5 Important Health Benefits to Cycling

Are you looking to change your life in a seemingly minimal way, but with major health benefits? Have you considered cycling? If you already live an active lifestyle and are looking to change up your current routine, cycling could be the activity for you. Even if you’re just beginning to look for ways to ease into an active lifestyle, cycling is something that can easily be incorporated into your day-to-day. There are many health benefits to cycling and today, we’re highlighting the five we feel scream "reason enough” for you to jump on the cycling bandwagon.

Low-impact Exercise for All Ages

It doesn’t matter what age you are, high-impact exercises can affect anyone at any time with risk of injury. Maybe you’ve been a runner all your life or you’ve just begun taking dance classes; next thing you know, you’ve developed arthritis in your joints or you have a stress fracture in your foot. Low-impact exercises—like cycling—are great, because they take away the weight bearing down on your joints and muscles. Cycling can still give you that heart-pounding high, while allowing you to push as little or as much as you need to.

Mood-improving Workout

Studies have shown for years that physical activity helps to relieve stress, anxiety, depression, and simply improve overall mental health. You know the feeling…when you've pushed yourself to the point of exertion only to feel—moments later— an overall sense of elation. Do you want to experience that everyday? Jump on a bicycle. Even cycling for a mere 30 minutes can greatly improve your subjective mood. 

Easy to Incorporate into Daily Life

No one is saying you have to cycle like a pro to reap the health benefits of one. You don’t have to sign up for cycling races or follow the same trails your neighborhood cycling club does if you don’t want to. Maybe you’re in a position where you can cycle to work. Not only is that a great way to ensure cycling becomes a part of your daily routine, think of how much you’ll be saving on gas and parking—score! Work isn’t the only reason you leave the house, right? Run errands by bike. You’d be surprised how much a installed bike rack can support. If sitting in the school carpool line is of little interest to you, cycle with your kids to and from school. Find ways to incorporate cycling into your life that suit your lifestyle.

Boost Brain Power

Just as cycling can improve your subjective mood, it can also improve your cognitive capabilities. A study from the University of Illinois showed that walking or cycling regularly can improve memory, attention, and problem solving skills. “While we know that [cycling] can have positive effects on cardiovascular disease and diabetes, we have found it can bring about improvements in cognition, brain function, and brain structure,” said lead researcher, Dr. Art Kramer.

Keep Diseases at Bay

Sadly, cycling isn’t a curer of disease, however, it can most certainly help protect you from developing serious ones. Cycling is a great aerobic activity for controlling or reducing weight to protect you from obesity. Cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, cardiac arrest, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease can be prevented by cycling daily. With cycling being a low-impact activity, chances of bone injuries and arthritis are greatly reduced. 

Don’t wait. Make the change to incorporate cycling into your daily routine today. Please share in the comments section below other health benefits to cycling. 

Holiday Gift Guide for Cyclists

The holidays are here folks! If you’re looking for the perfect present to gift the cyclist you love - or add to your own list - then we’ve got the gift guide for you. Check out our slideshow below. Images are linked to purchase sites.

Swamp Rabbit Inn Giftcard

Gift the cyclist in your life a trip to Greenville, SC for a cycling vacation and stay at the most bike-friendly inn around, The Swamp Rabbit Inn, situated along the 22-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Hincapie Women's Revole Long Sleeve Jersey

The perfect long sleeve jersey from Hincapie to fight the cold while on chilly winter rides.

Trek Bikes: Project One

Nothing screams personalized gift quite like a custom Project One Trek bike. Choose the model, paint and parts that will bring their dream bike to life.

Coaching from Trimarni Coaching and Nutrition

Give the gift of coaching with the best of the best: Trimarni Coaching and Nutrition. Marni and Karl offer a variety of coaching services here in Greenville, SC to help any athlete reach their performance goals.

Methodical Coffee Subscription

Coffee is the way to any cyclists heart. Methodical Coffee in Greenville, SC offers a subscription service that delivers their coffee straight to your door as often as you’d like. Choose from four delicious packages.

