Setting and achieving new goals is always a good idea! If 2022 is your year to raise the bar and focus on bettering yourself, then we’re here to cheer you on and even offer some guidance along the way!
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For many, the goal is to be healthier, but let’s get specific. We’re going to bike more, so that we move more, so that we also take care of our mental well-being and also help our communities and on an even larger scale, the world.
That’s a lofty claim, isn’t it? Let us zoom out and break down the benefits of biking for you, your community, and how cycling can make significant positive impacts on our world.
We’re sure you already know the benefits that come with opting to take 2 wheels instead of 4:
- Amping up your daily mobility and calorie-burn
- Improved posture, balance and coordination
- Strengthening your joints and bones
- Lowering your cholesterol
- Improved mental well-being - connecting with nature as well your reduced traffic-anxiety, that’s why!
- Increased exposure and absorption of Vitamin D
- There are of course many more benefits but these are just to name a few.
- Reduces traffic and congestion; therefore also adding more time to your day since you’ll spend less time idling in traffic jams
- Swapping one car-ride with your bike, just once a day, decreases your carbon footprint by 67% (Source)
- If more people biked, we’d save more greenspace by building less roads
- There would be less air and noise pollution
- What would you add to this list?
If you’re new to this, a casual enthusiast, or a pro-cyclist, and you’re thinking of upping your cycling this year but not sure what to set your sights on, here are some suggestions for all levels of bikers:
Setting and achieving new goals is always a good idea! If 2022 is your year to raise the bar and focus on bettering yourself, then we’re here to cheer you on and even offer some guidance along the way!
For many, the goal is to be healthier, but let’s get specific. We’re going to bike more, so that we move more, so that we also take care of our mental well-being and also help our communities and on an even larger scale, the world.
That’s a lofty claim, isn’t it? Let us zoom out and break down the benefits of biking for you, your community, and how cycling can make significant positive impacts on our world.
We’re sure you already know the benefits that come with opting to take 2 wheels instead of 4:
- Amping up your daily mobility and calorie-burn
- Improved posture, balance and coordination
- Strengthening your joints and bones
- Lowering your cholesterol
- Improved mental well-being - connecting with nature as well your reduced traffic-anxiety, that’s why!
- Increased exposure and absorption of Vitamin D
There are of course many more benefits but these are just to name a few.
We are even so bold as to say cycling more helps your community and the world:
- Reduces traffic and congestion; therefore also adding more time to your day since you’ll spend less time idling in traffic jams
- Swapping one car-ride with your bike, just once a day, decreases your carbon footprint by 67% (Source)
- If more people biked, we’d save more greenspace by building less roads
- There would be less air and noise pollution
What would you add to this list?
If you’re new to this, a casual enthusiast, or a pro-cyclist, and you’re thinking of upping your cycling this year but not sure what to set your sights on, here are some suggestions for all levels of bikers:
Making the conscious decision to leave your car at home and hop on your bike has major environmental benefits. To make this decision much easier we recommend outfitting your bike with a Po Campo handlebar bag or trunk bag. These can live on your bike and will give you easy access to your water bottle, cash, cards or any other carry-alongs for your quick-trips.
Did you know that the easiest way to build a habit is to remove any friction that stands between you and the desired outcome? In a scientific study on habit formation it was found that if you remove any obstacle or strategize to simplify the process you will be more successful in the creation of a good habit. Friction can be measured by time, effort, or distance. In this scenario you’re reducing your efforts, by having a built-in storage solution on your bike, you’ll never have to spend time packing a backpack prior to commuting on your bike. You’re ready to gear-up and go!
TAKE A BIKE OR CAR-FREE VACATION!
Travel abroad or stay local, there are so many opportunities to enjoy a car-free vacation. You can arrive to your destination by car or plane, but once there chuck the keys and get ready for an adventure.
Here are some US Destinations worthy of hitching that bike to your rack, or even easier, just rent one when you get there:
- Great Alegheny Passage (GAP) - This 150 mile bike trail wends its way between Cumberland, MD and Pittsburg, Penn. Explore forgotten railroads, old mines, and maybe even a waterfall. Check out this article for a luxe glamping guide through the Rust Belt. For a trip of this nature we recommend our Mardy Backpack Pannier!
- Lopez Island, Washington State - 45 minutes from Seattle is a quaint island with shops, art galleries, vineyards and parks all within walking or biking distance. Shermans Travel lists many US bike friendly vacation destinations, but this one is so idyllic.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico - For the most breathtaking views, make sure to hit the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway. The Santa Fe Metropolitan Planning Organization has removed the friction (😉) and created maps of the area’s bikeways. Check out this Fodors Article for more US Biking destinations.
TRAIN FOR AN ATHLETIC EVENT
(like a triathlon or amateur bike race)
If you’re planning on tackling a triathlon, improve your race times, or maybe train for your first race, we suggest breaking down the major goal into smaller more manageable mini milestones. This a great way to achieve success and smash those goals.
Here are some Po Campo products that can help with your training:
- Hudson Saddle Bag - this bag quickly fastens to the underside of your saddle with super-strong fastener straps and helps you stay sleep and aerodynamic.
- Potassium is known to prevent muscle cramps. While training help keep your potassium source smush free with our protective banana case.
- Stay Hydrated. Our 21oz Insulated water bottle will keep your liquids refreshingly cold for up to 24 hours.
Find and commit to a race near you by going to USA Cycling’s Event page. Let us know in the comments which race you’re commiting to conquering this year!
CONVERT YOUR COMMUTE
The last couple of years has definitely seen an increase in micromobility (transportation over short distances provided by lightweight, usually single-person vehicles, for example, bicycles and scooters).
Joining the millions that already commit to the new commute will boost your mood and of course have those positive health benefits! Here are some tips to get you started:
- Do a dry-run. Before you actually head to the office, do a weekend dry-run at an easy pace to map your route and to track how much time you’ll need.
- Using a backpack to carry your lunch, change of clothes, etc may cause “sweaty back”. Po Campo’s stylish and convertible panniers and bags offer the perfect solution! Check out our Buyer’s Guide: What Type Of Bike Bag Should I Get?
- Safety First! Be vigilant and watch for parked car doors that may swing open. Late night at the office? Our City Lights Collection is made using the world’s first reflective hemp fabric. Don’t forget to pack our rechargeable clip-on Bike Lights for extra visibility during dusk and nightfall.
Want even more suggestions, our friends at Cycling Weekly has a full list of recommended New Year's resolutions for cyclists of all types and experience levels. What are some of your biking goals for this year?
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Hit the road on a cycling vacation
