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Even if you live in the big capitals, it is possible to ride a bicycle. Of course, always taking due care

As children, most of us learned to ride a bicycle. This learning process can be quick or not, but it doesn't matter, because the joy is contagious the moment we sit on the bench and start pedaling. And the simplicity of the bicycle ends up being its charm compared to other means of transport. The feeling of being free in the air and not in a four-door “box”; the practice of aerobic exercise, which is beneficial to health; the practicality; the zero emission of carbon dioxide, or even as an ally in the increased concentration of children at school, among other unique characteristics, make the bike conquer more and more fans, especially young people.

For these and other reasons, it is necessary that learning to ride a bike is passed on to the new generations that are starting life. Even if you live in the big capitals, where there is a predominance of cars, it is possible to ride a bicycle. Of course, it is always necessary to take due care, such as the use of equipment, avoiding large circulation roads and respecting cars and pedestrians. And if you want to teach someone or learn to ride a bike, follow below some basic tips on how to start cycling:

buy a bike

The best bike, as the saying goes, is yours... or your neighbor's. So if you already have one, don't think about buying a new one, but it's worth taking it to a local specialty store for maintenance;

start small

To begin learning, you must be comfortable on your bike. Over time, you will improve. In the beginning, travel short distances: go to the nearest square, walk around the block, visit the neighbor. And always try to practice during periods when the streets are quieter, so you can walk without major worries;

learn the rules

Always wear a helmet. Be predictable, check ahead for cars and check that the traffic lights are closed, especially when you're going to make a bigger move, such as turning or entering a street. Look both ways at intersections and streets and avoid high traffic routes, especially if you live in major capitals. Don't go against traffic because the accident will be frontal; do not get tangled up in the middle of parked cars and look for a group of cyclists and, if possible, accompany them, because that way you feel safer and more relaxed;

Get a friend or two to ride with you

It's more fun when you have someone to talk to during the tour, especially when that person has more experience than you. You can exchange experiences and knowledge during the ride and even one can help each other when necessary;

Ask for help whenever needed

It's okay if you don't have experience. For example: if a street is not suitable for cycling, ask the nearest person for alternative routes. Go to a bike store and see if they have lights, reflectors or even safety advice. Adjust the seat and handlebars according to your size, for more security;

Try to avoid high traffic roads due to high levels of pollution

Sensor meters that monitor the air quality and show the pollution rate in real time through the screen of any smartphone can be a good choice. These devices are able to detect the levels of ozone, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, pollutants most commonly found in the smoke of motorized means of transport. Another reason why you should avoid these routes is that exercising in large cities is harmful to your health due to the emissions of motor vehicles - in addition to the pollution they cause, their movement represents a high risk of running over the cyclist;

with some experience

After getting some practice, use the bike to commute to work at least once a week. Go to your friend's house on a bike. On weekends, take trails, explore new places, increase your frequency of use, seek out groups of cyclists who cycle weekly, and rent bikes on the subway.

Create challenges for yourself, like cycling in different climates, in unfamiliar places, longer paths. Ride in formal clothes and learn to carry objects.

With all these tips in mind, it's time to get down to business!