There are many obvious benefits to cycling that many people choose to ignore. Sure, it seems like it would be faster to drive to the store during dinner time rush hour, but is it really? Chances are it is not faster. In fact, you could probably get to your destination within a much shorter period of time if you took your bicycle than if you drove your vehicle. Many people who live in big cities are finding that taking their bicycle to work is actually faster than driving there.



Of course there is the obvious benefit of saving money. Finances are a big reason that many people ride their bicycle instead of driving. Riding a bicycle is much cheaper than driving your vehicle. Whenever you start your vehicle, it uses gas. Driving it costs money in gas and oil as well. One little trip to the store can cost you a few dollars in gas where if you rode your bike it would cost nothing at all.

The maintenance on your vehicle likely totals at least a few hundred dollars a year, while the maintenance on a bicycle is a few dollars. Your bicycle only needs a little oil on the chain, air in the tires and maybe a bolt tightened here or there.

Another notable benefit of cycling is health. With a bike ride you get resistance training, endurance training and a cardiovascular work out all in one. The health benefits of riding a bicycle are amazing ? going out three or four times a week for an hour-long bike ride can improve your physical health immensely.

It is important to remember that just as your vehicle needs fuel to run, so does your body if you are cycling. It's important to drink lots of fluids and eat properly or you could find yourself running out of energy. Cycling without eating right and maintaining your fluid intake can be dangerous to your health, so be sure to ?fuel up? before heading out on a ride.

Having the proper cycling gear and apparel can also help with the benefits. Having comfortable clothing for your ride will help you ride longer and more efficiently. Proper cycling clothing is perfect for short or long cycling trips. Cycling apparel, especially pro issued apparel, is made to fit properly with padding in the right places for the best support and comfort. The material that bike clothing is made out of is breathable, which allows your body to expel its heat and allow air to flow through to your skin. The cycling clothing that is made today has also become more fashionable. Much of the custom cycling apparel available can be used as every day wear, which means you can get off your bike and pop into a store or the golf club and no one would be any the wiser.

Using your bicycle also aids the environment by lowering the vehicle emissions being released into the atmosphere. Even one day a week of bicycling would help make a difference in he community you live in. Riding greatly reduces the noise, congestion and fuel emission levels in your home town. You can be happy in knowing you are doing a small part to help the earth as well as your body when you choose to bike to work, school, or the store.

With all of the benefits of cycling, get out there, ride your bike and enjoy yourself!

~Ben Anton, 2007