How to Be a Better Cyclist Off the Bike

There are tips and tricks that could fill a book on how to up your cycling game - when you're on a bike. What about when you're not cycling? How can you be a better cyclist when you're not on your bike? Let's take a look.

Photo credit: Patient Care Technician

Visit the Doctor

Yes, we are well aware of the healthcare...situation in the USA. Putting that aside, you should never ignore or "push through" any type of pain. Pain is the brain signaling that something is clearly wrong. Ignoring or pushing through pain can ultimately cause more damage and increase risk for other issues. Visit your doctor, pay attention to your body's signals. Give your body time to rest and recover. Push yourself hard just enough that you are improving, but not so much that you are damaging yourself. Keeping your body at its best is a safety measure that will benefit you on and off the bike. 

Courtesy of A Subset via Flickr

Know the Laws

We love the road. Whether it be paved or not, cyclists have a love for the road. Cyclists also have to share the road. There is a lot of ignorance out there, and being informed is the cure. Knowing the laws of the land is a key difference between killing it on the road and being roadkill. Although we're being a little facetious here, we cannot stress enough. Know the traffic rules, abide by them, and ride safely. 

Sleep 

A good night's rest is what determines what kind of day you're going to have. Lack of quality sleep is proven to be a cause of poor motor function, lessened cognitive ability, and inhibited situational awareness. All of which you need to be a great cyclist. Ride hard, sleep hard. 

Know your Bike

A great mechanic is invaluable. Someone who knows what they're doing, and can be trusted to take care of your ride. They can't always be there, when something goes wrong with your bike. Knowing the basic mechanics of your bike, how to make adjustments, where to look for signs of wear and tear, knowing how to perform those quick fixes until your next visit to the shop, all of these are things you should know as a cyclist. 

Courtesy of Jake Vince via Flickr

You Are What You Eat

Cheat days aside, eating healthy means giving your body the best possible nourishment for the best possible performance. Eat a healthy and balanced diet so your body has clean fuel to burn. Eating the right foods and portion control contributes directly to performance and is just as important as having the right gear and the right bike.