Bicycling through NYC & LA can surely get you from point A to B quicker than public transportation and sometimes even driving, especially during rush hour. Besides being an eco-friendly alternate method of transportation, cycling is also fun and beneficial to your health.

According to research it only takes two to four hours a week of riding to improve your overall physical well-being. Not to mention the various positive mental and emotional health indications.

Your quick and easy cycling fact sheet:

• It’s low impact – it causes less strain on the knees and less injuries to the legs than most other forms of exercise.
• It’s a good muscle workout – cycling utilizes all of the major muscle groups.
• It’s easy – unlike some other sports (even running), cycling does not require high levels of physical skill. Most people know how to ride a bike and once you learn, you don’t forget (although proper form is everything!)
• Good for building strength and stamina – cycling increases stamina, strength and aerobic fitness.
• As intense as you wanna be– cycling can be low intensity which is great for those recovering from an injury or illness (consult your doctor, first!), but can also be a high-intensity workout depending on your speed/ gear level and distance.
• Whenever, wherever – the adventure and buzz you get from coasting down hills and being outdoors means you are more likely to continue to cycle regularly, unlike other physical activities that keep you indoors or require specific scheduling and locations.
• Time-efficient – as a mode of transport, cycling replaces sedentary (sitting) time spent driving motor vehicles or using trams, trains or buses with healthy exercise.

Bike New York is now offering bikes for free!

Check out this site (http://www.bike.nyc/education/earn­a­bike/) for more details.