Costco Connection - September 2010

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cially when it’s cold.” On the way home, he often takes longer routes to sneak in a few extra miles. Not being stuck in traffic in your car is a definite stress buster, says Dr. Martinez.

What’s more, bicycling is low impact, easy on the joints and, depending on the type of bike you ride, may improve core strength. Road bikes that put you in a more forward position, for example, where you must support your upper body, help to strengthen abdominal muscles.

Pedal pushers

Heidi Mylo, 44, of Venice Beach, California, rides 14 miles round trip daily to her chocolate shop in Pacific Palisades. The Costco member has been riding for four years and says she not only lost weight and eats healthier but is fit and stress-free from her daily commute. She is gloomy when it rains and she’s forced to drive. No matter how tough her day is, with a view of the beach and the sunset behind her on the bike path, her stress evaporates. “I’ll be doing this until I can’t ride a bike anymore,” she says.

Trusty two-wheeler

With bicycling being kinder to the envi-

The Costco Connection A variety of bike styles, including comfort, road and trail bikes, and bicycle helmets are available at Costco and on Costco.com.

ronment, saving on gas and promoting fitness, combining your workout with your commute is a win-win. The only downside, says Dr. Martinez, is cycling doesn’t build bone density the way running and other weight-bearing activities can. Women who are concerned about osteoporosis and preserving bone health should add walking or weightlifting to their routine.

However, cycling yields long-term benefits of improved cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, increased lung capacity and improved metabolic function, so you burn more calories even at rest. Most cyclists say riding provides a heightened sense of well-being, confidence and improved community spirit, too.

Apparently, a group of 10-year-old Schwinn riders had the right idea. C

Jennifer Nelson covers health for Self, Oprah, Prevention and Parade magazines.

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