One of the best ways of living a long and healthy life is through regular exercise

German research has found that people who became physically active after 40 were 55% less likely to develop heart disease than people who were inactive. Being active not only improves your physical well being but also your emotional wellbeing.  Cycling is an excellent way to get fit, stay healthy and reverse some effects of ageing. The more active you are the more oxygen that flows through your body and to the brain, which all leads to a happier and healthier you. 

Getting started
If you have not cycled for a long time and have not been active it is important to consult your doctor and start slowly and gradually increase your riding, don't go on 10km ride the first day.

Your local bike shop can assist you in selecting a bike which meets your need and ensures that you are comfortable.

For more tips on getting started

Don't like riding in traffic?
Finding places to ride used to be a real problem. Fortunately councils and state Governments are building more and more off road cycleways which are free off traffic and are great places to build up your confidence. Contact your council and ask if you have a map of their off road cycleways. Alternatively contact your state cycling organisation and ask them for tips on places to ride in your region.

Don't like riding by yourself?
Finding a friend or cycling group to ride with will double your enjoyment and is a great way to keep motivated to ride regularly.  Click here to find a cycling club or bicycle user group in your area. 

Looking for places to ride and to get away?
Australia is slowly creating wonderful cycleways in regional Australia including Railtrails which are shared-use paths recycled from abandoned railway corridors. They can be used for walking, cycling and horse riding. Most trails have a gravel or dirt surface suitable for walking, mountain bikes and horses. Some are sealed and are great for touring bikes too. To find out more about Railtrails click here to visit the Railtrails Australia website.

Interested in more information about cycling in your state, such as places to ride, people to ride with, road rules, books to read?
We have developed fact sheets for each state so you can spend less time searching for information and more time cycling. Remember once your active, you will find that you have more energy, sleep better, feel more self-confidence, have reduced stress levels and you can more easily control your weight, blood pressure and cholesterol. Get on your bike today.