The statistics on New Year’s resolutions are disheartening. According to Forbes, less than 25% of people actually continue to pursue their resolution after just 30 days. Another study reveals that only 9.2% achieve improvement based on the resolution they planned. Don’t let these statistics intimidate you. Let them motivate you instead.

One of the reasons people fail to follow through with their resolutions is because their resolutions are maybe vague or unrealistic. From the following recommended New Year’s resolutions to improve your cycling game, check which ones you can address in 2022.

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1. Learn basic bike maintenance.

Increase your knowledge as a bike mechanic by taking an online course or going to your local shop to learn more maintenance skills. Your bike will perform better as you maintain it more. You can also save money when you learn to fix small problems yourself.

2. Clean your bike after every ride.

Dirt and grime from the road that gets stuck on your bike and dries up can destroy your equipment. Cleaning your bike right after every ride will make your components last longer and keep your bike operating smoothly.

3. Improve your bike handling.

Improving your bike handling skills such as holding your line on descents, looking behind you without swerving, and reaching for your bottle while pedaling will keep you safe and make you more confident.

4. Get better at climbing.

To get better in the mountains, you have to spend more time practicing pedaling to climb. Set a weekly elevation goal and gradually increase it with time.

5. Don’t let bad weather stop you.

Weather shouldn’t be an excuse to skip training or stop riding. Wear the right clothes and make a few modifications to your bike and you’ll find that riding in bad weather can be just as fun as it is during the summer months.

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6. Address your injuries.

Don’t live with chronic pain. Address your injuries. Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional.

7. Introduce a friend to mountain biking.

Take a friend or family member who has expressed interest in the sport under your wing and train them on the basics. Let them progress at their own speed.

8. Lose weight, stay fit.

If you’re looking to lose weight and stay healthy, getting on your bike more often is a good place to start.

9. Join a local cycling group.

It is a great way to improve on the bike while you meet new people. When joining group rides, make sure you choose the ride with the average speed and distance appropriate for you.

10. Give back to the cycling community.

Volunteer to build or maintain a trail, advocate for bike safety, or volunteer or donate to a youth cycling organization or at a race. The results from your efforts can be fulfilling.

Resolutions are meant to improve ourselves. When they become challenging, remember the purpose behind your resolutions and get back on the saddle.

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