Looking to shed those extra pounds? Hoping to hit the reset button and start living a healthier lifestyle?
Well, you can use your bike as a way to get in shape. Riding a bike is a fantastic way to get your muscles working and improve your health. It is the perfect alternative to running or going to the gym. You can get a workout and clear your mind at the same time!
How many miles do you ride your bike for fun?
Do you ride a tandem bike with your spouse? Do you ride to work? To school? To meet up with your friends?
The answer to these questions will determine how many calories you burn while biking and how many pounds you will lose.
Here are some rough guidelines to follow if you want to shed those extra pounds.
Find The Perfect Bike
You want to pick a bike that is the right size and fits you well. If you are a small person, look for a smaller bike. If you are a big person, look for a bigger one. If you are somewhere in between, you can probably find a fair share. Don’t worry too much about the brand or the model. They will all work similarly once you get the hang of it.
The best bike for you will depend on your body size, the amount of weight you want to lose, and your desired pace of riding. The lighter, the faster you will be able to go. Plus, it feels better for your body to be riding at a slower pace. This means you will get more calories burned and be more active.
So, how many miles do you typically ride your bike for fun?
Ride Often
You will lose weight faster if you regularly ride your bike. Once you get into the habit of riding, you will want to ride as much as you can. Even if it’s just for a few minutes, you will feel better afterward. Plus, you will have burned calories and improved your health. Riding is one of the simplest ways to get in shape and lose weight.
Ride For An Hour Or More
If you are looking to shed those extra pounds, you should consider the amount of time you spend on your bike. The longer you ride, the more calories you burn and the faster you will lose weight. It’s not unusual for people to lose a pound a week just by riding their bike regularly.
Try Not To Pedal Too Fast
People who pedal faster than necessary will lose weight faster than people who put in the effort more moderately. You should always put your body in a comfortable position and at the right angle while you are biking. This will make a difference in how quickly you will lose weight and how much exercise you get. Try not to pedal too fast or put too much stress on your knees as this will make a difference in how long you can keep up with the exercise regimen and how often you may have to take a break due to pain or discomfort.
Choose A Larger Variety Of Fruit
If you are into weight loss, consider the amount of fruit you eat. It is high in fiber and low in calories, so it will help you to meet your goal. Instead of having a pear, have a basket full of fruit, such as apples, pears, and bananas to choose from. You will be much more likely to indulge in something sweet, and this will cause you to gain weight. Having a larger variety of fruit will give you a better chance of staying slim.
Use A Resistance Bike Trainer
A trainer is a device you wear around your waist that allows you to practice riding without hurting yourself. Most people who use a trainer also lose a lot of weight, so it’s a great accessory for anyone looking to shed those extra pounds. When you are riding on a trainer, your calorie burn is doubled, and your speed is improved. It’s the perfect way to get a workout without having to worry about hurting yourself. Just make sure you wear the proper shoes for biking with a trainer.
Consume More Protein
If you are looking to shed those extra pounds, you should consider taking in more protein. Protein helps to build muscle and, as a result, increases your calorie burn. Most people who try to lose weight end up consuming more protein, and this gives them a better chance at reaching their goals. When ordering food or purchasing prepared meals, choose those that are higher in protein content so you can gain a bit of an advantage over those around you who are slimmer than you.
What Type Of Bike Helmet Is The Best?
Another important factor to consider is the type of bike helmet you will be using. There are several different types of bike helmets out there, and each one is designed for a specific purpose. For instance, there is the athletic helmet, which is designed to protect your head from head to toe during hard biking. There is also the classic motorcycle helmet, which is designed to offer better air flow and comfort compared to other types of bike helmets. Aside from the type of bike helmet you will be using, you should also be considering the style of head protection you will be getting. For instance, if you are into old-school designs, you should get a classic motorcycle helmet, which is also made of a steel material and has a wire mesh interior. On the other hand, if you are into more modern designs, you should look for an athletic helmet, which is equipped with a polycarbonate shell and a tinted screen to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Now that you know how many calories you burn while biking and how many pounds you can lose, you can set your sights on a healthier living. Just make sure you follow the guidelines laid out here, and you will be on your way to a more slender and energetic lifestyle in no time!