A cycling holiday can be an invigorating and inspiring way to spend a week or two. If you’re disabled, however, the benefits of this form of break can be particularly noteworthy. Let’s take a look at some of the more significant ones.
Health and Well-being Benefits of Cycling for People with Disabilities
To begin with, disabled people might enjoy all of the exercise-related benefits that come with time spent in the saddle. You’ll be able to build the condition of your heart and lungs, and keep your muscles strong and your joints mobile. This might help to safeguard you against injury. There are also mental health advantages to consider. The exercise might drive down your stress levels by releasing endorphins, while you’ll get a powerful sense of independence from moving from one place to the next.
Exploring Adapted Bicycles: Finding the Right Fit
As a disabled person, you might not be able to use a traditional bicycle – or, at least, one that hasn’t been adapted to fit your needs.
Adapted bicycles come in many different forms. If you struggle with balance, then a tricycle might be ideal. These can be upright or recumbent. If you have an existing bike, then you can make it function in the same way as a trike by simply appending a pair of stabilisers.
On the other hand, rides who don’t have the use of their legs might consider a handcycle, which works using a pair of handles that, as well as being used to steer the bike, are also used to propel it.
Your choice of vehicle will depend on the nature of your disability, and your personal preferences. Disabled cyclists tend to vary significantly in their needs, and thus you might find it difficult to get a bike that matches yours precisely. In other words, it’s often a good idea to try out a number of different variants. This is where renting, and support organisations, can make a big difference.
Planning Your Route: Accessible Cycling Paths and Destinations
The trail you travel arguably matters just as much as the vehicle you’re using. Certain paths might be perfect for disabled cyclists, while others might be virtually impassable. Generally, it’s a good idea to stick to flatter routes, and to prefer those which have been explicitly marketed as accessible.
Certain parts of the UK, like the newly-opened National Forest in the East Midlands, are easily navigated via e-bike. On the other hand, you might prefer to escape to a warmer climate. Cycling holidays in Spain might offer a pleasing combination of amazing routes and spectacular weather, especially if you plan your trip at the right time of year.
Practical Tips for a Successful Cycling Holiday
Getting the best from a cycling holiday, whether it’s in the UK or overseas, means making sure that you’re in good shape. Build up your endurance, and spend time in the saddle every week during the build-up to your break. If you’re worried about the health implications of your cycling adventure, it’s worth talking them over with your doctor – or with any specialist support staff you might be dealing with on an ongoing basis.
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I'm Alice and I live with a dizzying assortment of invisible disabilities, including ADHD and fibromyalgia. I write to raise awareness and end the stigma surrounding mental and chronic illnesses of all kinds.
