Biking equal to fun workout.
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Calories Burned
About 544 an hour for a 150-pound person, 726 for a 200-pound person, at a moderate 12-to 14-mph pace.
Bicycling Tips
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- Biking is one of the best fitness activities for whole families to enjoy together.
- It’s also a great stress-busting solo activity.
- Cycling is the one activity that allows you to cover some real distance.
- There are plenty of biking tours available now through various regions of the country or world.
- Biking is good for the planet’s health as well as your own. Why drive to the market for a loaf of bread when you can have fun getting there?
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- More than most outdoor activities, bicycling is subject to the vagaries of the weather.
- High speeds and relatively little contact with the road don't mesh well with wet or icy conditions.
- Road safety is key. Bicycling on roads filled with car traffic can add to your stress level instead of reduce it.
- The road isn't the only thing that's slippery when wet. Brakes are, too.
- Long, frequent rides can strain the neck, back and arms and even impair men’s fertility.
Calories Burned
About 544 an hour for a 150-pound person, 726 for a 200-pound person, at a moderate 12-to 14-mph pace.
Bicycling Tips
- If you're going to stay on relatively smooth roads, get a road bike. For rougher roads (including city streets) and for versatility, consider a "hybrid" bike. Mountain bikes are appropriate for those who will be doing mostly mountain and trial biking.
- Comfort is the key to long rides, and the right bike setup is the key to comfort. On a road or hybrid bike, set the handlebars about an inch lower than the saddle. Unless you're a racer, any lower puts undue strain on your back. For mountain bikes, two to four inches is right. Make sure your seat is level. And test drive a few different seats before settling one that’s comfy for the long haul.
- Buy your bike from a reputable bike shop, and make friends with your dealer. Repairs and upgrades are a whole lot easier when you have friends in the business.
- Many towns have bike clubs and nearby rails-to-trails multi-use paths that may extend dozens or even hundreds of miles.
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