Some like it hot…. But most of us are finding this heatwave rather a trial. Even with the aircon at full blast, those travelling by car or public transport are really feeling the heat and getting somewhat frazzled and grumpy within the enclosed spaces of car, bus or train. So why not get on your bike?

You might ask if cycling could possibly offer any more comfort, as surely you will be hot and sweaty by the time you arrive at your journey’s destination. But just try getting on your bike in this hot weather and you will find that it is astonishingly refreshing. You are creating your own pedal powered fan to cool you down as you travel along. You will arrive feeling cooler, fresher, less frazzled and less grumpy, than those other travellers.

You do though need to take care to avoid looking like a hot wet lobster on arrival, and here are some tips for staying cool while commuting or doing other functional trips in town.

Plan your route to avoid sun-blasted main roads which have melting tarmac and high levels of air pollution. Routes off main roads will keep you away from the hot emissions of cars and buses, will have less traffic, and are likely to be shadier. There are several cycling apps to help you find quieter routes.

Go slowly. Even at slower speeds you get the wind in your face and if you don’t exert yourself your muscles won’t be generating as much heat. Don’t try to pedal too hard and fast so that you overheat once you stop, you will arrive feeling relaxed and fresh. You have still taken exercise even if it isn’t as energetic as usual.

Wear the right clothes. There is no need for anything special, just things that are loose fitting so that your skin can feel your autogenerated breeze.

Avoid fabrics that don’t wick away sweat though as they could make you sticky. It may also be wise to avoid clothes that show the sweat. You may also want a change of clothes if you are travelling to work.

Drink lots of water. Even if you are feeling cool that is partly because the evaporation of sweat, so keep well hydrated.

Don’t wear a rucksack on your back. The heat is trapped, as is the sweat, resulting is a tell-tale wet patch down your back. Instead use a front basket or panniers. This may require some expenditure, but it will be one off and useful for ever.

And if none of these are convincing you about the benefits of cycling when it is hot, you might want to think about an electric bike. We have already argued in this column that e-bikes have a major contribution to make in encouraging more people to start, or stay, cycling. And in this heat, e-bikes have the huge added bonus of an electric assist to reduce your effort and keep up the speed to maintain the fan on your face.

So get on your bike and enjoy your journey knowing you will arrive fresh and cheerful.