Joining a cycling club might seem daunting, but it's the best way of improving your riding and upping your confidence, while meeting new people and discovering new routes.

My biggest fear was I'd either be left behind or holding everyone else up. That's why I joined a club with a "we wait for everyone" policy, as well as regular rides for different abilities, from easy 15-25 miles to the hardest hilliest slogs of 50 miles or more.

Team Glow also happens to be women-only – good for those who find road cycling a bit macho. Our Facebook page is full of chatter you would never get at a mixed club, from what to do when you're patronised in a bike shop to the best saddle for a womanly bottom.

Ladies' clubs are still in the minority, but British Cycling runs nationwide Breeze Rides aimed at getting more women riding for fun, and many are happy to have kids along, too. It's always best to contact the ride leader so they can answer any questions.

There is also an ever-increasing number of family-friendly cycling festivals around the country, including regular Sky Rides with many family-friendly, closed road group rides.

Whatever you choose, arrive on a working bike, getting it serviced beforehand if necessary: sometimes newbies rock up on lethal old bangers, and it's hard to do a quick fix on the day beyond pumping the tyres and tightening the brakes.

Photograph: Daniel Milchev/Getty Images

About half of my club carry SatNavs but I prefer to go old school, simply following the wheel ahead. My team mates have introduced me to some stunning rides and superlative cake stops - I'd never have discovered the Penny Farthing cafe without them. Occasionally our rides take in another activity: last summer we had a dip in a Cheshire lake, only to be pelted with stones by angry anglers.

Sometimes I still like to ride alone, but it's great knowing I don't have to.

To find a cycling club near you search britishcycling.org.uk/clubs

Bicycle - the complete guide to everyday cycling by Helen Pidd is published by Penguin

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