.. it can be done in many fun and exciting ways. Bike riding, mountain climbing, skating, jogging are just a few activities that also double ...
What's the best way to loss weight? That is a question being asked by millions of post baby boomers who are seeing a sharp spike in obesity rates globally. Exercising is a preferred choice by many because it can be done in many fun and exciting ways.
Bike riding, mountain climbing, skating, jogging are just a few activities that also double as socializing events. A nice spring day at the park will reveal children and couples getting exercise while enjoying themselves at the same time. Exercise doesn't have to be restricted to a gym pushing heavy bulky machines around while sweating profusely. This image usually pops into peoples mind when the word exercise is mentioned.
If I were to suggest we do 10,000 sit ups as a way to get exercise the chances are you would decline my offer. Yet, if I were to invite you for a bike ride around the city you would probably be more willing to tag alone. If you look at the amount of exercise done from the sit-ups and the bike though, they are about the same. The bike is simply more enjoyable but yields the same physical exertion. More exercise equals more weight loss in most cases no matter how you go about doing it. Exercise is one of the best weight loss methods around.
Vitamin and diet pills have become a popular way to loss weight beginning in the last century. The days of being viewed as alternative medicines by the mainstream are gone. Even though there is still a lot of controversy over certain pills that hit the market, the industry has seen a sharp rise in recent years. This is due to the fact that more money has been put in advertising and just the general acceptance by the media overall.
Once and a while a pill must be recalled due to health risk but it doesn't seem to slow the popularity down in the least bit. Vitamin supplements such as Centrum are cherished by many including the elderly as a staple of life. Diet pills including Xenical, Acomplia and Reductil are gaining momentum on the market establishing it's own popularity primarily with new diet consumers.
These types of pills work by curbing the appetite so people feel hungry less. The less you feel hungry results in eating less over time. Working in conjunction with healthy eating vitamin and diet pills can cause weight loss.
As the old saying goes, You are what you eat and what you eat will determine if you are a size eight or an eighteen. Eating healthy foods that are rich in essential amino acids, proteins and carbohydrates is very important for everyone but especially for someone trying to lose weight. Fruits, vegetables and low fat meats such as fish promote a system where the body stays thoroughly maintained to function properly.
Your body can't know what to let go of if you train it to run on junk. Fast food restaurants offering a menu with low cholesterol items defeat the purpose if your body is already low in cholesterol and needs more of it. In order to eat healthy you must first know what your body lacks and what your body has too much of already.
You must also take into account what types of foods fill in those gaps for you body. A general rule of thumb is to stick to the four basic food groups which are; meats, dairy products, grains, fruits and vegetables. Once you bring your diet under control by eating healthy you can begin to loss weight.
Daniel Millions
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/health/different-ways-lose-weight-and-stay-shape.html
เกี่ยวกับฉัน
วันศุกร์ที่ 16 เมษายน พ.ศ. 2553
วันพุธที่ 14 เมษายน พ.ศ. 2553
Road Biking: Getting In Shape The Fun Way
.. of freedom and speed you get from riding on a road bike, watching the miles fly by as you proppel yourself under your own power ... the hill, or taking tight corners as you fly down a curvy mountain road at car-like speeds. The reason road biking is such a great ...
If you're like most people in America, you're probably looking to get in a bit better shape. Of course, we all know this isn't as easy as it sounds. Finding the time can be difficult, but find the motivation can be even harder when all you have to look forward to is a long slog on the treadmill. You need a way to exercise that you'll love, rather than dread. If you can't wait to go do your workout, you'll certainly be in much better shape.
For me, and for many others, road biking fits this description perfectly. Nothing else is quite like the sensation of freedom and speed you get from riding on a road bike, watching the miles fly by as you proppel yourself under your own power through the scenic countryside. You're getting one of the best workouts there is, but you won't even notice. Instead, you'll be pushing yourself to race your buddies to the top of the hill, or taking tight corners as you fly down a curvy mountain road at car-like speeds.
The reason road biking is such a great workout, besides the fact that its a ton of fun, is that it works multiple body energy systems. Most of you are probably familiar with the concept of "aerobic" and "anaerobic" exercise. Without getting into the details, we can summarize aerobic exercise as long, slow, gradual exercise that keeps your heart rate up, and anaerobic excerise as short, very high intensity effort. Working both systems is essential for optimal fitness, and road biking does just this.
For example, when you're do a long, slow, flat ride, you're helping work your aerobic systems. When you're sprinting that last portion of a steep hill climb, you're getting an intense anaerobic workout. You control what kind of workout you get but what kind of ride you take. It's that simple.
