Cycling 2010: It’s really gonna roll

Mark Pawlak    Adventure Sports & Travel Thoughts     cycling, olympics

Today a celebrity team, which included Little Britain star David Walliams, comedian Jimmy Carr and celebrity compare Davina McColl, finished a John ‘O’ Groats to Land’s End  Sport Relief Challenge. Whilst the stars may now be resting, cycling as a sport is just getting started; it’s got to be the sport due to expand the fastest this year.

Forget for now the Olympic spandex events and the mountain goat-like achievements of Tour de France riders; cycling is the sport of the masses. Football may have more fans and cricket more wickets, but cycling is the people’s sport. Why? Because ignoring the price of a set of wheels it is free – roads and paths are paid for by taxation; it is inclusive – anyone can learn to ride; it is arguably the most eco-friendly sport there is – it takes cars off the road and let’s face it, despite politicians getting in on the act, it is still cool.

Day-to-day cycling in a city takes some guts too. Cars are fast and drivers not always in tune with the ways of the rider. Pedestrians are also dangerous. While much softer on impact, they are less predictable and commonly blighted, and shortsighted by the cursed MP3 player affliction that is tunnel vision. Music on, head down, cross road, senses muffled, look left, few more steps, look right into the forks of a flying single-speeder.

Despite its dangers, the fitness benefits of cycling are phenomenal – and all with zero impact on those knee, hip and ankle joints already whittled by running and rugby.

The government recently funded hundreds of new cycle instructors, Transport for London is soon to launch its bike loan scheme and cycle paths are appearing almost everywhere. Whether it is for fashion or fitness, transport to the pub or a longer cycling holiday abroad, in 2010 two wheels is the big deal.

About the author

Mark Pawlak wrote 170 articles on this blog.

Editor at Adventure Sports Holidays, Mark's love affair with travel and the challenges of adventure sports continues... "You could save all year for a two-week, all-inclusive, doss by the pool, booze and buffet binge. Or, with a little planning and some good equipment, get off your arse and plan an adventure!"

• Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook

Related posts:

1. Are headphones putting your senses on pause?
2. Cycling: The largest sports family?
3. Outdoor Activities: Can indoor sports compete?

If you enjoyed this article please consider sharing it!