Published in June 21st, 2008
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If you’re like most people in America, you’re probably looking to get in a bit better shape. Of course, we all know this isn’t as easy as it sounds. Finding the time can be difficult, but find the motivation can be even harder when all you have to look forward to is a long slog on the treadmill. You need a way to exercise that you’ll love, rather than dread. If you can’t wait to go do your workout, you’ll certainly be in much better shape.
For me, and for many others, road biking fits this description perfectly. Nothing else is quite like the sensation of freedom and speed you get from riding on a road bike, watching the miles fly by as you proppel yourself under your own power through the scenic countryside. You’re getting one of the best workouts there is, but you won’t even notice. Instead, you’ll be pushing yourself to race your buddies to the top of the hill, or taking tight corners as you fly down a curvy mountain road at car-like speeds.
The reason road biking is such a great workout, besides the fact that its a ton of fun, is that it works multiple body energy systems. Most of you are probably familiar with the concept of “aerobic” and “anaerobic” exercise. Without getting into the details, we can summarize aerobic exercise as long, slow, gradual exercise that keeps your heart rate up, and anaerobic excerise as short, very high intensity effort. Working both systems is essential for optimal fitness, and road biking does just this.
For example, when you’re do a long, slow, flat ride, you’re helping work your aerobic systems. When you’re sprinting that last portion of a steep hill climb, you’re getting an intense anaerobic workout. You control what kind of workout you get but what kind of ride you take. It’s that simple.
So, what does it take to get in on a great sport like this? Well, its fortunately quite simple. With just a bike, shoes, helmet, proper clothing, and a few other accessories, you’re off and ready to go. Since its just ride a bike, you don’t need to take any special classes to learn what you need to do. Of course, there will be a slight learning curve if you’ve never ridden a road bike before.
Compared to the inexpensive, heavy, clunky cheap bikes most people spend their lives riding, a road bike will feel like a highly tuned sports car. In other words, it will be twitchy and fast, and you need to pay attention to keep from crashing. Don’t worry, though, you’ll catch on soon enough as you start riding.
In fact, once you get going with the riding, you’ll discover one of the best things about road biking: progression. The more you ride, the faster you’ll get. Soon you’ll be timing yourself on your favorite rides, attempting to break your previous records. By doing this, you are literally watching yourself getting in better shape, and having a blast while doing it!
So, I hope all this has helped you see a little what road biking can do for your fitness. It’s easy, fun, and can last you a lifetime. Visit your local bike ship today, or read more to find out even more about this great sport.
david wilson is a road biker and webmaster. he invites you to visit his sites and learn
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