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clue what sort of bike you need, let alone how to use all of the kit properly. But since getting myself on that first ride, I've found confidence, community, and connection through cycling, not to mention countless physical and mental health benefits, too.
As an 11x marathon runner, I'm no stranger to an intensive workout that requires commitment. But after a broken foot meant I had to put a pause on my regular marathon training schedule, I needed to find a form of cardio that would scratch the itch without the pressure on my feet. That's where cycling came in. Not only is it a brilliant cardio workout that improves heart health and boosts lower body strength, but it's a sport that takes you outdoors and encourages a sense of community—which kept me riding long after my foot had healed.
I Was a Cycling Novice—Here’s How I Found Confidence, Community and Connection in Riding Together
“In-store experts can recommend the best model for you and build and check your bike so you're ready to hit the road.”
D
Get
to Ride.
THE GOAL: Outdoorsy moments, quality time and to celebrate a milestone
espite being a Health Editor who loves all things movement, I've historically felt slightly intimidated by the world of cycling. Living in London, getting out on the road takes a fair amount of confidence—especially as a novice with no
Ready
The first step for me was selecting the perfect bike from Halfords, followed by deciphering the other kit I needed, and then—most importantly—building a community to ride alongside. You only need one other person to cycle with to show you that it's a much more accessible and beginner-friendly workout than you might think, and no one knows that better than Sophie, a content creator who's passionate about encouraging other women into cycling. She shared invaluable beginner-friendly advice with me when I first started out, demystifying some of the barriers that kept me from cycling.
If you've always considered cycling but have been searching for the confidence to get going, allow this to be your foolproof guide to making the sport a part of your routine.
How to choose a bike
The very first hurdle to overcome is finding the ideal bike for you, and making sure it fits correctly. I can say from experience that getting on a bike that was the right size, weight, and had all the necessary features was the biggest thing that made me feel confident cycling—and made me want to get back on the road after my first ride.
If you've never cycled before, you probably have no clue where to start with bike shopping. I was in the same boat, which was why I turned to Halfords for their expertise. Not only can the in-store experts recommend the best model for you based on your needs and ability, but they also build and check your bike for just £15 so you're ready to hit the road.
You'll want to consider the terrains you'll be cycling on and any features you'd like your bike to have before buying. After chatting with the Halfords team about what I was after, I settled on the Carrera Zelos Women's Road Bike for its price point and versatility. But if you have a bigger budget or want something more advanced, there are countless options to choose from.
THE Destination: The Four Seasons, Hampshire
THE GOAL: Outdoorsy moments, quality time and to celebrate a milestone
THE Destination: The Four Seasons, Hampshire
What you need for your first ride
Although it might seem as though cycling requires a hefty amount of equipment, there really isn't a lot you need for a successful first ride—apart from a few non-negotiables.
Ensure that you have a helmet that properly fits, a water bottle to keep you hydrated, and a bottle cage to store it for easy access.
Other than that, trust me: you'll figure out any additional equipment that might make you more comfortable with each ride.
By Ally Head
What to wear
I'm a firm believer in wearing workout kit that makes you feel comfortable, confident and supported, no matter what type of exercise you're doing. Although there are no hard-and-fast rules about exactly what to wear, there are a few things I swear by for a smooth ride with zero chafing or discomfort.
My biggest non-negotiable is a pair of moisture-wicking cycling shorts that are long enough to prevent any chafing around your thighs when you're riding. Paired with a supportive sports bra and a breathable top, you'll avoid overheating, excess sweat, or rubbing (bonus points if it has pockets to slot your phone, keys and snacks in). I also always ride with a pair of cycling glasses to protect from the sun. With these pieces of kit on, I feel prepared for any length of cycle.
How to feel more confident on the road
“My biggest piece of advice is to remember that confidence on the bike doesn’t come before you start cycling, it comes from doing it,” says Sophie.
“You don’t need to feel completely ready or know absolutely everything before heading out for the first time. Start small and take the pressure off. A quiet route, a short ride in a familiar area and no expectation to go fast or far is often the best way to build confidence on the bike.
“Everyone was a beginner once, and you’re allowed to take your time learning. The more you ride, the more those things that once felt intimidating—like understanding gears or riding on the road—start to feel completely normal,” says Sophie.
Finding a community
When I talk about building a cycling community, I don't necessarily mean joining an established group or recruiting masses of friends before you go out for a ride. Although these can be brilliant for building confidence and getting started, there are plenty of ways to find community through cycling if you're feeling a little intimidated and want to ease yourself in.
I started off by riding with just one other friend who had been cycling for a while, and having someone there to answer any worries I had, help me find a smooth route, and chat to me mid-ride (plus grab a coffee and slice of cake afterwards) made all the difference for my motivation. It made me feel much less intimidated by the roads and other cyclists, and increased my confidence, which in turn made for a much more effective and enjoyable ride.
Despite everyone having their own bike, cycling is a surprisingly sociable sport where people love to help fellow riders and have company while they exercise. It didn't take long for me to feel comfortable on cycle routes among more seasoned cyclists, and the sense of camaraderie definitely helped me grow into a more self-assured rider too. It's one of my favourite things about cycling, and it helps me get outside on the days I'm feeling a little sluggish and need a boost to get on the bike. So, what are you waiting for?
“Everyone was a beginner once. The more you ride, the more those things that once felt intimidating start to feel completely normal.”
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Halfords Plastic Bottle Cage, £6.00
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Halfords Road Cycle Helmet,
£30.00
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Elite Fly Tex Bottle 550ml, £7.00
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Carrera Zelos Womens Road Bike, £385
