| Bicycling Your Way to Better Health and Weight Loss | | | | likely do the trick. |
| There is probably not another aerobic activity that can | | | | What are the advantages of cycling over other forms |
| be as enjoyable as taking a bike ride. Bike riding has | | | | of exercise? |
| been increasing in popularity for years now and there | | | | 1) It can provide an excellent cardiovascular workout |
| is a good reason for it. The health benefits, coupled | | | | without the high impact hazardsassociated with |
| with the simple enjoyment that this mode of | | | | jogging. You can easily control the intensity level of |
| transportation offers, make it a top notch aerobic | | | | your workout by varying your speed and the terrain |
| exercise. | | | | you are riding on (flat ground vs. hills). |
| Bicycling is not an expensive exercise to get involved | | | | 2) It can be done on the spur of the moment at almost |
| with. Sure, you can spend thousands on a new bike if | | | | anytime of the year and in almost any location. |
| you want to, but for most of us, a used bike or a less | | | | 3) It saves on gas and for those of us who are |
| expensive new one will be more than sufficient in | | | | concerned about the environment; you know that you |
| meeting your needs. Besides, with today's gas prices it | | | | are doing your part to reduce pollution. |
| can end up being a money saver to boot. | | | | 4) It can be a great way to fit your exercising into your |
| In getting started, find a bike that is the right size for | | | | busy daily routine; by cycling to work, to the store, or |
| you and one that you are comfortable on. Bike sizes | | | | wherever your needs take you. |
| usually reflect the measurement of the seat tube. My | | | | For me, the joy of bicycling comes from the simple |
| best recommendation is to stop by a bike shop and | | | | fact that I get to be outdoors enjoying the scenery. I |
| have them size you. The type of bike you ride will also | | | | find it a lot more interesting and time seems to fly by in |
| determine its size. For instance, a road bike will be a | | | | comparison to riding a stationary bike or some other |
| different size for you than a mountain bike. Also, be | | | | piece of exercise equipment indoors. |
| sure to get a seat that fits you. You don't want | | | | If you have a bike, get on it! If you don't, check around |
| bicycling to literally become a pain in the butt for you. | | | | at the local stores or the newspaper ads and see if |
| Again, a professional at a bike shop will offer you | | | | you can buy one that will fit your needs. I guarantee |
| some guidelines. For most of us, who just want some | | | | you will find it to be a great addition to your exercise |
| enjoyable exercise and are not worried about speed | | | | routine. |
| and competition; a wider, padded seat will more than | | | | |