safety and health



Preparation Cycling and Health Good Cycling Code Smoother Outings Know the Signs Advanced Stop Lines Learn to Ride a Bike Cycling Proficiency Test Carrying Children on Bicycles RoSPA National Cycling Strategy Police Recorded Cycle Form The Perfect Road The Future How not to cycle	Health and Safety Cycle Helmet Questionnaire Cycling is an excellent form of exercise to increase general fitness. It's good for your heart and lungs, and for improving stamina and muscular strength. Cycling regularly also helps to relieve anxiety and stress, and can be fitted into every day routines. Cycle Helmets: It has to be acknowledged that the use of cycle helmets and their effectiveness is an emotive subject. Statistics are used by both pro and anti cycle helmet groups to argue their case, and subsequently cyclists are often confused by conflicting information on the wearing of cycle helmets. Most individuals and cycling bodies do recommend the use of helmets. For children it's a must wherever they are. As for adults and their use on long distance cycle rides, it's up to the individual. There are strong commercial interests in persuading people to wear a helmet but experienced cyclists know the dangers and most choose to wear one. Read the arguments from both schools of thought though, it's an open debate with relevant points from both sides. In the end, use your own judgment, your own reason and common sense in deciding upon whether or not to use a cycle helmet.
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Water:
Drink lots of water when cycling. Our bodies are made up of 65% water and it's essential to every bodily function including temperature regulation and energy levels - dehydration can lead to dizziness and cramp.

Certain drinks like tea and coffee, including alcohol, instantly quench your thirst but should be avoided as they actually encourage your body to lose water. By drinking lots of water, you replace lost fluids and it helps to cool you down and stave off tiredness.

The golden rule: Don't wait until you are thirsty before you drink water. Keep drinking as you ride - having a drink every 20 minutes can be considered a useful guide. Cramp is a sure sign of dehydration but general tiredness too can be eased by keeping up your water levels. Water's cheap and you can replenish your supplies along the way. Just be sensible - avoid tea, coffee, alcohol and cola-type fizzy drinks while in the saddle.

The Sun:
Cycling is a great way to keep fit and healthy but remember to respect the sun. Without protection the heat leads to dehydration, sunburn and even sun stroke. It's easy to underestimate the power of the sun as cyclists create their own cooling breeze and it's easy to fall into a false sense of security.

Again, be sensible - water intake is a must. It's great cycling along quiet country lanes in the sun but just be aware.