HEALTH
Workouts
All Aboard for Spring Biking!
Don’t just sit there! Hop on your bike for a breezy warm-weather workout. Haven’t been in the saddle since you were a tot? No worries, read on for our two-wheeled guide to the open road.
Finding a Great Fit
Let’s face if: If you’ve grown more than a few inches, your old mountain bike from second grade isn’t gonna cut it anymore. A sporting goods store or bike shop will be able to help you figure out a frame that’s fab for you. Here are a couple general rules:
You should have slight bend in the knee when your foot is on the bottom position.
You shouldn't be able to sit on the seat and put your feet completely on the ground—tippy toes only.
Moolah Savers
You don’t have to shell out major loot to get a solid ride. Ask around to see if you can borrow someone’s until you’re committed to the sport. Or, ask your ‘rents if they’ll look on Craigslist (be careful and never just show up anywhere or send anyone money, OK?) or at yard sales, flea markets and second-hand stores for some wheels.
Be Extra Safe
You have to be super-safe when biking. Always wear a helmet, and avoid riding your bike on busy streets. When on your bike put down the cell phone, and take out those headphones because you need to hear what’s going on around you. Never bike at night!
Cute Up That Cycle
Your old bike need a makeover? Decorate it with bumper stickers, or get some spray paint and change the color! Put a cute basket on the front of your bike, load it with your towel and fave book, and hit the pool all summer long.
Get Major Bennies
Riding a bike has all the aerobic benefits of taking a run, but it doesn’t put the same strain on your joints. You’ll get awesome leg strength from pedaling those wheels, but you’ll also get core and arm strength from maintaining your balance and control of the bike.
Look at your bike as your way to get to school, your friend’s house or to the store without having to ask your parents for a ride. Plus you can feel good about the environmental benefits of riding a bike vs. riding in a car. It’s also a great way to get out of your house and de-stress if you have something to think about, or if you can’t find a place to be alone.
Finding a Great Fit
Let’s face if: If you’ve grown more than a few inches, your old mountain bike from second grade isn’t gonna cut it anymore. A sporting goods store or bike shop will be able to help you figure out a frame that’s fab for you. Here are a couple general rules:
You should have slight bend in the knee when your foot is on the bottom position.
You shouldn't be able to sit on the seat and put your feet completely on the ground—tippy toes only.
Moolah Savers
You don’t have to shell out major loot to get a solid ride. Ask around to see if you can borrow someone’s until you’re committed to the sport. Or, ask your ‘rents if they’ll look on Craigslist (be careful and never just show up anywhere or send anyone money, OK?) or at yard sales, flea markets and second-hand stores for some wheels.
Be Extra Safe
You have to be super-safe when biking. Always wear a helmet, and avoid riding your bike on busy streets. When on your bike put down the cell phone, and take out those headphones because you need to hear what’s going on around you. Never bike at night!
Cute Up That Cycle
Your old bike need a makeover? Decorate it with bumper stickers, or get some spray paint and change the color! Put a cute basket on the front of your bike, load it with your towel and fave book, and hit the pool all summer long.
Electra Quick Release Wicker Basket, $40, rei.com
Get Major Bennies
Riding a bike has all the aerobic benefits of taking a run, but it doesn’t put the same strain on your joints. You’ll get awesome leg strength from pedaling those wheels, but you’ll also get core and arm strength from maintaining your balance and control of the bike.
Look at your bike as your way to get to school, your friend’s house or to the store without having to ask your parents for a ride. Plus you can feel good about the environmental benefits of riding a bike vs. riding in a car. It’s also a great way to get out of your house and de-stress if you have something to think about, or if you can’t find a place to be alone.