Fruity popsicles, pink skies, the daily humdrum, luscious mangoes, lemonades, and the long days, everything in this sentence is redolent of the summer season. This season indeed brings a sense of liveliness; the outdoors become chirpy, and it feels like the possibilities are endless.
Cycling during the summer is a pleasant activity too; India is known for its beautiful summers; it's a season belonging to poems written during those slow afternoons. Most of the trails in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand open up for cyclists, and some of the major cycling tournaments, such as Tour De France, take place during the summer months. Whether cycling across our locale or taking up a tricky trail, cycling during the summers can be tricky. Here are a few tips to enhance your experience whilst enjoying the season:
1.Hydration is Essential
Summers mean more sweating; minor activities have us dripping with sweat. The same goes for cycling as well. Cycling is a strenuous exercise, and biking during the summers, especially under the hot sun, for a longer while signals significant water loss from our bodies. A cyclist must be well-stocked with water bottles. It is also essential to keep taking a few sips whether you are thirsty or not. Also, have drinks with added electrolytes to have a balanced sodium level.
2.Wear weather-appropriate apparel
Sweating is an issue we cannot save ourselves from; however, we can invest in some clothing with wicking qualities. What are wicking fabrics? They are a relatively modern invention that keeps moisture like sweat away from the body; this fabric absorbs very little water and is essential during cycling. Sunglasses are a must-have when cycling during the summers, it avoids the UV rays damaging our eyes and prevents the dust and sand prevalent during the summer months.
3.Invest in sunscreen
Exposure to harsh sunlight can cause sunburns and faster skin aging, and the threat of skin cancer is also real. However, you can slather your body and face with good quality sunscreen with a high SPF to protect you from potential sun damage. It is also advisable to reapply every few hours for better product efficacy. The market has a wide variety of chemical and mineral sunscreen, and you may choose one as per your usage and don't shy away from applying the product. It is indeed a crucial step.
4.Avoid extreme temperatures
In India, a temperature above forty degrees Celsius is expected everywhere, and the days touch their maximum temperatures in the afternoon. Of course, it is essential to understand that cycling at these hours should be strictly avoided; heatstroke and dehydration will only be a few of your problems. Try cycling in the early morning or during the evenings when the temperatures are still pleasant. Early morning rides have their charm, and it is nice to watch the world wake up as you cycle.
5.Plan and prepare your route
Going over your route a couple of times and understanding your obstacles and limitations is the hallmark of an excellent cyclist. During the summer months, almost all cycling trails are scorching hot, even near hill stations; creating a list of all the essentials you must carry is crucial. Also, note areas where you can stop to get some rest and refill your water bottles. An essential tip is to cycle in areas with ample shades, and it will be easier to relax and recuperate. Lastly, a fully charged phone must be kept in a bag covered with a cloth to avoid overheating.
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