What Biking Does For You That Walking Doesn't

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What Biking Does For You That Walking Doesn't

Working hard to keep your weight down but feel like you're more stalled than the economy? Try this: Swap your walk for a bike ride. There's new evidence that bicycling is as good for weight control as brisk walking. OK, that probably didn't shock your socks off, but get this: If you're an overweight woman, biking appears to be better than walking. In fact, women with excess weight benefit the most. Hey, sometimes life is fair! Does it matter if you ride an exercise bike indoors or pedal a "real" one outside? Nope. If you bike just two to three hours a week, you're a stunning 46 times less likely to gain weight. Spin away while catching up on your favorite TV shows (what we often do) or spending time with your BBB (best bike buddy). The Harvard researchers who found all this out started by comparing fast and slow walkers with cyclers in the famous Nurses' Health Study. While brisk walking and bike riding were both good at weight control, they stumbled over one gobsmacking difference: Riding a bike was easier than walking for overweight women. SO THEY DID IT. And that, of course, explains everything. Haven't been on a two-wheeler since you wore bell bottoms? Start on a stationary bike or take practice spins in an empty parking lot until you get your confidence back (wear a helmet). Allow a week for your butt to get used to the seat -- it will say uncle, we promise. Then spin your wheels with gusto. ========