As a kid my bike may have been my most used possession. I lived on that blue beauty, circling the neighborhood with my friends and siblings until we were called in for dinner or bed. Riding on dirt hills in vacant lots, to the local snow cone shack, to taking them on vacation with us to the Colorado mountains we didn't realize the amount of exercise we got on those bikes. At the time they were merely a way to get from point A to point B, and they were fun. So we rode.
Years later biking is one of the trendiest sports of the moment. Said to be one of the most effective workout you'll ever do, here are a few reasons why I started biking again and why you should consider adding it to your workout if you haven't already.
Torch Calories
Because it requires the use of the largest muscles in your body, (your legs) it will torch calories like you wouldn't believe.
Better Bike
Better bike, than drive if you can. Look for ways to swap a few car rides a week with a bike ride. Bike to work, to do errands, or take the kids to the park. You'll save gas, burn stress, and work in a workout while getting your to do list done.
Just for Your Joints
If for no other reason, bike to give your joints a rest from higher impact workouts you may be doing. Riding will put less stress on your knees, ankles, and spine than jogging or walking. Ensure your seat is set properly. Your knee should bend just slightly as you pedal.
Pedal Smarter
Find a hill and get to the top, a few times if you can. Standing up while pedaling will engage your triceps and core as you work to stabilize yourself on the bike and reach the top. End result means great tonging for you.
Explore Easier
How well do you know your surroundings? Biking lets you truly explore the area you live in with a much wider radius than merely walking or running and will give you a new perspective that driving won't and can't. So hop on a bike and find a new park, trail, or lookout spot that you may not realize is so close to home.
Sleep Soundly
Stanford University asked a group of insomnia sufferers to bike 30 minutes ever other day. The bikers time required to fall asleep was reduced by half, and their sleep time increased by an hour. For those with trouble sleeping like myself this is one of the biggies for me. Biking will put you to sleep!
Family Fun
You can bike on your own for a workout and use it later for a family ride, or attach a bike trailer to your bike and make that workout double the burn by including little ones that are more than happy to come along for the ride. I love that biking can be done on your own when you want or as a fun family activity. It is also a great date for you and the hubby to workout together and see the sights while you enjoy each others company.
Beginner Tips:
- Don't wear Jeans. Any cotton, spandex, nylon pant or short will be better for your buns on the seat than jeans. BELIEVE me.
- Bring water. You'll need it. End of story.
- Start Slow. You may be feeling good and overdo it your first ride leaving you less likely to stick with it because you are so sore. Start easy and work up to longer rides. Give yourself time to get used to the seat of a bike.
- Dress in comfortable clothing that moves easily.
- Let someone know where you'll be riding and when to expect you back.
- Sunglasses
- A hat or some type of undo for your hair if it is long. You won't want it blowing all about.
- Get started. Don't let the spandex covered bikers aplenty intimidate you off the road or trails. Give it a try no matter your skill or experience.
Post a Comment