So, what does it take to get in on a great sport like this? Well, its fortunately quite simple. With just a bike, shoes, helmet, proper clothing, and a few other accessories, you're off and ready to go. Since its just ride a bike, you don't need to take any special classes to learn what you need to do. Of course, there will be a slight learning curve if you've never ridden a road bike before.
Compared to the inexpensive, heavy, clunky cheap bikes most people spend their lives riding, a road bike will feel like a highly tuned sports car. In other words, it will be twitchy and fast, and you need to pay attention to keep from crashing. Don't worry, though, you'll catch on soon enough as you start riding.
In fact, once you get going with the riding, you'll discover one of the best things about road biking: progression. The more you ride, the faster you'll get. Soon you'll be timing yourself on your favorite rides, attempting to break your previous records. By doing this, you are literally watching yourself getting in better shape, and having a blast while doing it!
So, I hope all this has helped you see a little what road biking can do for your fitness. It's easy, fun, and can last you a lifetime. Visit your local bike ship today, or read more to find out even more about this great sport.
By.David Wilson
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/fitness/aerobics/road-biking-getting-shape-fun-way.html
If you're like most people in America, you're probably looking to get in a bit better shape. Of course, we all know this isn't as easy as it sounds. Finding the time can be difficult, but find the motivation can be even harder when all you have to look forward to is a long slog on the treadmill. You need a way to exercise that you'll love, rather than dread. If you can't wait to go do your workout, you'll certainly be in much better shape.
For me, and for many others, road biking fits this description perfectly. Nothing else is quite like the sensation of freedom and speed you get from riding on a road bike, watching the miles fly by as you proppel yourself under your own power through the scenic countryside. You're getting one of the best workouts there is, but you won't even notice. Instead, you'll be pushing yourself to race your buddies to the top of the hill, or taking tight corners as you fly down a curvy mountain road at car-like speeds.
The reason road biking is such a great workout, besides the fact that its a ton of fun, is that it works multiple body energy systems. Most of you are probably familiar with the concept of "aerobic" and "anaerobic" exercise. Without getting into the details, we can summarize aerobic exercise as long, slow, gradual exercise that keeps your heart rate up, and anaerobic excerise as short, very high intensity effort. Working both systems is essential for optimal fitness, and road biking does just this.
For example, when you're do a long, slow, flat ride, you're helping work your aerobic systems. When you're sprinting that last portion of a steep hill climb, you're getting an intense anaerobic workout. You control what kind of workout you get but what kind of ride you take. It's that simple.
So, what does it take to get in on a great sport like this? Well, its fortunately quite simple. With just a bike, shoes, helmet, proper clothing, and a few other accessories, you're off and ready to go. Since its just ride a bike, you don't need to take any special classes to learn what you need to do. Of course, there will be a slight learning curve if you've never ridden a road bike before.
Compared to the inexpensive, heavy, clunky cheap bikes most people spend their lives riding, a road bike will feel like a highly tuned sports car. In other words, it will be twitchy and fast, and you need to pay attention to keep from crashing. Don't worry, though, you'll catch on soon enough as you start riding.
In fact, once you get going with the riding, you'll discover one of the best things about road biking: progression. The more you ride, the faster you'll get. Soon you'll be timing yourself on your favorite rides, attempting to break your previous records. By doing this, you are literally watching yourself getting in better shape, and having a blast while doing it!
So, I hope all this has helped you see a little what road biking can do for your fitness. It's easy, fun, and can last you a lifetime. Visit your local bike ship today, or read more to find out even more about this great sport.
By.David Wilson
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/fitness/aerobics/road-biking-getting-shape-fun-way.html
Riding Under The Summer Sun
... holiday for me, as I intend to experience the ever-popular mountain biking holidays for the first time that many active people enjoy! ... to keep active and fit, however, those keen on mountain bike trails will feel the thrill of experiencing a different trail whilst ...
This coming summer will be no ordinary holiday for me, as I intend to experience the ever-popular mountain biking holidays for the first time that many active people enjoy! Mountain biking is best practised during the summer months when the surfaces are dry, no elements are against you and you are less at risk of having an accident. For me the winter periods are best enjoyed with friends or family skiing in the Alps or taking a short spa break away.
Mountain biking holidays are great for people looking for active entertainment with the option of working on your tan at a nearby beach. Some of the most popular places include Chamonix in France, Lake Garda in Italy, the Coast of Andalusia in Southern Spain and even taking a desert ride in Morocco. Many prefer to go trekking to keep active and fit, however, those keen on mountain bike trails will feel the thrill of experiencing a different trail whilst enjoying a different kind of sightseeing.
