While anyone can make the best home gym ever, why not make the whole world your gym? Okay, that sounds a bit dramatic, but if you’re someone who loves staying active, why not have a holiday that focuses solely on that? Seriously, just picture it: winding down quiet roads, fields of wildflowers on either side, with nothing but you, your bike, and the open road ahead. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, if you’re into roadside cycling, then yeah, it most likely sounds great.
But here’s the thing: that dream can quickly turn into a muscle-cramped nightmare without the right prep! Technically, the same can be said for hiking or even trekking (or any exercise-filled activity). But all of these are perfect for combining adventure, seeing new places, and exercising, too.
Plus, you can see some of the prettiest and most popular landscapes, like the Lake District or even Provence. So, roadside cycling is really popular; it’s actually one of the most popular activities when it comes to heath-filled holidays. But the thing is, you really need to prep for it, especially if this is your first time ever doing this.
Now, how do you even prep for something like that? It should be as simple as bringing a bike or renting one, right? Well, surprisingly, no, not really. There are a few things you really do need to keep in mind. So, with all of that said, here’s what you need to know!
This is a collaborative post.
You’ll Need to Keep Up the Fuel
No, not petrol, and no, not electricity (unless you’re using an e-bike). But food, yes, energy! You’re not just going to be cycling around the block—long days of pedalling call for some serious energy, and it’s all about starting strong. Sure, it sounds obvious, but this seriously does need to be addressed though. So ideally, it’s best to load up on a hearty breakfast with carbs and protein, like a big bowl of oats with fruit and nuts, so you’ve got fuel in the tank right from the start.
Plus, on the road, quick snacks like bananas, nuts, and energy bars can be lifesavers. And don’t forget to stay hydrated! Honestly, there’s plenty of cyclist electrolyte drinks out there.
Pace Yourself and Enjoy the Ride
When you’re finally on the road, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and start pedalling like you’re in the Tour de France. But steady, consistent pacing is what will keep you smiling instead of cursing your bike. Break your route into chunks with quick stops here and there for a breather.
A steady pace means you’ll actually get to appreciate the little things along the way, like the café tucked around a bend or the perfect picnic spot under a tree. After all, you’re here to enjoy yourself, not set a speed record.
Don’t Skip on Recovery Time
Who likes muscle soreness? Well, the average person doesn’t. Seriously, nothing brings a holiday down faster than legs that feel like concrete by day two. Now, it might be obvious, but recovery is your secret weapon to waking up each morning ready to go.
Now, there are a few ways to go about it. Some swear by massage guns, others are just so used to cycling that nothing makes them sore, and then there are others who use a portable ice bath for athletes (hence the word “portable”). Okay, so it really depends on how your body recovers, but most athletes tend to use ice to reduce inflammation so they can bounce back faster.
Again, roadside cycling trips tend to be nonstop cycling for 8 or more hours a day, and it’s every day until it’s time to go home (and sometimes there’s a destination, so it’s not always in circles). But overall, a little recovery time each day goes a long way in making sure you don’t spend the second half of your holiday limping along instead of cruising.
Gear Up
Your bike is more than just a ride—it’s your partner in this adventure, so give it the attention it deserves. So that’s why a lightweight road bike is ideal for long distances, but whatever you’re using, make sure it’s in top shape. Get a tune-up before you go to avoid any mechanical drama mid-trip.
Of course, you can always rent this, and the same goes for the gear. For the most part, bike rental companies tend to have excellent-quality bikes, and the same goes for accessories like helmets. Just make sure you’re getting items solely for roadside cycling.
Be Ready for All-Weather
Ah, the great outdoors—beautiful, yes, but also unpredictable. You really don’t know how the weather is going to be. Just because your weather app says one thing, that could literally change the next day, especially if you’re travelling throughout the country or region. So, you might need to pack enough to be prepared for, well, anything!
Check Out the Local Roads and Traffic
Now, some places, like the Netherlands, are made for cycling. Dedicated bike paths? Yes, please! But in other spots, like winding roads in the Lake District or even Provence, you might be sharing the road with cars and buses. It’s worth researching the area’s traffic and road conditions to plan the safest and most scenic route.
Quieter roads or dedicated bike paths mean you can fully enjoy the experience without dodging traffic. If you’re headed somewhere with narrow roads, like parts of Provence, choose your timing carefully to avoid the heaviest traffic.
Plan Rest Days and Let the Legs Recover
Even the most dedicated cyclists need a break, so give yourself a few days off the bike. Rest days are perfect for soaking up the local culture, tasting the food, or exploring on foot. So, taking time to let your muscles fully recover keeps you fresh and avoids any overuse injuries.
Now, not all cyclists do this, but if this is your first ever trip doing roadside cycling, then yes, by all means, you should try and get some days of rest. Really, what’s the point of travelling if you’re really not experiencing anything, right?