Will you be cycling this summer?
In June 2013, if you do nothing else, here are the top ten reasons to take part in the UK’s biggest mass participation cycling event, Bike Week 2013 (15-23 June) as voted for by previous Bike Week participants.
Last year the nation fell in love with cycling; with more of us than ever getting on our bikes, inspired by our Olympic heroes Victoria Pendleton and Bradley Wiggins, so we hope these endorsements will inspire you to fall in love with cycling (all over again)…
Almost half of the Bike Week participants say that cycling will make you feel better and nearly a third say that it will change your life; plus you will lose weight and stay toned, will save money, you will look healthier and will be in a good mood when you arrive at work.
Be stronger, fitter, firmer
Cycling works your legs, thighs and glutes as well as being good for the heart and the cardiovascular system. Need we say more?
Gets you glowing
It’s good news for your skin too as increased circulation means oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the skin cells more quickly. And cycling releases endorphins — neurochemicals more potent than Prozac - which induce a feeling of wellbeing.
Cycle chic
Is it shallow to point out that the clothes are cool, the accessories are ingenious and the bikes themselves are pretty impressive?
See things differently
Discovering cycle-friendly routes in your local area gives you a chance to see familiar places in a whole new way, not to mention meet new people. Speaking of which…
WLTM?
The ratio of men to women on bikes is 3:1 so what better opportunity to come across men in the Wiggins/Froome/Cavendish league (And we need to even out the numbers!).
It’s fast and convenient
No more waiting for trains or buses. No more searching for a parking space. Leave the house when you want and arrive energised, in a good mood and on time.
Clear your head
Cycling gives you silence, an opportunity to empty your brain, breathe in air and bask in sunshine. After short while on a bike you will mentally be far away.
And it’s free
You’ll save on fares (as well as coffees, snacks and magazines purchased for the journey). Not to mention car parking and parking fines.
Be inspiring
By following in the tyre tracks of admirable women such as Vivienne Westwood, Agyness Deyn and Florence Welsh, you can become a positive role model to the women in your own life, be it friends, family or kids.
And you’ll live longer to enjoy it!
Amazing research on identical twins by King’s College London showed that the twin who did three 45-minute rides a week was nine years ‘biologically younger’ than the one who didn’t!
So this June, join the half a million people who took part in Bike Week last year. Find your nearest event at www.bikeweek.org.uk
Tagged in Cycling fitness tips Workout