What could possibly be more exciting than a holiday that sees you cycling through the gorgeous countryside of destinations as exotic as Croatia, France or Italy? Many people take bicycle holidays these days, for not only are they a great way to really immerse oneself in the scenery, but they’re probably the only holiday that sees holidaymakers returning fitter and in better shape than when they left!
Although there’s a great range of these holidays to suit cyclists of all abilities, from occasional cyclists to those who live life on their bikes, you still need to make sure that you’re up for the challenges that you face. If you’re planning on taking an exciting cycling holiday, take note of the following tips to prepare yourself for the holiday of a lifetime!
Cycle Regularly
In the weeks and months leading up to your holiday you’ll need to cycle regularly to condition your legs and increase your physical stamina. Even though you may just be cycling a few hours a day, you still need to prepare yourself, so:
- Get to know the route you’ll take and the terrains that you’ll be cycling through. If there are hills or steep climbs, it’s a good idea to get in some hill climbing experience to condition yourself. It will make a great deal of difference on your holiday.
- Try to cycle every few days and on occasion, every day. You won’t get any days off on most holidays so conditioning your body to cycle every day will strengthen your legs and back so you won’t get as tired when cycling from town to town.
You may also find that it helps to carry a small backpack when cycling so that you can get used to carrying a small bag on your holiday. Your luggage will be taken by car or van to and from each place you stay, though you’ll need to carry a small backpack with snacks, water, cameras, etc.
Diet and Lose Weight
If you’re a little heavier than you’d like to be, going on a diet and losing some weight before your holiday begins can make a difference to your experiences in many ways. By shedding a few kilos, you’ll find that you have more energy, that cycling is easier and less strenuous and that you enjoy your time more.
When you’re on your holiday you can get all the energy you need to cycle from town to town from snacks (there are many wonderful snacks and treats to sample on these holidays), but try to limit what you eat before you cycle in preparation so that you can burn fat and reduce your bodyweight. As most holidaymakers realise, the better shape they’re in when they depart for their holiday the more they get out of their cycling experiences. It really is well-worth making the effort.
Wherever you’re planning to take an exciting cycling holiday, whether that’s Catalonia in Spain or Tuscany in Italy, you’re sure to have a fantastic time. Especially if you prepare yourself beforehand.
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