Be Cycle Savvy!

2 Wheels Are Better Than 4

From ages 2 to 102, biking is an activity that everyone can enjoy. Done alone or with family and friends, the personal and global benefits are too many to count. So get on your bike, all you need is a helmet and a little balance.

Bike For Your Health

Biking is a fun activity for any ability that can make you feel better psychologically and physically. Choose to ride on the beach, road, trail or mountain or mix it up for a change of scenery.

While clearing your mind of daily stresses, you can improve your cardiovascular system, strengthen leg and core muscles, and improve your balance and coordination.

Biking is a low impact activity that is gentle on your joints and muscles when done with correct posture and a properly fitted bike. Like any activity, it is wise to warm up and stretch lightly before biking. Remember to stay hydrated and stretch again after your ride to prevent stiffness.

Bike Clean

As we are all aware, motor vehicle emissions are a major contributor to our pollution problem. You may not know that cold engines produce more emissions that warm engines. For shorter trips within your community, when the engine does not have time to warm up, hop on your bike instead and decrease your carbon footprint.

Many communities are working towards greater riding access for cyclists by adding bike trails and designated lanes on roadways. Call your local government office for bike trail information and initiatives in your area.

Cycle And Save

You will immediately notice the money you save on gas when you begin to use your bike in place of your car. Over time, there will be less wear and tear on your vehicle saving you money on repairs, maintenance and depreciation. In addition, tax credits may be available to you through the Bicycle Commuter Act.

On a larger scale, by increasing your biking activity you can help reduce the ever-growing economic strain on the health care system. An article published by Health Affairs on July 27, 2009 states that obesity related medical expenses in the United States have almost doubled in the last decade, rising from $78.5 billion in 1998 to $147 billion in 2008 (over 9% of total medical expenditure). By biking to stay healthy you can reduce the risk of health problems and your need for medical care.

Whether you are biking to the corner store or training to win the yellow jersey, enjoy the ride. You will save money, improve your health and keep the environment cleaner.

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