Cycling Tips to Stay Hydrated and Prepared

Whether you’re new to cycling or you’ve been riding for decades, hydration is always important. It will keep you focused and help your body perform well even if you’re just taking a relaxing ride around the neighborhood.

Anytime you are exercising, you’re sweating out water that your body needs to perform important everyday functions such as digestion, body temperature regulation and joint lubrication amongst many other things. The only way to replenish that water and keep your body in tip-top shape is to consume water throughout the day.

Although the recommended amount of daily water is eight eight-ounce glasses, this amount really fluctuates depending on your individual body type and, most importantly, your level of physical activity. People who are very active will need to intake more water to replace water lost.

Knowing how to stay hydrated is just one of our basic cycling tips you’ll need to know to stay safe and healthy.

Drink Water and Electrolyte Drinks

Your body needs water to function, but it also needs electrolytes, or minerals such as sodium and potassium. The benefits of electrolytes include maintaining blood pressure, muscle recovery, improved immune function and more.

Water can help hydrate your body, but it doesn’t contain all the electrolytes you need. DripDrop electrolyte powder helps with rehydrating your body, especially if you’re experiencing mild to moderate dehydration symptoms, and it includes three times the amount of electrolytes as traditional sports drinks to help you reach peak cycling performance.

Staying hydrated doesn’t mean just drinking water during your ride. You should practice good hydration habits by drinking water before, during, and after your ride. This will help you to avoid dehydration. Carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day as a reminder to sip, and get a water bottle holder for your bike, so you can continue hydrating.

Always Check Your Tire Pressure

One of the first cycling tips you should know is how to check your ABCs — air, brakes, chain. You should always check the air in your tires before every ride, even if you feel sure that your tires have air. Use a pressure gauge to check that your tires are inflated to the correct pressure. As a general rule of thumb, if the tires feel extremely firm (i.e. they do not squish at all when squeezed), your tires are probably good to go, but it’s best to check the exact pressure.

Check your brakes to make sure they are not worn down and ensure that the cables are tight. Also check your chain for signs of rust. They should be rust-free, clean and lubricated.

Map Out Your Route Ahead of Time

Whenever riding on the road with drivers, other cyclists, and pedestrians it’s essential that you are familiar with your route. If you’re traveling somewhere you don’t frequently ride, look up your route on a map ahead of time. Most GPS apps on your phone will provide an option for bike directions to help you avoid busy streets that can be more dangerous for cyclists.

Another great cycling tip to keep in mind is to familiarize yourself with local and state cycling laws. This will help you make the safest choices when riding alongside drivers who may not be as familiar with bike laws.

Invest in the Right Equipment

Some states require cyclists to have lights on their bike while riding at night. Even if it is not a law where you live, lights are an essential piece of equipment. You wouldn’t drive a car without a light, right? High-end lights can be pricey, but there are many affordable options on the market. Lights help to ensure that drivers and other cyclists see you on the road, which can help you avoid getting into an accident.

Having a secure lock is another important item, so you can lock up your bike when you reach your destination. Many cyclists also invest in a bell. While this can seem like a fun, whimsical accessory, it’s actually a safety precaution, so you can warn others around you that you are approaching.

Keep These Cycling Tips in Mind While Riding

Practicing safe cycling will make your experience more enjoyable and keep you safe. Familiarizing yourself with bike laws and routes will help you feel more prepared while staying hydrated will keep you healthy and alert.

Try using DripDrop electrolyte powder to reduce symptoms of dehydration and boost your electrolytes. Save 20% when you order a bundle of four. This powder will provide all the benefits of electrolytes and dehydration relief while only containing one-half the amount of sugar found in traditional sports drinks. If you’re looking to reduce your sugar intake, DripDrop Zero provides all the same benefits with none of the sugar.