“A cyclist can do 1,000 miles on the food energy equivalent of a gallon of gasoline, which will move a car only some 15 to 30 miles.” —Richard Ballentine
Now that the weather is nice and warm, it is time to dust off your bike, bring the family, and get a great workout. Cycling is not only fun but can be a great physical activity no matter how fast a pace you choose or how strenuous you want the exercise to be. Cycling can tone your leg muscles, lower your risk for heart disease, lower your blood pressure, and build strength while enjoying a great cardio workout. It also saves time, money, and the environment!
Bicycling has several advantages over other exercises:
Before you get started, it is important to give your bike a quick check to make sure it is in the right shape to ride safely.
Wear a helmet: Helmets can prevent head injuries-the main cause of death and disability. They make it easier for motorists to see you and avoid you!
Proper clothing: It makes sense to wear something brightly colored when you are biking. Choose a color that makes you easy to see. For instance, when biking at night, do not wear black. Never wear clothing that is too loose, inappropriate shoes, or headphones.
Always ride on the RIGHT and in single file. Remember to ‘go with the flow’. Never, ride against traffic.
Iowa City and Coralville are coming together May 14th-18th to celebrate Bike to Work Week, a nationwide recognition of human power and health. Throughout the week, events hosted by the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, the Iowa City Bike Library and the James Gang will encourage people to ride their bikes to work so that we all may enjoy the benefits that come from cycling. Here are some of the activities planned for the week: