by Andrew Wong

Created on: July 14, 2009

Cycling is perhaps the most noble of all forms of transport. It is self sufficient, it is free, and you actually feel your surroundings as you ride. The joys of bike riding takes your breath away on a good day, but in more ways than one on a bad day. There is no doubt about it, cycling is good exercise but it can be hard work.

I didn't get my driver's license until a year or so ago. Even though I have to admit, I love cars. So I have spent a lot of time riding a bike, whether for sport, recreation, or commuting. The fact is, cycling is great for all these. Yes, I hear people say, but isn't it hard work? People are always telling me that cycling is hard work, that they couldn't ride everywhere like I do. The reply is yes, it is hard work... sometimes. Most of the time, it is only as hard as you make it. If you have a headwind, or your bike is in bad shape, or you have not ridden for years, naturally it takes a while to get in the rhythm. You can choose to give it one hundred percent and finish up running rivers of sweat, but on the bike, no one is stopping you from just going for a nice little cruise and taking in the sights. If you aren't in a hurry, it is a fun and rewarding way to commute or even just to spend time. Traveling at cycling speed gets you there faster than walking, and you feel more connected to the environment than if you are looking out a car window. And it is free, plus it makes you healthy. A win-win situation!

Mountain biking burns more calories per hour than any sport except for cross country skiing, and road riding comes in at sport number 7. So if you want to get in shape, cycling is a fast way to do it and it won't ruin your knees like running will. You can burn these calories while on the way to work! And it is not just calorie burning. You are building muscle in your legs; you are increasing your metabolism. With a faster metabolism, you will burn more calories just hanging out, even while not exercising. Cycling s very much a cardio work out, so while you burn fat, it won't build you excess muscle, and the muscle you do have will get stronger and leaner. The cardio aspect will increase the strength of your heart and lower your resting heart rate; your life expectancy will go up, you will be generally healthier, and your quality of life will improve.

I have not had to go to the doctor once since I have been a regular cyclist. I can't imagine life without some type of bike, whether for commuting or for racing. I can eat whatever I want and I stay in shape.

Yes, cycling can be hard work. But it isn't always, and as a form of exercise, I can't think of a better or more enjoyable way to keep fit. H.G. Wells once said, "When I see an adult on a bicycle, I do not despair or the future of the human race." He's right. Get on your bike today and go for a ride, it might not be fun the first time, but it will change your lifestyle!

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