Tips: How do I bike pleasantly in hot weather?
It is a hot summer day and you have decided to go for a bike ride. But how do you do this safely? Cyclis gives you tips on how to cycle as safely and pleasantly as possible in the heat.
The weather is nice and instead of sitting inside all day, you want to go for a nice bike ride. Or you just need to cycle to work on a hot day. But is that a good idea in extreme heat? Here are some tips on how to cycle safely in the heat.
1. Be an early bird
The sun is at its strongest between 11 am and 4 pm. So the best thing you can do is get up early to make the most of a fun bike ride. Won’t your bike ride end until noon? Don’t panic, because by then your body will have already adjusted to the increasing heat and you’ll be able to cope better than if you left in the middle of the day.
2. Hydrate sufficiently
A logical tip you might think. But a lot of people forget how important this is. When you cycle, you sweat. And when you sweat, you lose a lot of moisture. It is definitely recommended to take enough water with you on the road so that you don’t get dehydrated. When sweating, you also lose a lot of salts. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring along sports drinks in addition to water to keep your salts up.
3. Adjust your route
If you’re planning a long trek in an open area, it’s best to think twice. If you really want to bike in extreme heat then it’s best to look for a wooded area. Because you are surrounded by trees and shade, the hot sun comes through much less brightly than if you were cycling in town or in an open area.
4. Rub, rub and rub again!
Make sure you always apply and bring sunscreen. After all, coming home as red as a lobster is the last thing you want. Because of the breezes you feel when cycling, you may think you won’t burn. On the contrary! Even if there is not much sun present, in high temperatures and with a lot of sweating you burn once so quickly.
5. What do I put on in case of heat?
Wear breathable clothing while cycling. There is nothing more annoying than coming home wet from sweating. The best fabric to wear while cycling is lycra. This fabric provides a snug fit and keeps the body cool and dry. Also, don’t forget to put on a helmet with ventilation holes so you don’t get too hot on your head. Finally, bring sunglasses to protect your eyes. So, now you’re all set!
6. Take a break in time
Don’t try to complete the entire bike ride at once. Be sure to stop frequently along the way to rest in the shade and catch your breath so you can continue. What’s also best to do is wet your wrists and head a little with water so they cool back down.
So are you still planning to take a trip by bike on a hot summer day? Then be sure to always have a bottle of water and a can of sunscreen handy. Take breaks in time and enjoy cycling!
