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Showing posts from May, 2024

Even Cyclists Have Bad Days: Stories from the Saddle I’d Rather Forget

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Even Cyclists Have Bad Days: Tales from the Two-Wheeled Underworld Most days on the bike feel like magic. Wind at your back, legs spinning, sun glinting off your handlebars — you know, the kind of ride that makes you feel like you could keep pedaling forever. And then there are those days. The ones where it feels like your bike made a deal with the devil, and you’re just along for the punishment. Trust me, I’ve had more than my share. Let me take you on a little tour through the two-wheeled underworld — where flats multiply, storms chase you, and yes, even slugs take their revenge. Exhibit A: The Chain Incident of ’22 It was just a simple Sunday ride — one of those “easy recovery” days where you tell yourself you’re going to spin gently and maybe stop for a cinnamon roll. About 20 miles in, my chain decided to stage a full-blown rebellion. One second I’m pedaling; the next, I’m standing roadside like a stork in Lycra, chain wrapped around my crank like it was auditioning for Cirque ...

Conquering Slick Streets: How I Ride Safely in the Rain

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🌧️ Real Rides, Real Lessons: I’ve pedaled through sunshine, snow, and storms. But nothing has taught me more about respect for the road than cycling in the rain. This post includes the night I thought I might die — and how it changed the way I ride forever. Conquering Slick Streets: How I Ride Safely in the Rain (and What Nearly Killed Me in Bowie, TX) There’s something freeing about cycling in the rain. Dodging raindrops. Feeling the wind. That satisfying hum of tires slicing through puddles. I used to embrace it — until I learned just how dangerous it can get. One of my earliest wet-weather rides almost ended in disaster. I was zipping along a familiar route when I hit what felt like black ice — an oily patch of road near an intersection. My tires skidded. My heart jumped. Somehow, I stayed upright. But it rattled me. ⚡ The Night That Changed Everything But nothing — and I mean nothing — compares to what happened in Bowie, Texas during my 2016 bicycle tour ...

Cycle Your Way to Better Sleep: How Seniors Can Pedal Toward Restful Nights

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As we age, getting a good night’s sleep can feel harder than ever. Tossing and turning, waking up at 2 a.m., or feeling groggy even after a full night’s sleep—sound familiar? But what if something as simple and enjoyable as riding a bike could help? 🛌 Pedal Your Way to Better Sleep Research has shown that moderate exercise like cycling significantly improves sleep quality in older adults. Here’s how two wheels can lead to sweet dreams: 🚲 Reduces stress and anxiety Cycling releases endorphins—natural mood boosters that ease tension and promote relaxation, reducing nighttime restlessness. 🚲 Promotes physical fatigue in a healthy way Using up energy through physical activity helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. 🚲 Helps regulate your internal clock Cycling in the morning or early afternoon helps sync your circadian rhythm , the body’s sleep-wake cycle. 🚲 Boosts overall health Better cardiovascular health, stronger muscles, and improved mental clarity all contribut...

What You Need to Know About Cyclist Knee Pain

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Cycling is a great way for seniors to stay active and healthy, but it's not uncommon to experience knee pain from time to time. Knee pain can be a frustrating and debilitating issue for cyclists, but with the right knowledge and precautions, it can often be prevented or managed. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the common causes of knee pain in cyclists, as well as some tips for prevention and treatment. Causes of Knee Pain in Cyclists The most common causes of knee pain in cyclists include: Overuse injuries : These occur when you cycle too much or too intensely, without giving your knees enough time to rest and recover. Improper bike fit : If your bike is not adjusted properly to your body, you may be putting excess pressure on your knees, causing pain and discomfort. Muscle imbalances : If your leg muscles are not equally strong, it can cause your kneecap to track improperly, resulting in knee pain. Prevention of Knee Pain in Cyclists Preventing knee pain when cycling...

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