Elevation profiles

Twenty of the long distance routes are classed as Easy - Medium difficulty. So most of the cycle routes are open to everyone. Others, with a little training, are within grasp. Some routes such as the Hull to Harwich are simply easy and can be undertaken by everyone including children. 

Each map has an elevation profile. Don't be put off. It's the height in metres that count. Some profiles can be deceptive with the steep sections  often just 50 metre climbs (look at the metre scales for the height of the cycle section). For example:

Tough route = Pennine Cycleway
Mild route = Reivers
Easy going route = Hull - Harwich

And, if you're really tired, then just get off your bike and walk for a while.

Even the most challenging of the long distance routes have long sections of easy track and flat, quiet road - and the inclines on most of the routes, the Cornish Way and the Edinburgh to Aberdeen routes are examples, will lead you from sea to low moorland and back to sea level again in a short space of time, so the variety and scenery changes easily and quickly. The Coast & Castles route in southern Scotland and northern England easily combines moors and coastline with only one relatively challenging area. 

Take as long as you want over a route. Some people will do 70 miles a day, others only 20 miles. Some cyclists complete the C2C, one of the hardest routes, in under 15 hours. So take two days or 10 days. The success of the C2C route in the north of England has shown that people of all ages and fitness can enjoy cycling at their own pace. As long as a sensible approach is made such as carrying the right clothing (and that doesn't mean expensive cycling gear) and allowing yourself enough time to enjoy the scenery and the cycling - then the routes are there waiting to be cycled by everyone.