In cities across the United States, more and more people are putting their feet to the peddles. New bicycle paths are also popping up around the country, due to the demand. Many people aren’t just riding for recreation, but also bike riding for transportation. Biking to work is a green way to get to and from your job, all while burning calories and saving cash. But besides that, it helps to tone your body and even promotes a healthy cardiovascular system.
Protect your heart
For those with high blood pressure and high cholesterol, it’s even more important to take action to protect your heart and prevent heart disease. Fitness experts recommend riding at a moderate to fast pace for at least 30 minutes straight. Research has shown that women who practiced this for at least 30 minutes, three times a week, found that after one year they had significantly reduced their blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Tone your body
Biking has been found to tone your overall body, from the torsao to your legs. It boosts energy levels and leaves you feeling energized and strong. It’s also easier on your joints, especially your knees – than running is. You can mix it up and even ride while standing. This will engage your triceps and your core. So biking may tone your legs, but it also tones nearly every other muscle too. It’s a great way to tone, shape and energize you body.
A survey from the National Household Transportation showed that half of the working population (in the U.S.) actually live within 5 miles of their place of work. That means that biking about 20 minutes each way is not only easy to do but can burn up to 3,000 extra calories each month. The first thing to do, though, is start out slow if you aren’t already familiar with biking for long periods of time. Pace yourself, bring water and even bring a friend if you can. You’ll be able to work up to riding for longer distances – and up hills. Set goals and keep track of your progress to help you stay on the right track.
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