For people in the United States, the idea of a bunch of grown men on bicycles pedaling through the countryside might not seem like a big deal. Worse yet, there might even be gross misjudgment in place that makes it seem like a delicate or easy endeavor to participate in.

The biggest mistake that people make when thinking about The Tour de France is thinking the race just lasts for a couple of days, or is actually not that long, but is spread out time-wise. In reality, the race is thousands of miles long, usually lasts for 21 days of continuous riding, and has been known not just to span France, but the surrounding countries, too. Riders have to navigate some of the steepest and most dangerous roads in France, and must be in peak physical shape to even think about doing a good job.

In fact, a number of riders have actually not survived The Tour de France, whether it was succumbing to heart attacks after ingesting methamphetamine while climbing part of the hills, or simply not being able to keep a bicycle on the road in times of great exhaustion. Riding the race has been compared to running in a marathon non-stop for a month, and it’s no wonder why this seems an appropriate description once viewers take a single look at those treacherous mountain passes.

Though most of the accidents seem to occur during stretches through crowded mountain areas, as well as on the more hilly terrain, the race isn’t all climbing and sprinting down mountains. There is a substantial amount of distance endurance riding through moderately hilly countryside, as well as some of the most famous stretches in cities, including that final lap through Paris, where thousands of locals and visitors congregate to see their favorite rider pass through and complete his epic race through France.

Aside from that, the race is known for being daunting emotionally, since much time is spent alone, unsure of one’s standing in the race, and dealing with the very real thought that, after the next hundred miles, 900 more are waiting. It takes a lot out of anyone, even a famous bicyclist, to compete in this race.

And while Americans might not have historically cared very much about bicycle racing, that all changed in recent years.. Not only were all of the Americans hanging on the daily results, but there was a huge rise in the popularity of long distance bicycling. Ever since this historic reign of terror, interest in the race has been the standard.

That one rider, who beat not only The Tour but also managed to triumph over cancer, is none other than Lance Armstrong. At the top of his game, truly, the man managed to win The Tour De France seven times in a row, often far ahead of the other riders. Armstrong is not just a legend to those in his home country, but also to many Europeans, who begrudgingly accepted him as one of the greatest cyclist of our time, and are just as excitedly rooting for him as he takes on the course as they are when their home country favorites whiz by.

And finally the Americans understand what it is that the French, the Swiss, the Italians, and so many others have been enjoying for years and years, since the races’ humble beginnings almost a hundred years ago. It’s not about the sport of bicycling, so much, it’s about the idea of a single person, on their own on the side of a mountain, trying to last until tomorrow. The physical and mental endurance of taking on a race that lasts almost a month is legendary, and no matter what the vehicle, worthy of a great deal of applause.

Damian Papworth, an enthusiastic cyclist knows how crucial hydration is in the sport, at all levels. For this reason, he published the Cycling Water Bottle website, giving free advice on bicycle water bottles

The lack of attention paid to cycling does not reflect a lack of importance or deserving. In fact, the sport is extremely interesting to follow and truly beneficial to practice.

The bike itself was invented as a means of transport. Beyond the function of getting riders from one place to another, it also serves as a primary piece of equipment in sport and athletics.

Cycling has not always been a minor sport. In fact, cycling races date back to the 19th century. The Tour de France, which began in 1903, is a reminder of the “Golden Age of Cycling” which took place around the world from the 1890s to the 1950s. Since that time, the sport has faded from the headlines. Nevertheless, competition continues.

Racing and competition in cycling can take place in various formats. Road races, indoor competitions and mountain bike races are all aspects of this multi-faceted activity. Cyclers compete as both teams and individuals, and competitions can last minutes, hours and even days.

Nowadays, cycling is moving beyond the world of professional racers and becoming popular among a wide array of amateur athletes and sports enthusiasts. It is an excellent way to spice up a cardio work-out.

Cycling is an extremely healthy activity and is linked to increased physical and mental well-being. In fact, Sustrans estimates that investment in cycling provision can give back a 20:1 return from health and other benefits.

Cycling is primarily a cardiovascular activity, much like running, swimming and rowing. It differs from similar cardio work-outs is in that it is low-impact and therefore much easier on joints and bones than, for example, jogging. Cyclers burn calories and fat during work-outs (though how many calories are burned depends largely upon effort) and is a great cardio alternative for those with arthritis, past sports injuries or problems with obesity.

Those looking to try out cycling have both indoor and outdoor options. Indoor spin classes are popping up in gyms all over and seem to be all the rage. For those who prefer to be outside, the cycling options are endless. All that’s necessary is a bike.

Cycling is truly a fantastic sport to both watch and practice. If you haven’t gotten in on the action yet, check out your television sports channels and head to your local sporting goods stores.

Damian Papworth loves cycling, both as a recreational activity and in weekend competition. He knows how important hydration in cycling is so he launched the Cycling Water Bottle website. You can visit it at http://cyclingwaterbottleshop.com