Looking for Reasons to Take Up Biking?

Mind is All

Have you thought about how much you enjoyed biking back when you were a kid, but have been too intimidated to get back on the proverbial bicycle? Check out these reasons to hop on your bike.

Biking is an accesible sport, even for those who haven't touched a bike in decades.

Even if you're out of shape, you can handle some form of biking. All you have to do is regain your balance on that bike and you'll be off! Feel free to go at whatever pace you feel comfortable, slowly working your way up as you get more comfortable.

Biking is a great calorie-burner. Let’s say you weigh 150 pounds and want to exercise for thirty minutes a day. Biking for a half hour will burn 264 calories (at a moderate biking pace.) Thirty minutes of moderate (general) swimming will burn 200 calories. You only burn 132 calories on a thirty-minute walk. Give biking a try for a good calorie blaster.

Biking is versatile. You can bike at home, at the gym, both inside and out. Even hotels have bikes in their workout centers, and resorts and vacation towns usually rent bikes from local shops. Biking is one of those things you can do just about anywhere.

Biking is one form of exercise that actually covers some significant distance. Use your bike to get places; this way you can exercise and accomplish something at the same time. Biking is a great workout and is good for the environment--two bonuses in one! Be sure to take safety precautions and wear a helmet and reflective gear, and to equip your bike with a rear view mirror and a sturdy lock.

Biking is easy on the joints. If you’ve injured yourself while running or playing another sport, you may find biking to be a welcome change. Biking provides a hard workout that will burn calories and work your heart and lungs without wearing out your joints.

Pull that old bike out of the garage, get it tuned up, and give biking a try. If you need companionship, join a biking club, which will give you opportunities to go on long rides in the safety of a group. If it's cold outside, check out a spin class or try a stationary bike at home in front of the television.