see if you can pare it down even further.

If you don’t already have an insulated water bottle, get one immediately.

Don’t forget to pack food in the pockets of your bags, so you always have a little treat in case you get hungry. The best cycling trip snacks are trail mix, energy bars, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.

3. Remember to Gear for Comfort

Two words to remember for comfort: padded shorts. It will feel strange at first, but they will provide much-needed comfort when you’re on the bike for a few consecutive hours!

Cycling jerseys are lightweight and breathable, but if you prefer just using a light cotton t-shirt, that will do as well. You may end up cycling through some extreme weather, so be prepared for that, too!

4. Go on a Test Drive

It’s one thing to go on a leisurely bike ride in your local park. On the other hand, a cycling trip is a whole other ballgame.

Cycling while carrying bags of supplies and equipment can be challenging for a first-timer, so you will need to practice.

There are many places around the UK to see check out https://www.sustrans.org.uk/national-cycle-network for different routes around the UK.

One of your regular exercises in the days before you set off is to test drive your fully loaded bike. Learn how to balance and maintain control over long distances.

After a few days, it should be easy for you to catch up to your veteran companions!

5. Invite a Friend, and Have Fun!

Some people go on cycling trips to get away from their busy lives and find some much-needed solitude.

But if you’re the type of person who finds that new life experiences are enhanced with the company around, then invite a friend to your cycling retreat.

You will see some of the world’s most beautiful environments and experience a country’s hidden gems. Make new memories with a close friend, sibling, or partner.

Conclusion

Cycling trips lead to breathtaking sights, unforgettable adventures, and memories you will carry for a lifetime. For a worry-free, comfortable journey, make sure to get a lot of exercise, pack light, and take your bike for a test drive. By preparing thoroughly, you’re sure to have a memorable time.

Do you want to join a cycling weekend in the UK? Ziba Adventures is kicking off our first cycling retreat this year with an exciting adventure in the glorious English countryside.

We go out of our way to find the most incredible places to make for an unforgettable journey. Sign up with us today!