Biking for Weight Loss

Regular exercise is an important part of any program to lose weight and get healthy, but it’s important to pick the right kind of exercise. Popular exercise regimens like running or even walking just don’t work for some people, especially in cases where the legs, knees and feet have trouble with the increased activity because of the amount of weight they have to support.

One solution might be rediscovering a favorite pastime from your younger days. Or, it may just mean changing up something you already do for fun. Instead of taking a hike, maybe riding a bike is a great way to lose weight, enjoy better health, and get more out of life.

If you’re going to get serious about bike riding, the first thing you need is the right bike. Today, you can choose from a bewildering range of options. For instance, do you want a single speed, three speed, ten speed, 24 speed? What kind of tires? What kind of seat? Will you use the bike just in temperate weather, or year round?

Find a good bike shop, and you should find helpful advisors who interested in helping meet your particular needs and not just making a sale. Talk to them about how much riding you want to do, whether you’ll be riding on paved roads or dirt trails, how strenuous you expect your rides to be, and what your current experience level is as well as your long term goals. They will help you pick out just the right bike.

Once you have your bike, make sure it is properly outfitted and maintained. Some states require bicycle lights, but if you think you might ever be riding in other than ideal conditions, get them regardless of the law. If you are going to be riding for weight loss, get a speedometer and odometer to keep track of your efforts.

At the start of every season, take your bike to the shop for a safety inspection. Get your tires, brakes, and gears checked, adjust the seat and handlebars for maximum comfort, and see if there are other features that might make your biking experience better. You should always have a water bottle, and a tire pump. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, and that you stay hydrated.

As you become more comfortable riding, develop a weight loss program. Schedule regular times for serious riding, and alternate times of intense cycling with more relaxed periods. Do some stretches to prevent pain or numbness in your arms, wrists, legs, knees, and where your body meets your bike seat.

Remember, riding your bike is only part of a healthy lifestyle. Watch your eating, and plan meals and snacks to include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean meats, and low fat dairy items.

Finally, don’t forget that bike riding isn’t just healthy, it’s fun. Enjoy!