Cycling Shoes Suggestions

Any shoes can be worn while cycling, although there are many specially designed shoes that can provide advantages for cyclists looking to achieve a more efficient energy transfer while pedaling. Traditional cycling involves the use of flat pedals, but more consistently we see many cyclists with their feet locked to their bike, whooshing by. This is possible due to “clipless” pedal systems, which is usually considered by advanced cyclists as it allows a more efficient and less tiring ride. And for this type of system specialty cycling shoes are required.

Cycling shoes differ from basic athletic shoes as they feature stiffer soles in order to protect your feet from surrounding objects, while supporting the full length of the foot to reduce fatigue and cramping. These shoes are matched with a corresponding pedal in order to keep feet secured to the bicycle, offering improved control and decreased energy loss while pedaling.

For more information on shoes that may be the best for you, visit http://bit.ly/sxVHAD

Helmet Help

Helmets have greatly evolved over the years; they have become ultra-lightweight and are now sporting added ventilation and more sleek designs. Helmets come in three styles to correspond with the kind of cycling you prefer, though any helmet can be worn interchangeably as the most important feature of a helmet is to protect your head from injury.


Road Bike Helmets: Lightweight, plenty of ventilation, and sleek aero dynamic design.

Mountain Bike Helmets: Provide added features for protection from trailside obstacles, offering more protection at the back of the head and a visor.

Sport Helmets: Worn by both road and mountain bikers as well as inline skaters.

Like a shoe, helmets come in various sizes and should fit you properly to ensure safety. The fit of your helmet is crucial in the protection of your head. To find an appropriate fit, measure the circumference of your head with a flexible measuring tape or ribbon. Most helmet packaging will provide the measurements of the helmet, because what you are looking for is a snug fit.

Visit http://bit.ly/1AzUPQ to watch a video about finding the right helmet fit.

The Inline Skater

The 55 kilometer ride can be difficult for some people. Everyone faces the challenge in their own way. Some train extensively for the weeks and months leading up to the ride, while others practice how to keep hydrated and pack an array of protein shakes and power drinks for the tour. While some believe finishing is the goal, others know that attempting the bike tour is success in itself. Alain Quintard is always up for the challenge, but his experience is a little different…he participates in the bike tour on inline skates.

Alain first bladed his way to the finish line in 2004, when the RONA MS Bike Tours was still the RONA MS Bike and Inline Skating Tour. An avid skater, he jumped on the opportunity to participate as it allowed for a longer skating time with well-stocked check points. What initially began as a hobby became a mission for personal reasons.

“I had a chat with our friend’s daughter who is affected by MS,” Alain said. “She was telling me a little bit more about some of the challenges. So I’m not ready to stop, not when I know some people are struggling like that.” This year, Alain, a local Toronto resident, participated in his eighth MS Bike Tour. In total, he has raised approximately $40,000 for multiple sclerosis.

Cycling Tips to Keep You Safe

Cycling is a multifaceted sport. There are many obstacles that affect a cyclist’s ability to ride - vehicles and pedestrians; weather conditions and; unpredictable terrain. Here are a number of tips you can use in preparation for an event!


Breaking - When approaching a quick stop, make sure you firmly press the breaks and move your bottom to the very back of the bike seat. This decreases the chances of flipping over the handlebars.

Downhill – Refrain from holding your breaks for extended periods of time. This can cause the tires to overheat and lead to a blowout. Instead, periodically tap your breaks lightly.

Uphill – Shift gears to keep a normal tempo. You can also conserve energy by staying in your seat.

Night/Poor visibility – Always wear bright colored and reflective clothing. You should also use a headlight and other bike light accessories to increase your presence on the road.

Pedaling – Avoid pedaling in high gears for long periods of time, as this can escalate pressure on your knees and can lead to injury. Switching to lower gears allows for faster revolutions and adds more to your exercise without straining your knees. The best pace for most cyclists is 60 to 80 rpm.


 
    For more cycling tips visit: http://bit.ly/vsAqX0