One of my best holiday memories is cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge all the way to Sausalito with my husband on our honeymoon. I was nervous; I hadn’t ridden a bike since I was a child, and I was banking on my muscle memory kicking in. Plus, I didn’t want to let my new husband down; it’s not as romantic taking a bus, is it?
Anyway, I did it. We cycled down massive hills, on roads, dodged pedestrians, you name it. We had a great time. I didn’t fall off once (that was a big concern of mine), not until we reached our destination, that is. Yes, I don’t know how, but when my feet touched the Sausalito pavement, I fell embarrassingly sideways. I can’t be the only one who’s fallen off a stationary bicycle, can I?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it was years before we bought bikes of our own. I was very grateful for our bikes during the pandemic; we all enjoyed cycling through our local forest on them. But despite enjoying exercising on a bike – it’s a sport I’ve always been wary of pursuing further.
Essentially, I’m nervous about cycling on roads.
It turns out I’m by no means alone in my opinions on this. A new study has revealed that whilst almost half of UK women would like to take up cycling, concerns about dangers on the road, personal safety and a lack of cycling infrastructure are putting women off.
The research revealed that 90% of respondents don’t own a bike, and of those that do, only 16% cycle daily and 18% once or more a week. A further 49% would like to own a bike but are discouraged by worries over road safety and the risk of being injured, a lack of cycle lanes, and not wanting to ride alone – all valid concerns.
The She Can Ride campaign.
Backed by 14-time gold medal-winning Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, the She Can Ride campaign wants to encourage women to cycle.
A new interactive tool has been created to help budding female cyclists connect with like-minded cycling groups and enjoy local rides together as part of the campaign.
Why is the campaign aimed at women?
David Bott, a Senior Partner at Bott and Co (the company behind the research), said: “Although cycling has grown in popularity in recent years, we know there’s a gender gap, and women cycle far less than men.
“Significant barriers remain for women who want to get into the saddle. The survey shows they have concerns about their personal safety and dangers on the road, whether caused by too much traffic, some motorists’ attitudes or a lack of cycling infrastructure.
“Women can feel far more vulnerable than men when they’re cycling, so it’s not surprising their participation rates are lower. This is the reason we’re launching our national campaign She Can Ride to encourage more female cyclists.”
5 Top Tips to build your cycling confidence from Dame Sarah Storey:
#01 Visit Your Local Bike Shop
Most areas have their own local bike shop, and this is the best place to get your cycling journey started. There are other ways of getting your hands on a bike, such as online, subscription services, or bike rentals but gaining expert advice from your local bike shop will help you understand which bike is best for you.
If you’re thinking about commuting to work on your bike, you will need a suitable road bike; if hitting off-road trails on the weekend is more your style, then a mountain bike with chunkier tyres is what you’re after. Or even if you’re looking for a more relaxed approach, there is an array of electric cycles available.
As a woman, you will realise that you require a different style of bike to others, that could be narrower handlebars or a comfier saddle type, we’re all different, and your local bike shop will be available to assist.
#02 Find Local Cycling Groups
Finding like-minded women in your local area is a great way to enjoy cycling. Some people tend to enjoy a bike ride by themselves and have time to think, but finding local cycling groups will help you discover new routes and make new friends.
Cycling in a group will also make you feel a lot safer if you’re not the strongest on the saddle.
#03 Plan Your Route
Thinking of saddling up for a two-wheeled adventure? Always plan your route beforehand.
- Where do I want to go?
- How far will I cycle, and for how long?
Knowing the answers to these questions beforehand will help you understand what to pack – it is never a good idea to run out of food and water during a long ride!
#04 Understand What Clothing and Equipment is Available
There is an array of clothing and equipment available to make your life a lot easier on the bike.
Visiting online stores or your local bike shop, you can grab essentials such as; bigger saddlebags, clothing with storage for snacks, a water bottle cage, or even a phone holder to track your journey.
#05 Always Pack A Rain Jacket
Finally, we all know what the lovely British weather is like. You never want to be caught short on a ride when the heavens open.
Pack a rain jacket with you to stay dry during rainy rides; most jackets available are lightweight and easily packable if the weather picks up.
“With all that said, it’s time to get out and about and explore, have fun and take in the scenery. The United Kingdom offers a wide range of cycling routes in some of the most beautiful parts of the country.”
Dame Sarah Storey
You can discover more about Dame Sarah’s tips, the She Can Ride Campaign and the new interactive tool here.
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I hope you found these tips helpful to build your cycling confidence. Do you own a bike? Can you cycle? Would you like to get into cycling? What blocks do you face? Whatever you’d like to say – or ask – get in touch. Simply leave a comment in the box below. I’m happy to help and I always love to hear from you.
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