Uncommon Goods Bike Chain Bottle Opener

Handmade by artisans in Mosier, Oregon, this funky bottle opener is made of recycled bike parts that still had some life left in them.

Freehand Luggage Travel Cup Holder

Perfect for the globetrotting, coffee loving cyclist. This hands-free cup holder sits between the handles of your suitcase and allows you to pull at almost angle without worrying about spills as it moves with you to keep the beverage upright.

Uncommon Goods Bike Tube Can Sleeve

Made from reclaimed tube material and upcycled tent fabric, this insulating sleeve holds three cans, includes a shoulder strap and attaches seamlessly to your bike frame.

Pactimo Quick Release Changing Kilt

Whether you’re out on a trail ride or participating in a race, you don’t always have the luxury of a private changing area. This changing kilt is designed to give you a bit of privacy when you need to change on while on the go.

The Rules: The Way of the Cycling Disciple

From the founders of Velominati.com, The Rules is the Bible of cycling etiquette. Enjoy this humorous take on over 90 rules of cycling do’s and dont’s.

Road iD

Keep the cyclists you love safe with their own Road iD. These custom ID wristbands are stylish, durable and useful in the event of an accident.

Bontrager - Flare R USB Tail Light

Gift the cyclist in your life the best of the best in tail lights with the Bontrager Flare R. This is the first tail light designed for daylight visibility.

Bontrager Cotton Cycling Cap

You can’t go wrong with a stylish bike cap. Keep rain and shine out of your face, your helmet hair in check and simply look like a true cycling OG.

DeFeet Aireator Socks

Cycle in style with a pair of DeFeet’s Aireator socks; the gold standard of cycling socks. Affordable, durable, comfortable and available in a variety of cool designs.

If you have any gift suggestions for cyclists, we’d love to hear them. Feel free to share in the comments section below. Happy shopping!

Why Travel by Bike

Why travel by bike you might ask when someone tells you this is how they plan to get around on their upcoming trip. If you’re not accustomed to cycling the thought of this might never have crossed your mind. To a cyclist, however, they know the benefits of getting around on two wheels.

“I don’t ride a bike to add days to my life. I ride a bike to add life to my days.”

-Unknown

Essentials Only

Everyone who has ever traveled before has muttered the following phrase: only pack the essentials. Easier said than done when you have a spacious suitcase or all the room in the world in your car. Well, your space is rather limited when traveling by bike. Not only are the necessities a must they are literally all that will fit, so leaving behind those extra “just in case” outfits is not a big dilemma. Only having to rely on your bike, your basics and yourself allows you freedoms that everyday travels can’t provide you.

Change in Perspective

Most of the time we’re so focused on getting from one place to the next we end up missing out on the experiences that pass us by. The rhythmic tunes of native street bands, the sweet smells from local bake shops, scenic back roads, wall murals in hidden alleyways, etc. On a bike, your senses are heightened and able to experience that which would otherwise be blocked off on planes, trains or automobiles. Enjoy the freedom to control which paths to take and when to stop and smell the roses.

Time to Yourself

There’s something to be said about traveling alone. Having the opportunity to be completely selfish with your time is quite liberating; nothing and no one, but you and the world around you. Traveling by bike allows you to be flexible with your schedule, stop when you want to stop, and allow you time alone with your thoughts without disruption. It’s also a great opportunity to get to know yourself better, both physically and mentally.

Healthy Living

You know how you always plan to hit the hotel gym while traveling, but never actually do? Well, if you travel by bike you won’t have to worry about missing your daily workout. On-top of the necessary miles you’ll put in getting from one place to the next, you’ll be able to push your limits on new terrain. Let’s not forget the fact that cycling promotes positive mental health as well. I don’t know about you, but what could be better than stress-free travel?

Don’t knock it before you try it. Traveling by bike may be just the thing that transforms you from a tourist into a traveler. If you have traveled before by bike, share your tips and destinations with us in the comments section below.

