Bike to Work Week - May 21-26, 2007

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area like I do, having a whole week dedicated to biking to work seems somewhat redundant. It is already an everyday occurrence...not for me personally, but it is a way of life for lots of people out here.

That said, May 21-26 2007 is officially declared Bike to Work Week by the League of American Bicyclists. Nowadays, with gas prices being such as they are, the benefits of biking to work for a week could very well extend beyond just the cardiovascular, weight, and general health benefits to financial benefits as well! The thrill of the adrenaline rush from saving money can be just as addictive as the endorphins released after a good workout.

Cycling is an aerobic exercise, and this type of exercise is the most effective for promoting good health. Riding a bicycle helps to reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Biking helps with weight management and can also improve and elevate your mood. When you ride a bike you develop good (or at least better) balance and coordination and muscle strength which in turn reduces the risk of injuries associated with falls, particularly in the more "mature" population.

To make bicycling a part of your life joining a biking group or getting a biking partner can help keep you on track, plus it's more fun (and safer) than riding alone. For tips on how to select a good starter bicycle, there is a plethora of information out there but you can start here. Also, don't forget to get a bike lock and helmet too!

Photo courtesy of Charles Haynes