Tips For Track Cycling Beginners

Cycle training requires plenty of dedication, but there are other factors which can impact on your performance and progress. Here are 10 top tips, including advice on gear and equipment, nutrition, hydration and training, to help you make the most out of your sessions on your bike.

1.Set Up Your Bike Correctly

Trying to ride a bicycle that is not set up correctly is like walking two steps forward and one step back. Everyone is different with respect to leg, arm and torso length, so visiting a specialist bike shop — where you can have your saddle, stem and handlebar positions adjusted so that the bike is effectively tailored to your body — is an extremely worthwhile exercise. A thorough bike-fit session can also aid your performance ensuring maximum efficiency.

2.Lighten The Load

For a commute or any form of cycle tour, you may need the capability to carry ample loads. The easy way to carry any sort of load on a bike is … on the bike, rather than on you! A small rucksack is fine if you’re carrying something extremely light, but otherwise it would be wise to invest in some panniers, a handlebar bag or seat-pack. There are some excellent bike-specific carrying systems on the market which will make your journey much easier.

3.Correct Kit Makes A Difference

A small investment in a few items of specialist bike kit will be extremely useful. The minimum items are:

Bike Helmet

An absolute must. Modern cycling helmets are lightweight and well ventilated, and can literally save your life in an accident. The likelihood is that a cyclist will sustain an injury in any kind of spill — so protecting your head should be your top priority. Why risk it?

Cycling Shorts

Seamless and chafe-free, proper cycling shorts won’t necessarily add to the enjoyment of your ride, but will prevent soreness from repeated rubbing and should be a key item in your cycling wardrobe.  


Basic Tools

A set of Allen keys, a puncture repair kit, tyre levers, a spare inner tube and a pump or inflator will keep you on the road. All you need to know is how to change a tyre and mend a puncture and you’re set up.


Cycling Sunglasses

Not for posing! Sunglasses are actually very useful for cyclists; they will keep dirt, dust, flies, and other debris out of your eyes, and if you choose a pair with interchangeable lenses then they can sharpen your vision in low light conditions, as well as cutting out glare and reflections.

4.Clipless Pedals

Clipless pedals, whereby you 'lock in' to your pedal by means of a cleat attached to your shoe, make a big difference to your pedalling efficiency because they enable you to pull up as well as push down. If you’ve not tried them before, start with toe-clips, which are easier to get used to and then progress to trying clipless shoes - after a while you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them!

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