It’s May, which means warmer weather, blooming plants, and it’s National Bike Month!
Since 1956, the League of American Bicyclists has promoted May as National Bike Month, and communities all across America are celebrating. Riding a bicycle is an activity that can have profound impacts on your health. It is recommended by the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans to get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week and riding a bicycle can be a fun, low-impact way to meet this goal. To find out if you are exercising at a moderate pace, consider the talk test. If you are able to hold a conversation throughout your bicycle ride, but find yourself unable to sing, then you are exercising at a moderate pace. Meeting this activity goal weekly can help you reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and improve your mental health.
National Bike Month encourages Americans to get active and you can celebrate during these dates:
Sunday, May 4 – National Ride a Bike Day
Wednesday, May 7 – Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day
May 12-18 – Bike to Work Week
Friday, May 16 – Bike to Work Day
If you’re considering a new summer activity, or want to explore Florida at a more leisurely pace, consider taking a ride on one of the many trails in Central Florida. Here are just a few:
For more information about Bike Month, visit the League of American Bicyclists. For more information on local bicycle trails in Orange County, visit Orange County Parks & Recreation.
Interested in health and wellness classes? Visit UF/IFAS Extension Orange County Eventbrite for a list of upcoming classes.
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