Since mountain biking holidays are intended for people looking for that extra edge in taking a break, I figured that there is no harm in trying some of the new trick I had learnt when going dirt trail biking in my own home county of Essex. The best rides are ones that come uninterrupted on single tracks, with a few hills and the challenges of climbing tall mountains. The feeling of reaching to the top in the blazing is nothing short of absolute satisfaction and pride.
The journey downwards, for a beginner especially, is somewhat frightening at first, but at the same time, it will take you next to no time to reach to the bottom so this is where you have the most fun. Beginners should be careful, as they are not as familiar with gear changes and knowing when to apply a small amount of pressure on the brakes. Trails like these require a strong bike, designed especially for high impact riding, which will mean that the trail surface will not be a smooth ride.
All mountain biking holidays come in various grading and difficulty, in which different holiday agencies have their own grading system therefore, when you do look for a holiday like this you will find that they will all a different system from each other. It is always good to clarify what each of these levels mean for each agency as one level may not be the same as the other - for instance, you may choose to opt for a moderate trail biking in Bhutan with one agency but find that this may be more difficult than what you had expected.
Similarly, with more experienced bikers, the trails you choose will be based on the difficulty level that may or may not suit your own level. It is always best to gain some insight and research into the specific places that you want to visit prior to making the booking. It is a good idea to speak to people who have had the chance to experience the trails either on forums or to people you know. Most of these expeditions come with expert professional instructors who are always at hand to help and guide you through the trails.
You can pick the holidays based on the difficulty level only rather than the location, if you are a beginner and are unsure of which one to choose. However, as mentioned before an instructor or tour guide will guide you, therefore, you are sure to be taken care of for the duration of your trip. These should be purchased with insurance, like any other activity holiday, just to cover for any potential accident or unpredictable situations that occur.
By.Anna Stenning
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/recreation-and-leisure/travel/riding-under-summer-sun.html
This coming summer will be no ordinary holiday for me, as I intend to experience the ever-popular mountain biking holidays for the first time that many active people enjoy! Mountain biking is best practised during the summer months when the surfaces are dry, no elements are against you and you are less at risk of having an accident. For me the winter periods are best enjoyed with friends or family skiing in the Alps or taking a short spa break away.
Mountain biking holidays are great for people looking for active entertainment with the option of working on your tan at a nearby beach. Some of the most popular places include Chamonix in France, Lake Garda in Italy, the Coast of Andalusia in Southern Spain and even taking a desert ride in Morocco. Many prefer to go trekking to keep active and fit, however, those keen on mountain bike trails will feel the thrill of experiencing a different trail whilst enjoying a different kind of sightseeing.
Since mountain biking holidays are intended for people looking for that extra edge in taking a break, I figured that there is no harm in trying some of the new trick I had learnt when going dirt trail biking in my own home county of Essex. The best rides are ones that come uninterrupted on single tracks, with a few hills and the challenges of climbing tall mountains. The feeling of reaching to the top in the blazing is nothing short of absolute satisfaction and pride.
The journey downwards, for a beginner especially, is somewhat frightening at first, but at the same time, it will take you next to no time to reach to the bottom so this is where you have the most fun. Beginners should be careful, as they are not as familiar with gear changes and knowing when to apply a small amount of pressure on the brakes. Trails like these require a strong bike, designed especially for high impact riding, which will mean that the trail surface will not be a smooth ride.
All mountain biking holidays come in various grading and difficulty, in which different holiday agencies have their own grading system therefore, when you do look for a holiday like this you will find that they will all a different system from each other. It is always good to clarify what each of these levels mean for each agency as one level may not be the same as the other - for instance, you may choose to opt for a moderate trail biking in Bhutan with one agency but find that this may be more difficult than what you had expected.
Similarly, with more experienced bikers, the trails you choose will be based on the difficulty level that may or may not suit your own level. It is always best to gain some insight and research into the specific places that you want to visit prior to making the booking. It is a good idea to speak to people who have had the chance to experience the trails either on forums or to people you know. Most of these expeditions come with expert professional instructors who are always at hand to help and guide you through the trails.
You can pick the holidays based on the difficulty level only rather than the location, if you are a beginner and are unsure of which one to choose. However, as mentioned before an instructor or tour guide will guide you, therefore, you are sure to be taken care of for the duration of your trip. These should be purchased with insurance, like any other activity holiday, just to cover for any potential accident or unpredictable situations that occur.
