Bike Fitness & Safety

Written by Danielle Gymorie Cert, Personal Trainer Prescription Fitness

These days, it seems there are more bikes out on the road rather than in the garage collecting dust.  Whether you are out riding to have fun or because you are concerned with your waistline, there are plenty of reasons to trade the car for a bike.  Some studies have shown that biking and walking appeal to children and teenagers as well as working adults.

With more bicycles out on the road, cities have made cruising on two wheels safer and easier.  Before joining the party, be sure to know the rules of the road.  Here’s a little cheat sheet on how to avoid accidents (and tickets) out on the road.

• Bike on the road in the same direction as traffic (only bikers under age 12 are legally allowed to ride on sidewalks.) Even though they lack a motor, bicycles are considered road vehicles.
• Stop at red lights, stop signs, and obey other traffic signs (one-way streets, yield, etc.), just as you would in a car.
• Use marked bike paths or lanes when they’re available.
• Be extra safe when traveling with children. Kids must sit in a correctly attached child carrier and all children must wear a helmet always.
• In many areas, biking on highways, expressways, interstate routes, and thruways is illegal.

While each state has its own rules and regulations, here are some safety gear requirements most areas follow.

• Helmet
• Bell or horn
• White headlight and red taillight when riding around sunrise, sunset, or at night
• Working brakes
• Reflectors on the front and back of the bicycle

To make every experience positive and safe, follow these safe biking practices.

• Put down the phone
• Stay out of drivers’ blind spots
• Signal well
• Don’t drink and bike (duh).
• Stay visible
• Consider sporting a mirror
• Travel with a mini tool kit

Well, enough about safety practices.

There are a lot of excellent reasons to take up riding a bike!

• It’s a great and healthy way to move from point A to point B
• It’s free – no gas to put in, no parking spaces to pay for.
• It’s low impact on your body. There are no jarring movements like with running.
• It’s a great place to start with exercise. Sit on a bike, pedal, done.
• Exercise boosts brainpower
• It will improve your heart
• Lose unwanted fat
• Help prevent cancer
• Feel better about yourself
• Feel sexier!
• Live longer!
• And have fun!

Remember, follow the rules and regulations, wear safety gear, and follow safe biking practices.  Riding a bike will help you lose weight, recovery from injuries, and even get smarter.  Don’t forget the most important aspect of cycling, have fun!