When living with a chronic illness, trying new things can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a new hobby. In our "Accessible Hobbies" series, we will explore a variety of hobbies that are suitable for people living with long-term health conditions.
In this blog post, we will explore the positive effects of cycling and share some tips and tricks to make it as accessible as possible.
Why are hobbies important?
Research shows that people who regularly take part in hobbies feel less stressed and show fewer signs of depression. This is important for everyone, especially those living with a long-term illness.
No matter your passions, interests, or physical ability, there is a hobby for everyone. The most important thing is that it's fun and meaningful to you.
Why should you try an e-bike?
Spending time outdoors can do wonders for your mental health. Studies show that regular access to green spaces not only lowers the risk of depression but also enhances sleep quality and concentration.
E-bikes could offer that extra bit of support you need to get outdoors. Traditional pedal bikes are often too strenuous for people living with chronic illnesses, but e-bikes can help to keep any exercise at a tolerable level. This is important for people living with limitations, as physical activity has been shown to be 1.5 times more effective than counselling or medications when improving one's mental health.
Using an e-bike, riders can reclaim a sense of independence and access places that would typically be too far to walk to on foot. This can be particularly useful for younger people who may feel uncomfortable using physical aids such as mobility scooters.
If you take to cycling, you could find a local cycling group. These groups can provide support and help you meet new people who share similar interests.
Accessibility
With the use of pedal assist or throttle control, riders can control amount of exercise and keep it at a level that's right for them.
Many individuals with POTS, chronic fatigue, and other chronic conditions often worry about walking too far and potentially feeling stranded after overexerting themselves. E-bikes provide a solution, as riders can rely on the bike's motor to return home safely, giving them peace of mind during their outings.
Ways to make cycling more accessible:
It's important to pace yourself when you're first getting started. On your first ride, just use the throttle and avoid pedaling. This will help you assess how your body responds to being upright and balancing for long periods of time.
Over your first few rides, gradually increase the distance you travel to see how much exercise your body can tolerate. This will help you avoid burnout and find a comfortable pace that's right for you.
It’s important to consider the terrain where you’ll be riding. Choosing the right bike for your environment can greatly enhance your experience and comfort level.
Buyers guide
Before you purchase your first e-bike, there are a few things you'll need to know so you can find the one that's right for you. A few things to look out for:
Power: In England, e-bikes are restricted to 250w motors, which makes it challenging for them to climb hills without some extra pedaling. However, you can find more powerful options available for purchase online if you are willing to bend the rules. There have recently been proposed changes to the government regulation to raise the motor limit to 500w.
If you live outside the UK/EU, there are several common wattage options for e-bike motors, including 250 watts, 350 watts, 500 watts, and 750 watts. Higher wattage offers more support for uphill climbs and high-speed travel.
Size: There are e-bikes of all shapes and sizes. If you plan on travelling with a bike in your car, you may want to opt for a foldable option. Alternatively, larger bikes may offer bigger batteries or improved comfort and stability.
Weight: E-bikes are heavy due to their large batteries. If you plan on lifting the bike into your car, make sure it's not too heavy before making your purchase.
Pedal assist and Throttle: There are two main ways an e-bike is powered: pedal assist and throttle. Pedal assist is self-explanatory; as you pedal, the bike's motor will provide additional power, making the riding experience easier. This is typically adjustable, allowing you to select the level of assistance that's right for you.
Bikes with a throttle can be powered without pedalling, letting the motor do all the work. This can be ideal for people with more debilitating symptoms. Most bikes that use a throttle will also have the option of pedal assist.
Use: Before you purchase a bike, consider how and where you will be using it. Does it need to be portable and fit into a vehicle? Or are you looking for something with off-road tires and suspension? There's a wide variety of options, many with crossover features, so don't be afraid to look around for a while before you find one that's right for you.
Click here for my review of the Fiido D3 Pro Mini
Final note
I hope after checking out this blog, readers will feel inspired to pick up a new hobby or rekindle an old one from the past. It's important to remember that even though you are living with limitations, they create a unique space to find joy in the small things. Those limitations might just help you stumble upon a new passion you never would have discovered otherwise.
My Experience: Riding an e-bike with Dysautonomia
Since my diagnosis of post-COVID dysautonomia in 2021, finding ways to get outside and exercise has been difficult. After looking online, I realised an e-bike could help me go further without straining myself or needing to rely on a wheelchair.
To read about my blog post about riding an e-bike with dysautonomia click the image above.
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