Tips for Cycling Beginners

We’ve all got to start somewhere, right? Edison didn’t build the incandescent light bulb in a day nor did Greg LeMond become the first non-European to win the Tour de France overnight. They - along with everyone else in the world with a dream, passion or hobby - overcame obstacles or failed numerous times before achieving what they wanted to achieve.

Every cyclist out there - from career champions to joy riders - started out as a beginner; learning the ins and outs just like you’re about to do. Whatever your reason for getting into cycling is, we welcome you to the community and we want to help you get started. Check out our tips for cycling beginners that will help ease you into your new cycling lifestyle smoothly.

PICK THE RIGHT STYLE OF BIKE FOR YOU

First things first: what type of riding do you want to be doing? Before you go purchase a new bike and all the goods that come with it, determine which bike will best suit your cycling lifestyle:

Road Bike: light-weight bikes meant for speed along paved surfaces. Ideal riding for recreation and fitness.

Mountain Bike: heavy bikes meant to be ridden off-road for more adventurous riding on varied terrain. These are what you want if you’re looking to climb steep terrain or ride along rugged trails.

Touring Bike: stable bikes meant to travel long distances and carry heavy loads. Great if you’re planning to carry packs of extra clothing or gear.

Hybrid Bike: light-weight bikes made of combined characteristics from road, touring and mountain bikes meant for short distances. Perfect for commuting to work, exploring your city or taking a leisurely ride.

Cyclocross Bike: relatively light-weight bikes meant to handle a variety of surface types such as pavement, dirt, gravel, and grass. A perfect fit for riding at performance and competition levels.

Commuter Bike: sturdy bikes made for urban environments. As in the name, these bikes are ideal for everyday commuters.

Cruiser Bike: comfortable bikes with old-fashioned looks seen cruising around beaches and other flat terrains. If you’re looking to take a cruise on a stylish ride, this one’s for you.

Electric-Assist Bike: these heavier bikes feature battery-powered motors that help make commutes, long distances and steep climbs a tad easier. A really nice option for beginners.

MAKE SAFETY A PRIORITY

We can’t express this enough: stay safe. Whether you’re sharing the roads with automobiles or biking on rugged terrain, you must make your safety a priority. When it comes to riding on the road, it’s all about being seen. Wearing bright clothing or gear (helmets, shoes, gloves, etc.) is recommended and equipping your bike with bike light is a definite.

This could probably go unsaid, but we’re going to say it anyways: wear a helmet! If protecting your head and brain aren’t reasons enough, then it’s just another way for you to be seen. Also, know your verbal and nonverbal signals. Nonverbal cues such as stopping, turning left and turning right are crucial to know so motorists can react accordingly. Being able to communicate those same cues verbally whether you’re riding amongst one cyclist or twenty will help prevent collisions from occurring.

KNOW YOUR STATE’S BIKE LAWS

For drivers, it’s all about knowing the rules of the road to survive. Same goes for cyclists and if you didn’t know, those rules vary by state. These laws cover everything from it being mandatory to ride in a bike lane if it’s provided to if no bike lane, which side of the lane to ride closest to to the number of cyclists allowed to ride side-by-side.

It’s also good to know the bike laws in place for motorists. Be sure to know the distance a vehicle should keep from you and also know that it’s not okay for a driver to yell at or harass you. Not only is that just plain rude, it’s literally against the law.

FIND A RIDING BUDDY OR GROUP

As they say, there’s safety in numbers. Not only is riding with another good for the company, but also in case of an emergency. If you crash or need a hand with bike maintenance, having someone there to lend their assistance can go a long way.

It can also be incredibly motivating riding with a friend or with a group. You’ll have people there to help push you to reach your goals and hold you accountable for sticking with your scheduled ride times.

