Biking is one of the best ways to get around town. From saving time and improving your health to helping the environment, it offers many advantages over driving.

Some key benefits include:

• A Faster Commute: Beating traffic by bike, especially during rush hour, is often the quickest way to travel locally.
• Community Connections: Biking helps you explore neighborhoods and increases the chance to meet fellow residents.
• Better Health: Cycling improves cardiovascular health, lowering risks of illness like heart disease and diabetes. Just 30 minutes a day provides great exercise.
• Eco-Friendly: Bikes take up less space than cars and produce zero emissions, helping keep the air clean.
• Improved Work Performance: The aerobic exercise from biking enhances focus, time management, motivation and ability to handle stress.
• Quality Sleep: Regular cycling helps you fall asleep faster, sleep more soundly, and wake more refreshed.

While the benefits are plentiful, it’s important to bike safely by:

• Wearing a helmet to prevent head injuries.
• Following traffic laws and using hand signals. Be predictable.
• Watching for opening car doors and scoping intersections thoroughly.
• Never biking against traffic. Staying alert and aware.
• Announcing passing maneuvers to alert other cyclists.

Starting a biking habit is easy and fun with these tips:

• Start slowly on short neighborhood trips to build confidence.
• Find routes separate from heavy traffic.
• Check maps for bike-friendly paths.
• Get properly fitted equipment and a bike that suits your needs. Visit local shops.
• Ride once a week instead of driving to start, then add more trips over time.
• Set goals and be patient with yourself as you adjust to life on two wheels!