I am a die-hard rider. Unless it’s raining, I consistently ride at least three times a week. I get withdrawal if I am separated from my steed for an extended period of time. I didn’t always like taking vacations where I couldn’t ride. However, I have come to understand that taking an occasional break from riding benefits me as a rider. Here are five reasons why you should take a vacation away from the trails every now and then.
Your body gets the recovery time it needs
Week after week of hard riding takes a toll physically. Joints ache, and muscles hurt. If riders don’t take an occasional break from riding, they might reach a point when their bodies don’t give them a choice in the matter. Give yourself a rest from riding every now and then by vacationing away from trails. The recovery time will leave you feeling rejuvenated, and allow you to ride even harder when you get back to riding.
[see_also id=’258613′]
You can inject variety into your fitness
Engaging in the same physical activity on a constant basis only works certain muscles, while neglecting others. Doing different activities helps you make gains in your overall fitness level. I use vacations away from the trails as opportunities to engage in other activities like swimming, running, and body boarding. These activities work different muscle groups, and give me well-rounded workouts. Additionally, they make me feel stronger and faster when I get back on my bike.
[see_also id=’213533′]
You Can Take Care Of Bike Maintenance
For riders who do not have the time or skill to do their own maintenance, a vacation away from the trails gives your local bike shop time to complete more labor-intensive maintenance tasks, like servicing suspension, without requiring missed rides. I drop my bike off at my local bike shop before I leave on vacation. Unless there’s an unexpected issue, it’s usually ready to go when I get back. It’s a great way to address much-needed maintenance while not losing any riding time.
[see_also id=’51425′]
You have time to study up on the sport
Did you see a new bike, but haven’t had time to read any reviews on it? Curious about a new dropper post, but can’t find the time to research it online? If you’re like me, you lead a busy life. My daily routine leaves me little time to research new products, or consider the pros and cons of slacker head angles and wider bars. So I make time during my vacations to learn more about the sport I love. I study up on the latest trends, and read reviews on bikes or products that pique my curiosity. It’s a great opportunity to spend time learning about the sport, even if you can’t ride.
[see_also id=’244517′]
Absence makes the heart grow fonder
It’s hard for me to take a break from riding, but doing so on an occasional basis is vital. It increases my passion for the sport. It also gives my body much needed rest, and allows me to do other activities that make me a more well-rounded athlete. I am a better rider when I don’t ride all the time.
How does taking a vacation from riding benefit you as a rider? Please share in the comments section below.