PREP BEFORE YOU RIDE OUT

You never know what might happen or where you’ll end up out on your ride, so make sure you’re prepared. Always bring money, a form of I.D. and your phone. Most cycling jerseys have pockets built-in for this purpose. If you require more space, there are various bike bags or pouches you can purchase that attach to certain areas on your bike.

Again, welcome to the community! We’re happy to have you with us and hope you enjoy cycling as much as we do. If you have any tips for cycling beginners, share in the comments section below.

7 Most Stunning Fall Bike Rides

When fall hits, many folks celebrate the arrival of sweaters, the holidays and all things pumpkin spice. Cyclists however, celebrate the crisp weather, the change in scenery and decking out in warm weather gear.

There’s just something about fall weather that not only makes people want to cozy up inside, but bundle up and head outside as well. Grab your bike and enjoy the fall season outdoors on one - or more - of many stunning bike rides around the country. Here are our top favorites to help get you started:

Arcadia National Park/ Photo Credit: John Westrock

Carriage Roads at Acadia National Park | Maine

Financed by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Jr., the Carriage Roads and stone bridges in Acadia National Park are a stunning sight to see for outdoor enthusiasts alike. Cyclists can enjoy 45 miles of scenic crushed rock surfaces amongst autumn colored trees.

Blueberry Lake at Green Mountain National Forest | Vermont

If you’re a beginner looking for easy scenic rides then head to Blueberry Lake in Green Mountain National Forest. Enjoy the crisp air on a few moderate trails featuring downhill slopes, easy climbs and lake views.

Shenandoah Valley | Virginia

Situated in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains is the Skyline Drive Scenic Highway that stretches 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park. You want a long ride with amazing views? This is it! You’ll experience miles of downhill descents, short climbs and 75 stunning overlooks to choose from.

LOST LAKE. PHOTO CREDIT: Dcsl

Lost Lake Trail at Chugach National Forest | Alaska

Venture to South central Alaska for a beautiful mountain bike ride along Lost Lake Trail in Chugach National Forest. If you’re interested in this intermediate to difficult ride, you’ll have the best of both worlds with elements from both forest and tundra. Gear up!

The Kancamagus Pass | New Hampshire

Are you a road cyclist looking for a challenge? The Kancamagus Pass in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is it! At 2,855 feet, this 80-mile ride is filled with smooth terrain, long climbs, breathtaking views and much more. We promise you, this ride in the fall will be one for the books.

Cades Cove Loop at Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Tennessee

Picture it: 11-miles of mountain peaks, diverse wildlife and historic 19th century homesites through out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This popular cycling route offers steep terrains, riverside trails and rolling hills for cyclists to enjoy.

Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo credit: Jim Dollar/ viaduct panorama tm

Blue Ridge Parkway | Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers cyclists over 450-miles of picturesque landscapes to choose from. Known to many as one of the most iconic roads in the U.S., this route is a multi-state ride that stretches across Virginia and North Carolina. Cyclists will encounter long distances, major climbs and above all, striking sceneries.

Y’all get out there and enjoy the beautiful outdoors this season. If you have any fall bike ride suggestions, share them with us in the comments section below!

Hand Signals Cyclists Want You To Know

Just like motorists use signals to indicate their next move, so do cyclists. However, instead of turn signal lights, cyclists use hand signals. With many cities now opening up their streets to cyclists with designated bike lanes it’s important for motorists to understand cycling hand signals when they see them. See below for three important hand signals all motorists should know, modeled by our cycling pal Marquette:

Hand Signal #1: Turning right

Hand Signal #2: Turning left

Hand Signal #3: Stopping or slowing

A few other things to keep in mind:

• ALWAYS check your blindspots

• Slow down. Never speed past a cyclist when driving around them

• When parking, check your mirror before opening the door

• Maintain a minimum of three feet of space from a cyclist

• Check your blindspot before making a right turn

Not only is this information beneficial to the safety of cyclists riding amongst automobiles, but also to motorists themselves. Drivers, remember these tips next time you turn a bend and see a cyclist up ahead. Stay safe!