Healthy Living - Bicycling Your Way to Fitness

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Bicycling Your Way to Fitness

Bike-riding is often recommended as a good way to get exercise. It's a low-impact alternative to jogging and burns about 10 calories a minute during moderate exertion.

However, many people find bicycling uncomfortable - from sore buttocks to aches in the neck, shoulders, and hands. The bicycle industry is addressing these pains with new shock absorbing materials and new saddle design. It also recommends that you use a bike that fits properly.

Most any bike shop can adjust your pedal position, seat height, distance from the seat to the handlebars, and other parameters to make sure your bike fits your physique. They will also show you the proper riding position.

Once your bike is adjusted for fit, you can further improve your comfort by having the right accessories such as bike shoes, padded shorts, and cycling gloves.