Bike your way to a better body

This is a blog that will be co-written by Jeff Dibler and Ellen Ormsby.  Ellen is an avid cyclist, runner, marathoner, and triathlete.  She is also the group fitness director at Edgewater Fitness. 

By Ellen Ormsby

Summer is just round the corner and now is the time to start getting your body ready for the warmer weather ahead.  As I was running down Rte 2 on Tuesday night, I noticed several cyclists out for an evening ride.  It reminded me that May is National Bike Month, a campaign celebrated by communities across the nation.  Many communities will celebrate next week with Bike to Work promotions and other bike events.

It is no surprise to me that among the top 10 leanest cities, eight are considered bicycle friendly, and half of those have a high rating of silver, gold or platinum.  Bicycling is ideal for weight loss because it burns a lot of calories. Riding at a moderate to vigorous speed will allow you to burn approximately 720 calories per hour.

My most ambitious ride took me across the state of Pennsylvania.  On that trip I met another cyclist that told me riding a bicycle is the solution to all our problems.  It increases physical activity, reduces traffic congestion, helps the environment and even saves money.  I did a little research of my own and found out the yearly cost of owning and operating a vehicle is over $9,000 or 18% of the average household’s income, owning and maintaining a bicycle can cost as little as $120.  While I’m not sure that riding a bicycle is the solution to ALL our problems, I do know it will get you in great shape and ready for the warm weather ahead.

Don’t know how to get started?  Try a Spinning class and speak with other cycling enthusiasts to help you get started biking your way to a better body.