Is cycling the new golf?

March 18th 2017 | Categories: Retirement |

How do you plan to make the most of your retirement? Buy a yacht, travel the world? Once upon a time, the stereotypical retiree was clad in plaid and hitting the fairways. But now, there’s a fast-growing trend that could be the best way to stay active in your later years – cycling.

We’re not saying you have to become an Iron Man (or Iron Woman) – but a lot of people are picking up the two-wheeled habit.

Cycling in Australia, by the numbers

Roy Morgan data from 2015 shows that there were 3.71 million Australians who called themselves active cyclists. It’s not just a young man’s game either, as some 24 per cent of men between 50 and 64 went cycling regularly. While this drops to 13 per cent for people in retirement age, it’s a huge growth spurt in 2005 (when only 6 per cent of those 65+ went cycling).

Many Australians are taking to cycling as their preferred retirement pastime.

Western Australians and Victorians are the most eager to cycle, while Tasmanians are the least obliged to hop on. Across the board though, cycling participation is on the rise. Maybe it’s time for you to start?

Why cycling can be great for enjoying retirement

It’s speedy, it has a low impact on your body, and it’s fun – cycling is great on a number of fronts. You don’t have to break the bank to buy a bicycle, and it’s easy to fit into a daily routine. If you live near great shopping centres, cafes or parks then you can easily hop on the bike and enjoy an hour or two of gliding around.

Cycling is also fantastic for your health – you’ll improve your:

• General mobility and joint strength
• Posture, coordination and bone strength
• Muscle strength
• Cardiovascular health

And of course, you’ll tackle the most important ailment of all – boredom!

Costs of cycling

If you want an activity to fill up your days and help you enjoy retirement, the barriers to entry for cycling are very low. You don’t have to be a Tour de France winner – just able to jump on and pedal. Top of the line bikes might cost in excess of thousands, but you can often find second hand or comfort bikes for well under $200.

It can be difficult to find one that works for you and remember that you don’t need a mountain bike or a speed machine. You just want something that helps you relax and have a good time.

What you need to know

This information is provided by Invest Blue Pty Ltd (ABN 91 100 874 744). The information contained in this article is of general nature only and does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. Therefore, before making any decision, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice with regards to those matters and seek personal financial, tax and/or legal advice prior to acting on this information. Read our Financial Services Guide for information about our services, including the fees and other benefits that AMP companies and their representatives may receive in relations to products and services provided to you.