Cycling is a fun way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Lalanthi and Dharshini from Pedal Pushers with their members have been doing it for more than 5 years now. They also answered some questions that beginners may have, to help them start riding for fitness.

How often do you ride per week?

“We ride semi off road on Tuesday mornings and Wednesday nights. Saturday and Sunday mornings are for off-road rides. Special holidays and poya days are for our out of town rides; be it a road ride to Galle or Kandy or epic off-road ride in the jungles of Analobdhawa with kayaking, camping or exciting rides  in the rain forest in Kitulgala.” 

So riding 3 to 4 times a week, even on a track is necessary to maintain fitness. 

“We also organise rides for only ladies that are specially organised to encourage more females to cycle. And these rides are done once a month.” 

Pedal Pushers also have special introductory programmes for beginners.

“We also conduct newbie rides. Organised with a demonstration on 'get to know your bike ' with an easy training off-road route to give cyclists a chance to experience the awesomeness of pedal power.”

7 pointers for beginners

1. Fitness and fun are all part of cycling. If you are already cycling you are only getting fitter. 
    
2. Hydration is very important, before and after a ride. Drink water before you start to feel thirsty. Sipping water from a hydration pack is a good way to avoid dehydration.
    
3. Stretching after cycling will help reduce any stiffness in the muscles. A few good yoga stretches will benefit for flexibility.
    
4. General cycling attire should be comfortable. Nothing baggy and too loose. Padded shorts and a snug t-shirt work fine. Nothing flapping that will snag on branches and twigs. Clothes made out of Lycra are best if you are not shy about your shape! Gloves and covered shoes are good protection for your hands and feet. 
    
5. Safety tips – Luminous clothing for night cycling is a must. Cycles should be fitted with a strong night light and blinkers. A helmet is very important at all times. 
    
6. It's also a good to learn about bike maintenance. Changing tubes and fixing jumped chains is something you should learn with time. Carry patch kits and a tool kit, extra tube and a small pump. Most bike shops will have these items. 
    
7. It's also very important that your bike fits your height. When buying your bike, ask for assistance from the people at the shop or go with someone who can help you out. 

Riding for a cause

“Our love for cycling has also given us the opportunity to help our community and people. Currently we are renovating 'Sandaa Sevana' elders’ home in Beddegana, which we found by chance while cycling. 

This project was possible thanks to Sanji Desilva and Varuni Fernando, we are grateful for their support and commitment. To the architects Mutiara Tegal, Roshika for designing a practical and economical structure which will be home to 13 elderly disabled men. Thank you to Walkers Plc, Rocelle and Dulux for their support. We as group cyclists lend our support for charity and worthy causes.”

If you have any further questions or want to join, contact them through their official ‘Pedal Pushers’ page on Facebook.