By.Anna Stenning
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/recreation-and-leisure/travel/riding-under-summer-sun.html
Biking Vacations Over Beach Holidays
The first time I had decided to go mountain biking was, believe it or not, at the tender age of 23 years old! It is unfortunately true that during my childhood I had missed the fun and joys of riding a bike down the streets and even more thrilling doing the paper round! Furthermore, I had never experienced the joys of going on mountain biking holidays with my family, more so because no member in my family (with the exception of one or two) could ride a bike!
Now, this is not to say that I had a deprived upbringing. Far from it, I was simply always afraid of doing something that will risk breaking or injuring my limbs - thus my family opted for safer sports such as golf, badminton and (contrary to fears) swimming! However, this never did stop me from learning to ride a bike, and then fifteen years later actually begin to ride a bike - all in an attempt to prepare myself for the dreaded first timers' mountain biking holidays experience.
Until a few years ago, I did not know that such a holiday existed. In fact, other than skiing, snowboarding, bungee jumping and skydiving, I was not aware of any mountain biking holidays in France - nor was I aware of the mountain biking championships held every year. Clearly, mountain bikers' right now are probably thinking I had not yet lived until I have at least been involved in one biking holiday!
However, I did learn that places like Les Gets (France), riding the Andes (Chile and Argentina), Cuba and even as far as Ethiopia accommodated space for mountain biking. An adventure like this seems too good to be true for avid biking fans; many would place this on the same par as bungee jumping or skydiving. This is the thrill junkies dream, but also a sightseer's experience of a lifetime. This is certainly something I am looking forward to experiencing.
Holidays in places like Ethiopia for some people, may conjure up an image of an impoverished country with dusty plains and bumpy rough roads. Far from this misconception lies a colourful history, friendly people full of pride in their country and living in a country, which has some of the highest plateau peaks in the continent. As well as the 6500m of descent, there is still an awful lot of climbing and the odd rocky road tracks and mountain trails to keep you busy.
The French Alps is famous for all it sporting versatility, more specifically skiing. However, when the snow melts down and the sun beams through it is a relaxing yet stimulating mountain biking haven. The high mountain peaks caters for bikers of all levels, from avid professional mountain bike enthusiasts to first time free riders. There are chalets nearby that accommodate for people of all ages and these offer French and English speaking guides to provide people with a tour of the land.
For those looking to relax on the beach Spain, try taking a trip to the Marina Alta Mountains in Valencia whereby people can spend a week following the winding trails whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery beside them. These mountain tracks were originally carved out for donkeys and over the years, these side trails became over grown. However, this mountain trail is almost hidden from tourists; thus making this an uninterrupted riding experience.
People planning a holiday should consider the prospects of mountain bike holidays, this is not something that should be approached hesitantly but more for the joy of experiencing something new. Not to mention a cheaper and ideal way to keep fit whilst enjoying a relaxing holiday abroad. Holidays does not need to involve copious amounts of alcohol and beaches; the option for taking part in something is thought to be uplifting, stimulating and even refreshing.
By.Anna Stenning
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/recreation-and-leisure/travel/biking-vacations-over-beach-holidays.html
Is Mountain Biking For You?
... develop are snowboarding, rollerblading, skateboarding and mountain biking. While none of these sports would be able to assist in a ... to pedal at breakneck speed down Everest. A mountain bike is not your average bicycle, and the extreme end of the sport may be quite ...
Since the beginning of time, the human race has been inventing new games and sports. In ancient times, games were invented to test endurance and train warriors for acts of war. Some of the newest sports to develop are snowboarding, rollerblading, skateboarding and mountain biking. While none of these sports would be able to assist in a warfare type situation, they are pretty extreme sports and will definitely keep you fit and your "fight or flight" responses working at peak conditions.
Mountain biking has transformed the traditional bicycle, first available in the late 1800's, into a well oiled piece of machinery. The knock-on effect of this has created one of the most exciting and popular new sports of the 21st Century.
Regardless of the fact that the sport is referred to as "mountain biking" it is actually suitable for everyone, regardless of background biking proficiency and age. Although I wouldn't recommend that my ninety-year-old grandmother participate, she might disagree with me as she is always up for a new challenge. Some of the most appealing things about this sport is that you can participate at relatively low cost, and that you can start off slowly. Just because you're mountain biking, it doesn't mean that you have to pedal at breakneck speed down Everest.
A mountain bike is not your average bicycle, and the extreme end of the sport may be quite simply described as "bicycling on steroids". Mountain biking will always demand more of you than just pedaling along a flat road on a sunny afternoon. Even the bike itself is built with this in mind. It's more streamlined and muscular in appearance than the good, old fashioned, racing bike. Characteristically, the frame is built from chunky, rounded tubing suspended above shock absorbers and the tires are also chunky and knobby.
