The month of May is the designated time to get slim, get in gear and keep your wallet fat by cycling your way around during National Bike Month. Besides bicycling being fun, convenient and good exercise - it's also a great way to pocket that money normally spent on gas. For many, National Bike Month during the month of May could not have arrived at a better time. The recent spikes in the nation's gas prices are causing many people to seek alternative transport options. The ease and convenience of spinning those bike pedals top the list as most people's prime choice due to cycling's accessibility and convenience.
Biking is great aerobic exercise.
If for no other motivational reason, consider biking to achieve the burn. An hour of cycling (for a 150 lbs. biker) burns approximately 410 calories when cycling at an average speed of 12 miles per hour. But get checked out by your health practitioner before biking regularly for long periods of time. Getting a physical before saddling up may prove to be a great idea in the long run - scratch that - in the long ride!
You don't have to sport the Lycra to be comfortable.
Wide selections of fabrics and styles allow for bicyclists to stay drier and comfortable without having to go and buy the top of the line lycra bike suit. There are specialized (i.e. loose fitting) fabrics developed for many sports and designed to minimize sweat and maximize comfort. As you begin to increase your cycling level and performance, you may want to explore more professional riding gear.
Borrow a bike before you buy your own.
Try to borrow a bike before you go out and purchase your own. Borrowing will help measure your commitment and desire to continue to bike long after National Bike Month has come and gone. Another pivotal reason to borrow a bike is to assess your preference of what type of bike to purchase. Visiting your local bike shop and taking a few bikes for a test ride will also help you learn your preferences. Most viable and customer-oriented bike shops allow you to test ride their bikes before purchasing.
Remain safe during National Bike Month & beyond.
The first item on your safety checklist should be to purchase a helmet. Wearing a helmet while riding is not an option - it's mandatory and enforced by law. Following the rules of the road will hopefully prove to make your helmet purchase superfluous, but in the event of an accident will make all the difference. Also, be sure not ride on sidewalks, which are intended for pedestrians. Additional quick safety tips to consider are wearing light and bright clothing to remain visible and check your bike's brakes for quick stops and time/distance it takes to come to a halt. If you're not sure then have a pro look at your bike. For additional safety tips to consider, consult Bicycle Safety Tips on LifeTips.com and BicycleSafe.com.
With all the safety tips and the benefits of health and savings in mind, the key reason people always will and always have been biking is simple: it's fun! Seek out the specific community activities and special events your local area arranges to celebrate National Bike Month and gear up, saddle up and crank your way to a funner, fitter (financially and otherwise), more peaceful and happier you!
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