The Joys of Cycling
Why ride?
Riding bikes seems like one of those activities that kids do, then once they learn to drive, they ditch the bikes. Yes, cars can take you further, faster, with a lot less physical stress, but there’s something to riding a bicycle that you can’t get from a car.
Riding a bicycle has allowed me to actually see scenery. As well as things such as historical markers that may be otherwise missed, or not appreciated when passing by in a car. I also see Osprey in their nests, or flying high above wetlands. I see rolling hills in the distance, enveloped in a summer haze. Cycling allows me to take in some of the natural world I enjoy so much.
There is also the exploration factor. I’ve always had a good sense of navigation, but cycling has allowed me to keep those skills sharp. I know not only most of the backroads of my town, but the ones in the neighboring town, and some in the town beyond that. Comes in handy when the interstate around here gets backed up, and everyone decides to take main secondary roads, clogging those up.
Of course, there is the fitness element. I’m going to come out and say that cycling isn’t easy. Sure, it may not be difficult if you’re casually riding on a short trip on a greenway trail, but if you’re riding even twenty miles with some decent hills, be prepared to sweat. Sometimes you my struggle, but if you accomplish a fifty mile ride or longer, or successfully ride up a challenging climb, there’s the benefit of confidence. Of knowing you faced the challenge and succeeded.
Conclusion
I could espouse the benefits of cycling even further! I’ve been cycling somewhat seriously now for over thirty years. Been through a few different bicycles, discovered plenty of cool places, lost weight, as well as some weekends on the bike. When I’m on the bike I feel at peace. At one with the machine as my feet hammer down the pedals. No stress from work or other areas of my life. It’s just me, flying down the road on my own piece of freedom on two wheels. Especially at 5:30 AM on a warm summer morning, riding past the beach, and seeing the spectacular sunrise reflect on the the water.
