Benefits of Bicycling
Article contributed by Cassidy Greif
Tired of your daily treadmill routine or morning commute to work? By picking up your bicycle for either a short ride to work or a supplement to your exercise schedule, you can increase your health in an effective and enjoyable aerobic workout. Regular bicycling reduces the risk of:
• Heart disease & stroke
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
“A 15-minute bike ride to and from work five times a week burns off the equivalent of 11 pounds of fat in a year.6” That kind of cycling pattern also meets the government's latest target on exercise: that we should take part in some mild to moderate physical activity that leaves us out of breath for at least 30 minutes five times a week. Bicycling is a low impact exercise and is ideal for rehabilitation. On top of the numerous health benefits, bicycling promotes an environmental friendly philosophy.
What makes bicycling unique is the idea that it can easily be incorporated into our daily routine. Bicycling is relatively easy to pick up, requiring only a well maintained bike and the motivation to improve your health. Fitter, more adventurous individuals may decide to pick up mountain biking, a sport that incorporates speeding down man made trails, or enduring long strenuous climbs. While bicycling is a great way to start your trek towards improving your health, remember there are risks associated with the activity, and it is advised to take all recommended precautions, including wearing appropriate protective gear and routine maintenance on your bicycle.
Southwestern Virginia is known for outdoor recreation, and Blacksburg is no exception with numerous bicycle trails and its biker friendly attitude, it is the perfect location to either begin or continue your commitment to bicycling. Pandapas Pond, a “500 acre park on the north side of Brush Mountain offers miles of trails both open and level, steep and technical, and everything in-between.” Located less than 3 miles outside of Blacksburg on 460 West, it serves as a prime location for both recreational and mountain biking. For beginner or novice riders, Poverty Creek trail provides a relaxing scenic ride along Poverty Creek, which has a flat and smooth trail surface. For more experienced and technical riders Pandapas Pond provides a variety of options, including the intense climb up Horse Nettle trail, where a beautiful view of Virginia Tech awaits. An intense down hill on Snake Root trail rewards your ability, providing you access back to the parking lot via Poverty Creek trail. Along with Pandapas Pond, Huckleberry trail provides a beautiful paved bike trail that runs between Blacksburg and Christiansburg. Bicycle lanes can be found on most roads that navigate Blacksburg, making it convenient to ride to work and class.