It’s never too late to start cycling again, and taking small steps can make a significant difference.
Has your bike been gathering dust? You’re not alone. Life gets busy—kids, work, health changes, or simply shifting priorities—and sometimes riding just… stops. But if you’ve been feeling the pull to get back in the saddle, this is your gentle nudge: you can start cycling again. And we’re here to help you do it with confidence, comfort, and a sense of community.
If you’re ready to start cycling again, you’re not alone—and we’ve got tips to help you begin with confidence.
First of All—It’s Okay to Feel Nervous
It’s never too late to start cycling again, and taking small steps can make a big difference.
Maybe you’re worried you’ve forgotten how to ride in traffic, or you're unsure if your fitness is up to it. Perhaps your body feels different now, and you’re wondering if cycling is still the right choice for you.
Here’s the truth: every woman who’s returned to riding has felt the same way. You’re not behind. You’re not too old. And you’re definitely not alone.
In fact, many of us at Birds on Bikes have had our own “start again” moments, so we know exactly how empowering (and emotional!) it can be.
Start Where You Are—Not Where You Were
Don’t worry about the rides you used to do. This is about today. Start with what feels manageable—even a 10-minute spin around the block is a win.
Pick a familiar, flat path or quiet back street
Focus on time, not distance
Ride at a pace that feels good
Celebrate showing up—not performance
There’s no right way to start cycling again. The only wrong move is never starting at all.
Your Body Is Not the Problem
Bodies change—especially after 40. You might feel slower, stiffer, or less strong than before. But that doesn’t mean you don’t belong on a bike.
Cycling is one of the most body-friendly ways to move:
It’s low impact and gentle on joints
You can build strength at your own pace
It supports mental clarity and mood
You don’t need to be “fit” to begin
Start cycling again now, exactly as you are. The rest will come.
You Deserve Gear That Supports You
Let’s be real— if your gear is uncomfortable, you’re not going to want to ride. Good padded knicks, a high-waisted fit, and a supportive jersey can make a world of difference.
At Birds on Bikes, we design cycling gear specifically for women who are getting back on the bike—who want comfort, support, and style—and who don’t fit the traditional cycling mould.
Our sizing ranges from 6 to 24, and every piece is designed by women, for women. You’ll feel supported, not squished. Strong, not self-conscious.
Australian Made.
Let Go of the Guilt
Maybe you’ve said, “I should be riding more,” or “I used to be better.”
Let’s stop right there.
You’re not starting over. You’re continuing your story —with more wisdom, strength, and perspective than ever.
There is no deadline. There is no competition. There is only now. And now is a great time to start cycling again.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
This part matters: community makes everything easier . Whether it’s riding with a friend, joining a local women’s cycling group, or finding support online—connection builds confidence.
That’s why we created Breakaway Birds, a Facebook group just for women like you. It’s full of encouragement, real talk, ride ideas, and a whole lot of heart.
No pressure. No ego. Just women lifting each other up , one ride at a time.
Let’s Make It Practical
Ready to ride again but not sure how to begin? Try this simple 3-step plan:
✅ Week 1: Roll Around
- Dust off the bike, check the brakes and tyres
- Go for a short 10–15 minute ride in your neighbourhood
- Wear comfy clothes or try your cycling gear again
✅ Week 2: Find Flow
- Add a ride along a local bike path or park
- Practice stopping and starting comfortably
- Notice how you feel after riding (stronger? lighter?)
✅ Week 3: Join In
- Invite a friend for a coffee ride
- Share your progress in the Breakaway Birds group
- Set a small goal like a weekend loop or sunrise spin
These small wins build confidence—and momentum.
Common Mental Blocks — and How to Break Through Them
It’s not just your legs or lungs holding you back—sometimes, your biggest obstacle is in your head.
That little voice that whispers:
❌ “It’s been too long.”
❌ “I’m not fit enough.”
❌ “I’ll look silly in lycra.”
❌ “Everyone else knows what they’re doing—except me.”
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. These are the invisible barriers so many women face when they want to start cycling again.
But here’s the truth: your doubts are not facts. They’re just old stories. And you get to write a new one.
💭 Mental Block: “I’m not fit enough to ride.”
You don’t need to be fit to ride. You ride to feel better. Start small. Even a gentle 10-minute roll around the block can shift your mood and spark your confidence.
💭 Mental Block: “I’ve left it too long.”
There’s no time limit on coming back to something you love. Your bike doesn’t care if it’s been five weeks or fifteen years—it’s ready when you are.
💭 Mental Block: “What will people think?”
We get it. Body changes, age, and confidence—these all play a role. But most people are too busy living their own lives to judge yours. And your joy matters more than someone else's opinion.
💭 Mental Block: “I’ll never ride the way I used to.”
That’s okay. This isn’t about comparison. It’s about creating a new relationship with riding—one that fits who you are now. And that version of you? She’s wise, strong, and doing it her way.
Here’s how to start breaking through:
✨ Be kind to yourself. That voice of doubt? Replace it with encouragement.
✨ Celebrate showing up. Just thinking about riding is a win. Reading this? Even bigger win.
✨ Find your why. Whether it’s freedom, fitness, or mental clarity, remember what brought you here.
Most importantly, know this: the hardest part isn’t the ride—it’s deciding to begin.
And you’ve already done that. 🚲
It’s Never Too Late. Really.
We’ve seen women start cycling again in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond.
What they all say?
“I wish I’d done this sooner.”
But now is perfect. Because you’re ready. And you’re not doing it alone.
Final Words from the Saddle
You are allowed to take up space. You are allowed to start again. You are allowed to feel amazing on a bike.
Whether it’s five minutes or fifty, that ride is for you. Let it remind you what you’re capable of.
🚲 Ready to Start Cycling Again?
- Explore gear made for women starting again→ Bottoms Collection
- Join the Breakaway Birds community → Facebook Group
- Need help picking your kit? → Contact Us
If you’re feeling ready to start cycling again, you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to support you —with gear that fits, a community that gets it, and encouragement every pedal stroke of the way.
Let’s get you back on the bike—confident, comfortable, and completely supported.
About the Author: Barbara Spooner
Barbara Spooner is the founder of Birds on Bikes , a brand dedicated to designing high-quality, Australian-made cycling apparel for women—especially those with curves. With a background in graphic design and ethical fashion , Barbara is passionate about creating inclusive, sustainable activewear that empowers women to ride in comfort and confidence. When she's not designing, she’s advocating for ethical manufacturing and supporting women in business.