Biking: A great way to get fit

By Rhett Butler

You have a bike but you don’t use it anymore. You haven’t ridden in over 10 years. Maybe you never learned how to ride a bike or you never bought one.

Regardless of your situation it’s never too late to begin biking. Not only is biking valuable for physical fitness it can be a great alternative to beat the morning work commute. Bicycling also provides an opportunity to engage with others in the community while enjoying Mother Nature.

Benefits

Cycling does not create as much stress on the joints as running. BetterHealth notes that cycling is low impact good for strength training and stamina and allows riders to cycle at their preferred intensity. Cycling may not do as much damage to the body as more intense activities. It’s a great activity for all ages and is good for cardiovascular health.

How to get involved

Though some bikes can be pricey recreational bikes are affordable. Bikes are also available to rent inexpensively. In fact Reid Health has partnered with Cardinal Greenways to fund a free bicycle rental service through the Cycling and Fitness Warehouse in Richmond. This program will be available most of the summer. Regular rental rates start at only $10 a person.

The annual ReidRide is a great opportunity for biking in an event that raises money for area youth. ReidRide is July 14 this year starting with registration at 7:30 a.m. Participants will receive a T-shirt and are eligible for prizes. The 25-mile route begins and ends at Reid Health. At the end of the ride refreshments massages and photo ops are available and prizes are awarded.

Bicycling is great exercise that is convenient and offers plenty of benefits. Some also go beyond casual riding and get involved in competitions. So cycling offers a range of levels and intensity making it a great choice if you are looking to get more active.