While bicycle riding is an aerobic activity that can get your heart pumping, help you control your weight and provide a pleasant pastime, feelings of anxiety can detract from your enjoyment. Anxiety occurs for a variety of reasons. Situations that may lead to anxiety before a bicycle ride include social anxiety and pre-race jitters. Understanding the reasons for your anxiety and taking certain measures to decrease your feelings of discomfort can help you enjoy the sport of bicycling.
Symptoms
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time. Symptoms of anxiety include difficulty concentrating, fatigue, irritability and headache. Depending on the level and intensity of your anxiety before your ride, you may experience frightening symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and a fast heartbeat. Anxiety may cause you to break out in a sweat, making it even more important to hydrate your body before your bicycle ride.
Pre-race Jitters
Professional and beginner cyclists may experience pre-race jitters, also known as performance anxiety. This type of anxiety is common in individuals and usually appears in anticipation of an impending event, such as a test or a competition. Although uncomfortable, this type of stress can be beneficial. The increase in adrenaline can boost your mental alertness and ready your body for upcoming physical demands. Unfortunately, too much stress can affect your performance by causing negative emotions, muscle tightness and a decrease in self-confidence.
Anxiety Disorders
While pre-race jitters are a common cause of anxiety before cycling, psychological disorders can also lead to feelings of anxiety before your ride. Social anxiety can stem from the fear of others judging or scrutinizing your actions, as well as the possibility of public embarrassment. Riding in public places or riding with other people may cause the sensation of being the center of attention, a situation that can increase discomfort in individuals with social anxiety disorder or social phobia. General anxiety disorder is a condition that causes continual levels of anxiety for no apparent reason.
Solutions
Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, may help reduce the anxiety you feel before your ride. Proper nutrition and pre-ride equipment checks may also help you relax. Set realistic expectations before mounting your bike to take off unnecessary pressure. Professional help may also help reduce your level of pre-ride anxiety. Professional counseling or prescription medications may help you deal with your anxious thoughts and feelings, allowing you to enjoy riding your bike.
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