Are You Ready to Ride? It’s Bike Month!
May 03, 2018
Since 1956, May has been recognized as National Bike Month. The third week of May is designated as Bike to Work Week, and the third Friday in may is Bike to Work Day. This is a great time to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle. You can bike to school, bike to work or simply explore the community. Pushing those pedals improves your health, boosts your mood and benefits the environment.
Your health is a great reason to pump up those tires and get outdoors for a bike ride. More than two-thirds of the U.S. adult population is overweight or obese, costing our nation more than $68 billion in health care and personal costs annually. More than one in four kids is overweight, as well. According to a survey by the Transportation Research Board, more than 80 percent of bicycle commuters believe their health has improved since they started bicycle commuting. Plus, bike commuters report lower stress and greater feelings of freedom, relaxation, and excitement than car commuters.
Employers in the community benefit from a healthy, active workforce, as well. Cyclists on average take 15 percent fewer days off from work for illness than non-cyclists, and generally accomplish more work. There’s nothing like riding to stimulate circulation, relieve stress, allow creative thought and foster a positive attitude. Bicycle commuting saves on parking fees, fuel costs, and auto maintenance costs. According to analysis by the League of American Bicyclists, Americans saved more than $4.6 billion by bicycling instead of driving in 2012 alone. The average annual operating expense of a bicycle is just $308, versus more than $8,000 for a car.
So, why should you ride a bike?
- increase cardiovascular fitness
- increase muscle strength and flexibility
- improve joint mobility
- decrease stress levels
- improve posture and coordination
- strengthen bones
- decrease body fat levels
- prevent or manage disease
- reduce anxiety and depression
- save time on your daily commute
- explore the community
- get social with friends and family
Need we say more? If you need more resources about bicycling, we have them!
HAPPY BIKE MONTH!
