Sunday 19 May 10am-5pm
Pittville Park (Tommy Taylor’s lane)
1 – It’s free!
Run by the community cycling clubs and Cheltenham Borough Council, the Cheltenham Festival of Cycling event on Sunday 19 May is completely free and offers so much. Positioned at either side of Tommy Taylor’s lane, Pittville Park there’s cyclocross racing, junior bike coaching and obstacle sessions, a fleet of adapted bikes to try out, the police will be on hand offering bike marking and bike locks for sale, refreshments stalls will be available, chiropractors and sports therapists are on hand to soothe and restore and there will be so much for the kids to do, arts and crafts, have-a-go sessions and more!
2 – Cycling improves mental well-being
Did you know it’s mental health awareness week? Mental health problems can affect anyone, at any time. This year the Mental Health Foundation are looking at body image – how we feel and think about our bodies. Last year 30% of all adults have felt so stressed by body image and appearance that they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope. That’s almost 1 in every 3 people.
Exercise can boost your mood: there’s the basic release of adrenalin and endorphins, and the improved confidence that comes from achieving new things. Cycling combines physical exercise with being outdoors and exploring new views with like-minded people. We’ve got lots on at the festival, so if you are willing, come along, get on the saddle and find out more on Sunday!
3 – Cycling builds muscle
The resistance element of cycling means that it doesn’t just burn fat: it also builds muscle – particularly around the glutes, hamstrings, quads, and calves. So if you want to develop and hone those, cycling is the sport for you! Find out more about muscle development and how to look after it from the sports therapists who will be on hand offering free advice, treatments and discounts.
4 – Cycling saves time
We all know the benefits of cycling a short journey, it can save time, cash on fuel and save air pollutants. Lots of companies encourage their employees to walk, cycle or use public transport, find out more from your employer they may even have a cycle to work scheme. Retailers at the festival will be offering expert advice and some ‘on the day’ offers.
5 – Cycling builds a social circle
Cycling is a great sociable sport. The culture for many clubs like Crickley flyers sees groups getting together and gearing up on the weekend, riding out the intensity of the week, grabbing some time with friends and helping each other out (when you get the inevitable puncture). With so many clubs all in one place it’s the ideal time to come and chat to us and find out what we can offer you!