Cycling is an aerobic exercise you can use to keep yourself in shape! It helps you lose weight and gives you an instant mood boost—two things that will surely contribute to living a healthier lifestyle. The best part is that cycling is fun too! Learn how you can step up your cycling routine—and eventually even join a race—with these three easy tips. 1. Suck your belly in.
This applies whether you’re on a real bike or a stationary bike. Lower your seat, so you don’t have to hunch down to hold the handlebars. Let your thighs, buttocks, and calves do the work instead of your knees.
2. Do some on-bike stretching.
It reduces strain and tightness in the neck, face, arms, shoulders, and back. It also helps you ride longer without getting too exhausted. However, do this only if you can maintain control of your bike. Don’t do stretches when cycling with a group. Here are some examples of exercises you can do:
(a) Open your mouth wide to stretch your jaw muscles. Move your lips left to right to stretch your cheek muscles. Never grit your teeth while bicycling.
(b) Lower your head slightly as you arch your back. Next, straighten your back and lift your head to straighten your spine. Hold each position for five seconds each.
3. Bike on inclines.
Start with gradual slopes before progressing to steeper slants. Set off in a lower gear to avoid climbs. Keep your upper body relaxed, tuck your elbows in, and straighten your back. Don’t grip the bars too tightly.
(First published in Good Housekeeping Magazine, Better Body Section as "Rev It Up!" in January-February 2006; adapted for use in Female Network; photo by Ping Timeout via Flickr Creative Commons)
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