Bike
Your bike was probably the first taste of independence you ever had. Wheeling away from the house under your own power. It was the method of transportation until your driver’s license, when your bike became very “uncool.” But somewhere along the way between 16 and 20-something, your bike started to look like fun again.
And it is.
Whether you’re biking to the post office or bank, riding on a paved recreation trail, or commuting to work, there's a certain feel to turning over the pedals, knowing that as much fun as you're having, your health is benefitting, too.
The Greater Dayton Region is home to one of the most extensive systems of shared-used paths or recreation trails in North America, spanning nearly 270 miles across southwest Ohio. This bicycling highway can get you from point A to point B or just provide for an amazing recreational expernience with the entire family.
Here are some fun cycling facts:
- About 60 million people bicycle in the United States (source: Bicyclinginfo.org).
- According to the National Association of Sporting Goods Retailers, cycling is the second most popular recreational activity in the United States.
- There are more cyclists in the United States than skiers, golfers and tennis players combined (source: BikeThisWay.com)
- If cycling participation increased enough to reduce obesity by about 3 percent, national medical expenditures could be reduced by $6 billion. (Rashad, I., 2008)
Health Benefits
Aerobic exercise – like biking – can help:
• Reduce your risk or coronary artery disease
• Reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure
• Reduce your risk of stroke
• Reduce your risk of developing some cancers
• Reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes
• Ward off viral infections and boost your immune system
• Lower your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes
• Manage your weight
• Strengthen your heart muscle
• Improve blood flow to all parts of your body
• Relieve chronic muscle pain and fibromyalgia
• Boost your mood
• Increase stamina
Local Clubs
• Major Taylor
• Dayton Cycling Club
• Miami Valley Mountain Bike Association
• Bike Miami Valley
• Ohio Bike Federation
• League of American Bicyclist
• Alliance for Biking and Walking
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