If you’re reading this, there’s close to a 100% guarantee that you’re a cyclist, or at least the type of person who enjoys getting out on their bike when they get the chance. And why wouldn’t you be? Road cycling is an amazing activity that comes with a range of benefits, from building muscle, increasing stamina and flexibility, burning fat and providing an excellent cardiovascular workout, to giving you something fun and worthwhile to do with friends and family. It’s also a great way to get some fresh air, discover new places, challenge yourself and keep your spirits high.
Despite all of these perks, there are countless people who don’t even own a bike, never mind ride one regularly. You can help change this.
Encouraging others to cycle is very easy and can be achieved in a variety of ways. You don’t have to hassle people or make them feel guilty, but instead show them how much you love cycling and gently explain why they would too. Follow our tips below and you’ll find they soon become avid members of the two-wheeled lifestyle.
Cycle to work
Taking the bike instead of the car or bus will get your mind and body ready for the day ahead, reduce road congestion and carbon emissions, and could even get you to work faster thanks to the ability to nip through traffic jams. Get your co-workers on-board and see if the company can become involved in a national cycle to work scheme.
Make the most of the weekend
Bring friends and family together for an outing. It doesn’t have to be dozens of miles and uphill all the way, just plan a leisurely ride along quiet roads to a picnic area, landmark or attraction. Make some memories together!
Take part in events
There are cycling events all over the place, to the extent that you can usually find one practically on your doorstep. If there aren’t any nearby anytime soon, why not take a trip to somewhere that has one coming up? The more people that get involved in these events, the more coverage they receive in the press, which will in turn encourage others to take part in the future.
Get the kids started early
Children can cycle from a very young age with the help of stabilisers. Developing a love for cycling as a child makes you much more likely to carry on the habit into adulthood.
Share, share, share!
If you use social media, take photos and videos to share with your followers. The occasional selfie is allowed, but what will really open people’s eyes to cycling are your surroundings. Show them the fields, rural lanes, beaches, metropolitan centres, roadside cafes, natural wonders, sunsets and sunrises that you experience, and chances are they’ll be itching to get a piece of the action.
Promote safety
Make sure your peers know to get their bike serviced regularly, wear a helmet, respect the road and be aware of their environment whilst cycling. Then of course there’s Ridersmate, which is a sound investment for every rider. Now get out there are help people become more active!
Image credit: Comrade Foot on Flickr
