Bike for Mental Fitness

If you want to try bike riding as a consistent source of exercise try to keep the below tips in mind. Riding your bike is an excellent way to stay in shape and is an activity that can be enjoyed alone or with your friends and family. These tips are designed to get you over the hump and biking regularly. Always check with your doctor before deciding to follow any new fitness routine.

1. Try different types of riding. If you ride most days for either speed or endurance, work in some moderate riding days during your periods of rest. On the moderate days you can bring the kids along to enjoy the ride. Remember that rest is important to any regimen and don't overdo it or you will quit. But riding with the family is a great way to stay motivated.

2. Grab a friend. It has been proven again and again that buddying up will help keep your fitness routine consistent. If you have children, look into bringing them along for your moderate days.

3. Eat GOOD carbs. Carbohydrates are not evil; you just need to choose carefully and eat in moderation. Before your ride, load up on nuts, fruits and veggies. It is best to avoid processed carbs and refined sugars. Protein is also your friend. Protein will give you sustained energy which is essential, especially for your endurance days.

4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate. Not only should you drink during your ride, but be sure to drink before your ride as well. If you feel very thirsty, you are already starting to dehydrate. Our bodies are 50 to 60 percent water so let's keep it that way.

5. Keep a log of what you are eating and where you are riding. Keeping records has always helped me to keep track of my fitness goals, especially when I just getting started. Writing down goals and acheivements triggers a mental response that makes us feel more accountable. A simple google search will bring you lots of different fitness calendars and goal sheets. I highly recommend finding one that works for you.

The tips in this article are designed to keep you riding after you have started. Too many times I have seen beginners get very excited in the beginning and lose interest quickly. That is a shame because bike riding for fitness can be lots of fun and certainly keep you in shape. It is also an activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family, which is great for physical and emotional health. So keep on getting out there and enjoy your rides.