Time to get back on our bikes

Aug 17 2006 By The Journal

Cycling is enjoying an extraordinary renaissance in Britain.

It seems we can't wait to get on our bikes, both to escape congested roads and get fit.

If your only memories are of wobbling along on a bike as a child or discarding two-wheeled travel as soon as you could drive a car, then it may be time for a rethink.

Jamie Baird, a fitness trainer whose celebrity clients include Madonna and Guy Ritchie, believes cycling is one of the easiest ways to boost your health. Now Jamie, who cycles to work daily, has written Cycling Fit, a blueprint for bikers.

He says: "When it comes to a fast, fun, easy way to get fit and save the petrol money, I reckon you can't beat a bike. It's a no-brainer.

"Cycling from A to B has kept me healthy and in shape throughout my life. It's time-efficient and on many a day, a quicker option than other forms of transport." He has reassuring words for those who fear exposing wobbly body bits more than wobbly wheels, saying you don't have to be superfit to get on a bike.

"But if you start to cycle regularly you will certainly notice a gradual improvement in your fitness levels," he says.

"Of course, most of us would like to shed a few pounds and cycling can be a great way to burn off calories. A 15-minute bike ride to and from work five times a week burns off the equivalent of 11 pounds of fat in a year."

And if you still need encouragement, Jamie says getting on your bike will boost your mood.

"Cycling's a tremendous way to beat stress, get your weekly quota of fresh air and raise your endorphin levels - all of which will boost your confidence and sense of wellbeing."

So what are you waiting for?

* Cycling Fit, by Jamie Baird (in association with Zest magazine), is published by Anova Books at £9.99.