A Brief Education in Cycling
Unlike soccer, football, baseball, and even track and field, cycling is not necessarily the top attention or cash grabbing sport in the world today. In reality, most of us know very little – if anything – about the sport. The bicycle (the instrument of the cycler) is one of the most familiar items in the world. It, however, is recognized as a leisure and transportation tool. Many of us fail to think of the bicycle as the equipment a cycler uses in a heart-pumping competition. In recent years, figures such as Lance Armstrong have brought some attention to the sport. Nevertheless, it remains largely in the obscurity.
The lack of attention paid to cycling does not reflect a lack of importance or deserving. In fact, the sport is extremely interesting to follow and truly beneficial to practice.
The bicycle – the tool used for the sport of cycling – is primarily a means of transportation. Largely used for getting from one place to another and for recreation, it is also used in sport and athletics.
The earliest races took place in the 19th century, with large races becoming popular in the 1890s curing the “Golden Age of Cycling” in Europe. In fact, cycling was a quite popular sport until the mid-20th century. Today, cycling is largely known for the Tour de France, which started in 1903. It is featured in the Olympics, giving viewers another chance to experience it. Beyond these two events, however, it is a minority sport.
There are various racing formats for cycling. Road races, for example, involve both teams and individuals and are contested in a number of ways. They may last just one day or include several stages. Track racing is lesser known but also takes place throughout the year in Velodromes. In recent years, mountain bike racing has become increasingly popular and is now an Olympic sport.
Cycling is not just for the pros. In fact, it is a great option for those looking to begin a fitness program or to change the fitness program they currently use. Popularity of the sport is increasing among even the most amateur athletes.
Research has linked cycling, like most physical activity, to an overall increase in physical and mental health. The time, effort and money put into starting out in the world of cycling will be returned to the individual manifold.
Like running, cycling is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness. It benefits the legs, buttocks and abdomen among other parts of the body while getting heart rates up to burn calories and to lose fat. Easier on the joints than impact sports, cycling is a great cardio alternative for those with arthritis or past sports injuries. Because it is generally practiced sitting down, it is an activity within reach of all.
Those looking to try out cycling have both indoor and outdoor options. Indoor spin classes are popping up in gyms all over and seem to be all the rage. For those who prefer to be outside, the cycling options are endless. All that’s necessary is a bike.
If you don’t know much about cycling yet, it may be time to start doing some research. Check your TV Guide to find out when an event will be featured on ESPN or another sports channel, and head to your local bike shop to see what equipment it has to offer. You may be surprised to find out how much you enjoy this lesser-known sport.
Damian Papworth enjoys cycling, both as a leisure past-time and in weekend competition. He knows how crucial hydration in the sport is so he published the Cycling Water Bottle website. You can visit it at http://cyclingwaterbottleshop.com
