Friday, May 18, 2018

Bike to work - a fun and effective way to train

May is national bike month.  Across the country cities are promoting and celebrating Bike To Work Day and it just so happens to be one of my favorite community service projects.  As a fitness professional, Bike To Work Day is fun and positive experience.  Co-workers coordinate meet ups and help each other along.  There are pit stops that are run by volunteers and stashed with food and swag.  There's no better positive reinforcement than BTWD and I've never met someone who has biked to work that didn't have the most authentic smile of joy on their face.

Living over 20 miles from my work, I used to only bike to work maybe once every few months.  Coordinating car and kid pick up was quite the puzzle and then making sure I took my computer and clothes.  Over the last year, I have created many solutions to increase my commute to 2-3 times a month and sometimes weekly!  And I absolutely love it.

Top 5 Reasons Why I Hop on my bike:
1. Great way to start the day - I sometimes think, sometimes I don't.  Sometimes I listen to music.
2. Don't have to be in the car
3. Great for my training.  Because it is a commute, I don't feel the pressure to go fast or slow. I just cruise in.  Before I know it, I've done 20 miles and I am ready to go.  Charged up!
4. Car sharing.  Having a teenager that can drive is great.  She is quite helpful in helping her younger sister from school and getting them food.  She doesn't have a car yet so me biking in means she can use my car.  Win for me, win for her, and win for her sisters!
5. Fun!!!  I love riding my bike and whether i commute by trail or by road I feel free.  Riding with a friend just doubles the fun.

Happy Commuting!
Chi