How to Gain Confidence in Riding a Bicycle

Do you want to ride a bicycle but lack the confidence to do so? Riding a bicycle can be fun and it can be a good exercise to stay fit and healthy. However, many have second thoughts riding a bike. They feel conscious of how they appear on the bike or are afraid to go off-balanced and fall.

The lack of confidence is a great deterrent to achieving goals and chances for improvements in health, fitness, skill, and fun. The good news is, confidence can be developed and achieved.

Try looking into these suggestions on how to gain confidence in riding a bicycle.

Have the proper mindset. It is just a matter of attitude. Having a strong belief that you can improve your fitness, skills and overall ability in riding a bicycle through practice and training gives you a positive outlook and consequently, gives you purpose, drive and direction.

Practice self-talk. This is often used in cognitive behavioral therapy. When you notice negative thoughts that may hinder or disempower you to do something, talk yourself out of it or counter it. For instance, you may think, “oh, that is a steep hill”, counter it with, “I can do this” or “It’s now or never”. When things go well, you may complement yourself “I am getting better at this”. If you are tensed, tell yourself to relax.

Appropriate goal setting. The wonderful thing about cycling is that you can do it in your own pace. For starters, you may want to set a goal that is easily achieved like ride the bike three blocks from your house and gradually stretch that distance farther until you are confident to take longer distances and even challenging trails. When you reached your goal set, you will get this exhilarating feeling of success and might want to do more the following day.

Practice makes perfect. Before taking off on the road, you may want to practice first in your own yard. Practice getting on and getting off your bike. Ride short distances from your house and back.

Be in good company. You may also ask the company of your family or friends who can be your support to help you and motivate you to keep going.

Gear up right. You may want to choose a bicycle that feels right for you. You’re comfortable on it. Do not forget your safety gear and wear the right clothes.

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