The learning curve is something that we deal with all our lives. Every time we begin something new, there\’s that **** curve staring us in the face again!

Cycling, of course, is no exception. The learning curve for a beginning cyclist can seem steep and endless. I never rode much when I was a kid, so as an adult beginner I got the full brunt of it. I had no muscle memory to go on, and had to start from scratch.

An important part of learning how to ride a bike as an adult is: make up your mind that you won\’t let yourself feel silly; and that you won\’t let the occasional tumble embarrass you. I suspect that getting such mental blocks out of the way is actually physically helpful.

When I first got my hybrid, I started with glide biking. That activity is something that most people think is for young children; indeed, for toddlers! Thus my remark about deciding that you won\’t let yourself feel silly.

Don\’t feel that you must adhere to a certain time table, either. Take your time. Let your strength and handling skills build up before worrying about speed. After all, you don\’t want to get hurt and have to stay off the bike for several weeks!

Start with short, easy rides; long rides will come. Start learning about long-distance cycling well before that first long jaunt. Experiment with \”ride foods\”, electrolyte drinks, and so on. Figure out how to dress for various weather conditions.

Above all: Have Fun!