Cyclists enjoy a multitude of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Riding a bike is an aerobic workout and is good for the heart, brain, and blood vessels. It also releases endorphins, the body’s feel-good chemicals, while decreasing cortisol, a stress hormone. Moreover, it helps maintain thinking, learning, and judgment as riders age.

“The extraordinary times we live in now highlight the massive role cycling plays in the new normal,” says Allan Tumbaga, Pru Life UK Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Marketing Officer. “It is an ideal mode of transportation as we are encouraged to practice social distancing guidelines. Additionally, it helps us maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.”

Recognizing the value of cycling both as a hobby and a sport, leading life insurer Pru Life UK joined various global organizations in celebrating World Cycling Day last September with activities like the annual PRURide PH and the inaugural My Prudential RideLondon (My PRL), the virtual version of the world’s largest cycling festival. To further encourage Filipinos to try the sport, participants of the recent My PRL share insightful beginner tips on cycling.

Filipino Cyclists Share Their Tips and Tricks for Beginners

Find the right bike for you.

Returning Prudential RideLondon participant and journalist Bim Santos is a casual cyclist who enjoys exploring the challenging climbs and lush pastoral areas in his hometown, Rizal. What he describes as a pastime became an integral part of his life, especially when public transportation ground to a halt.

Bim stresses the importance of researching the kind of bike suited for you. He points out: “There are as many bikes to ride as there are as many personalities imaginable. Narrow down the main reasons why you want to hop on the saddle, then do a cursory due diligence by researching what bike type will conform to your objective.”

Take it slow.

Bim also recommends easing into cycling instead of rushing into it. “Be confident at whatever leisurely pace you will have at the beginning. Don’t be pressured if an athletic cyclist with an expensive-looking road bike zips past you. Just relax, ease your grip on the handlebar, pace yourself, and enjoy the ride,” he reminds us.

Prepare yourself both physically and mentally.

Meanwhile, sales manager and PRURide PH 2019 participant James Orlanda treats cycling as his form of exercise and stress relief. According to him, it helps reduce anxiety especially when he is feeling overworked or exhausted.

To fully enjoy the sport, he advises aspiring cyclists to condition their body, enhance their mental alertness, and combine it with a healthy diet.

Wear the right gear.

James also highlights the importance of wearing the proper gear, such as a helmet, a cycling jersey, socks, appropriate shoes, sunglasses, and reflective lights.

Both Santos and Orlanda completed their MyPRL races last month. They were joined by Pru Life UK employees Ryan Benguelo, Nelsi Rabe, Ryan Lamayo, and Marvin Pacis, all previous PRURide PH and Prudential RideLondon race finishers.

Nelsi stresses the importance of having both the right gear, and mental and physical mindset when cycling, as well. “Conditioning both the mind and body is essential in cycling. This includes doing the right pre-cycling exercise, eating the right diet, and hydrating yourself,” she says.

Find cycling buddies.

Moreover, Nelsi promotes finding cycling buddies to make the ride more enjoyable even while practicing social distancing.

Plan out your route.

Ryan says planning out your route is a must, especially amidst the current pandemic where travel restrictions are in place for most areas. He suggests visiting places less traveled by people like mountain trails, barrios, or barangay roads that are far from the city.

“We will never get tired promoting the invaluable contributions of cycling to our mind and body. It is part of our We DO Health promise to help Filipinos achieve holistic health and improved well-being. There is no better time to consider cycling than now, or more significantly, during the World Cycling Day,” announces Allan. 

After its participation in MyPRL, the life insurer will be hosting the Virtual PRURide PH in November where beginner, recreational, and professional cyclists can experience the thrill of racing in the comfort of their homes and around their hometowns. 

Meanwhile, cyclists and the public can also download PULSE, Pru Life UK’s all-in-one health management app, where they can register and join the Cycling – PRURider Community. It allows users to connect with other cyclists and share their experiences, knowledge, and tips on the sport, as well as to get further announcements and updates on PRURide PH.

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