While you are gone!
While running and walking is a popular workout, cycling is a thorough workout in its own league. While it allows you to explore nature where you are only limited by your stamina, cycling is a low impact workout that activates your immune system.
Here are a few pointers before you go out on that cycling trip-
o Inform your family / friends about your itinerary / Route: Keep your family / friends informed and updated on your route plans and itinerary throughout the tour. Also keep a list of phone numbers for emergency services handy and make a list of police stations and hospitals on the route you’ll be traveling. Carry prescribed medications with you and make sure you know first aid.
o Know your bike and your body: It is imperative that you know how much you can push your body and bike. Train sufficiently and most importantly, train consistently. Be sure to know what the limits are. Know the terrain well.
o Shed all ego and pre-conceived notions about people and places: We tend to stereotype and create notions about strangers and places that we haven’t been to. More often than not, this turns out to be grossly miscalculated.
o That said, don’t flaunt money/symbols of wealth like an iPod or a laptop when you’re traveling alone. Travel Safe. Be alert at all times
o Carry essentials: Carry only essentials on your bike and self if you are on a tour like the BSA TfN where Riders are supported by Support Staff on motorbikes and SUV’s. However if you are on a self supported bike tour, ensure you have packed smartly. Carry the right bike panniers but remember that every kilo that you add to your cycle/self translates into that much more effort you’d have to put to pedal.
o Blend in: Many times, we act like tourists when traveling, which might act against us when traveling between towns and villages. Engage the locals in conversations about the weather, movies and such neutral topics. Avoid politics. Dress as a local would and avoid getting into conflicts or arguments with any local.
By Navin Mathew
The TfN Editor
Tags: cycle, experience, fun, journey, TfN2011
