You may think of cycling as a solitary sport with the occasional group or club ride. However, there are a ton of couples that use cycling as way to spent time together, for better or worse. Cycling with your partner can strengthen your relationship (when done right), and it can become something that brings the two of you together. Exercise has been proven to benefit your own health and mental well-being, so why not bring you relationship into it!?
For some couples, it can become a running joke that the bike always comes first. Or, if one is a stronger cyclist than the other, it can become a source of tension. You’ll want to make sure you’re on the same page before heading out on a ride together, so that it can be enjoyable for both of you. Once you figure out what works best for the two of you, the benefits will far outweigh the downsides.
Cycling With Your Partner: Couples that ride together, stay together.
Shared Interest & Goals
Regular rides with your partner will result in shared experiences. When your interests and goals begin to align, it can remove tension and stress. When the weekend rolls around one of you won’t be trying to sneak in a ride while leaving the other at home, but instead it can be something you plan to do together. Sign up for a race or choose a goal that would be achievable for both of you, and start working towards it. Once you get there, you’ll be side-by-side and all the better for it.
Quality Time Together
Between work, family time, and everything in between, it can be tough to find time to spend together. Combining your hobby or exercise routine with time spent with your significant is not only efficient, but it can increase your emotional bond. When you ride together, you are in a way coordinating your actions. You’re moving in the same direction, with the same movements, and matching your pace can create a connection that goes beyond you time spent in the saddle.
Gifts made easy
It’s easy to buy gift for someone that you share interests with, because you can get something that you would like! If you’re riding together regularly, you’ll know just what they’ll want for that birthday or anniversary present, making your life a whole lot easier.
Accountability and Better Rides!
When you care about each other’s fitness, it’s a whole lot easier to keep each other motivated. Not only will you be more likely to get out riding, but once you’re out there you have accountability in the form of your partner. You can cheer each other on to push to the top of that hill or keep those legs spinning when all you want to do is quit. If you know each other’s goals, then you can not only have mutual support, but respect as well.
Knee Pads & Roses – A Singletrack Valentine from Pivot Cycles on Vimeo.
If your partner doesn’t cycle, but has expressed interest, then now is your chance to cash in on all these benefits. Cycling with your partner can be a great way to spend time together, maintain fitness, and even challenge each other. If you’re not sure how to get your partner into cycling, check out “How To Get Your Spouse Into Cycling,” for some tips.