Goodbye car - Hello bike!

Hey everyone,

As I mentioned in my first post, I work about 4-5 kms away from my home.  Last summer I began biking to work - the bike ride is only about 15 - 20 minutes in traffic while the walk is 35-40 minutes.  In Ottawa, many people also bike in the winter but I equate this to an extreme sport like sky-diving.  Since I began commuting to work by bike I have tried to use my bike in lieu of travelling by bus or car for other outings such as running errands or visiting family and friends.

The results:
1) Weight loss - not only does biking burn calories but it develops more muscle than simply walking.  I notice that my arms are more toned, my abs are more visible and my gluts and thighs are more defined.  Also, if you are trying to lose weight keep in mind that muscle burns calories even when you are resting.  So don't shy away from push ups and lunges.  They will pay off way more than coasting on the elliptical for 30 minutes.

2) Savings - with the price of gas these days, even a 5 - 10 km bike ride here and there will significantly increase the time between gas station visits.

3) Cardio - Ottawa is a flat city, but even the slightest little hills get me breathing hard.  This will allow me to become a stronger runner and yogi, but will also assist everyone in their day to day activities such as climbing a few flights of stairs.  Having a strong heart and lungs will also ensure that nutrients are properly distributed throughout the body.

4) Sunshine - I am going to do a post later on about the sun, skin cancer, vitamin D and sunscreen, but for now I will keep it simple and say that exposure to some natural sunlight is important.  Vitamin D is formed when UVB rays hit your skin.  Vitamin D is important for: bone health, a strong immune system, anti-HIV effects, protecting you against influenza, preventing cancer and preventing cardiovascular disease.

5) Environment - While the 1 less car stickers on bikes may get some cranky drivers riled up in morning traffic, it is true that car pollution is harming the environment.  Our dependence on fossil fuels is definitely playing a big part in global conflicts, climate change and our health (ex.asthma).

6) Mood - The bike ride to work in the morning is sometimes a little daunting, and sometimes a little cold and windy, but I always feel great once I get off my bike. There is something about pushing myself physically that re-balances my mood, my body and gives me a mental boost.  When I get to work I feel ready to take on whatever challenges the day brings.

I hope you give cycling a chance!  I know that biking to work is impossible for many people, but I encourage you to jump on your bike next time you are going to the bank, grabbing a few groceries, visiting a friend or even heading to the gym for a double dynamite workout.

Free yourself!