There are more than 30 miles of paved bike routes away from our highways and more than 400 miles of dirt singletrack in the Sun Valley area. This implies that everyone has access to excellent bike choices. Our winter ski peak, Bald peak, now offers lift-accessed terrain that includes America’s longest purpose-built downhill route, which is more than 3,100 vertical feet of exhilarating flow trails. The local mountain biking is among the best and most picturesque in the nation. For those folks and families who just want to explore the valley on paved trails, grab a comfort bike or e-bike and head out on the paved Wood River Trail system which offers a variety of destinations and scenic views throughout the valley we call home.
Biking is the new cardio
During this time, my boyfriend was biking, and sending me photos of sunrises, along with the different routes he took each morning. I decided to challenge myself to try biking as it would easier on my joints than running. I knew it would also be a good form of cardio and a way to explore my town.
So I purchased a hybrid bike and rode 15 miles that same day.
A month later, I’ve traveled 200+ miles on my bike. Now, my boyfriend and I bike most mornings and watch the sunrise along our route. I usually listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or music in one ear. After a bike ride, I feel energized, more productive, and gain a clearer headspace throughout the day.
Here are 4 reasons biking improves my physical and mental health.
1. I can explore areas beyond my neighborhood
Biking allows me to go further (compared to on foot). With the longer distance, I become curious to ride down new streets I’ve never explored. My boyfriend and I end up riding through different neighborhoods to find ideas for our next house.
2. I get lots of fresh air outside
Now that I’m working from home, I realize I spend a lot of time inside and don’t get enough fresh air for the majority of the day. So, I look forward to spending my mornings outside taking in the fresh air during a bike ride.
3. It keeps my heart strong and joints unstressed
My favorite thing about biking is that it puts less stress on my joints, while raising my heart rate, and working my cardiovascular system. On average, my heart rate is 140+ bpm, during a morning ride. By the end of the bike ride, I can tell I’ve had a good workout and am ready for a hearty breakfast.
4. I can improve my mental health
Since I bike first thing in the morning, I take this time to check-in mentally. I use the quietness of my surroundings to spend time in my thoughts, think about my plan for the day, and what I look forward to accomplishing. This helps me best to mentally prepare for the day.