11.20.14 Healthy Me, Better Year Update: Kia McLeod
I can still remember it as if it were yesterday: hearing the voice of my daddy, the army sergeant, “Training wheels are for wimps”. Then he lifted me up into the air and down onto my first bike. Standing behind him were my sister and brothers who were ALL chuckling, while anxiously waiting for me to hit the ground. Then daddy grabbed the back of the bike, pushed and shouted, “PEDAL.”
At first, I was shaking so much that I could barely hold on to the handlebars. For a moment, I had lost control and the bike started wobbling from side-to-side. Then, I heard a wave of laughter roaring from behind me. But I was determined not to give my siblings the satisfaction of watching me fall; so I pushed my feet down and up and up down a little bit harder, while focusing on that repetitious circular motion that daddy had explained to me. Before I knew it, I felt the wind blowing against my face as I looked straight ahead and pedaled as if my life had depended on it.
During that first ride and every one since, I have relished in the overwhelming feeling of independence and freedom that comes from cycling. I also have enjoyed the great health benefits associated with hitting the road. According to Women’s Health Magazine, a 135-pound woman pedaling 12 to 14 miles an hour blasts 488 calories in 60 minutes.Cycling also improves energy levels by 20 percent and decreased fatigue by 65 percent by triggering the brain to release the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is linked to energy, says Women’s Health Magazine.
The fact of the matter is that we can all use a boost every now and then. That’s why I made the commitment to move my body for at least 15 minutes every day as a part of the Healthy Me, Better Year Pledge. Unfortunately, I rarely have the time to hit the biking trails anymore. Today, I am taking a spin class on the weekends at the local YMCA.
Whether you choose to spin, bike, jog or run in place behind your desk, taking the Healthy Me, Better Year Pledge is an opportunity to put yourself first and be healthier and happier YOU! I hope to see you soon on a biking trail or in spin class!
Posted by HIN Staff
on November 20, 2014