The terrain that mountain biking takes place in is very different from the more traditional form of biking. Mountain bikes are made to go up and down rocky trails and descend into muddy streambeds and sandbanks. This is normally all the fun of the activity.
The mountain biker does have to be an adrenaline junkie to some extent. It is more physically demanding than other more passive forms of biking, and requires razor sharp reflexes and quick thinking in the face of hazards or danger. These skills can be learned, but don't think that on your first ride you are going to be able to accomplish the same result as a seasoned master of the trails. You need to take your time and develop first-rate mountain biking legs.
But if you think you are going to like this sport and are determined to take part in mountain biking, it is helpful to have a basic knowledge of the different categories available to you. Here are the five different popular categories of mountain biking.
1. The most popular is "Cross Country," which is normally undertaken on rough, woodland paths.
2. "Downhill Mountain Biking" entails racing downhill and includes large jumps.
3. "Dirt Jumping" is about exhibiting the biggest and most amazing stunts.
4. "Free Riding" is riding out without any particular style.
5. "Urban Riding" involves grinding ledges and can be done anywhere.
Each category needs a different bike that suits the terrain, and possibly a slightly different personality type as well. Once you have chosen your desired category and your preferred bike, all that will be left for you to do is start pedaling.
By.Sebastian Marders
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/recreation-and-leisure/sports/biking/mountain-biking-you.html
Since the beginning of time, the human race has been inventing new games and sports. In ancient times, games were invented to test endurance and train warriors for acts of war. Some of the newest sports to develop are snowboarding, rollerblading, skateboarding and mountain biking. While none of these sports would be able to assist in a warfare type situation, they are pretty extreme sports and will definitely keep you fit and your "fight or flight" responses working at peak conditions.
Mountain biking has transformed the traditional bicycle, first available in the late 1800's, into a well oiled piece of machinery. The knock-on effect of this has created one of the most exciting and popular new sports of the 21st Century.
Regardless of the fact that the sport is referred to as "mountain biking" it is actually suitable for everyone, regardless of background biking proficiency and age. Although I wouldn't recommend that my ninety-year-old grandmother participate, she might disagree with me as she is always up for a new challenge. Some of the most appealing things about this sport is that you can participate at relatively low cost, and that you can start off slowly. Just because you're mountain biking, it doesn't mean that you have to pedal at breakneck speed down Everest.
A mountain bike is not your average bicycle, and the extreme end of the sport may be quite simply described as "bicycling on steroids". Mountain biking will always demand more of you than just pedaling along a flat road on a sunny afternoon. Even the bike itself is built with this in mind. It's more streamlined and muscular in appearance than the good, old fashioned, racing bike. Characteristically, the frame is built from chunky, rounded tubing suspended above shock absorbers and the tires are also chunky and knobby.
The terrain that mountain biking takes place in is very different from the more traditional form of biking. Mountain bikes are made to go up and down rocky trails and descend into muddy streambeds and sandbanks. This is normally all the fun of the activity.
The mountain biker does have to be an adrenaline junkie to some extent. It is more physically demanding than other more passive forms of biking, and requires razor sharp reflexes and quick thinking in the face of hazards or danger. These skills can be learned, but don't think that on your first ride you are going to be able to accomplish the same result as a seasoned master of the trails. You need to take your time and develop first-rate mountain biking legs.
But if you think you are going to like this sport and are determined to take part in mountain biking, it is helpful to have a basic knowledge of the different categories available to you. Here are the five different popular categories of mountain biking.
1. The most popular is "Cross Country," which is normally undertaken on rough, woodland paths.
2. "Downhill Mountain Biking" entails racing downhill and includes large jumps.
3. "Dirt Jumping" is about exhibiting the biggest and most amazing stunts.
4. "Free Riding" is riding out without any particular style.
5. "Urban Riding" involves grinding ledges and can be done anywhere.
Each category needs a different bike that suits the terrain, and possibly a slightly different personality type as well. Once you have chosen your desired category and your preferred bike, all that will be left for you to do is start pedaling.
By.Sebastian Marders
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/recreation-and-leisure/sports/biking/mountain-biking-you.html
Get On Your Bike - Bicycle Buying Guide
Bicycles can be used for a number of purposes, including recreation, fitness, transportation and sports. If you are planning on purchasing a new bike, consider the terrain you will be riding on as well as your body weight. Are you finding it difficult to choose a new cycle? Go through this buying guide for exhaustive information on bicycles and make the right choice.
What types of bicycles are available?
Different types of bicycles, such as BMX, road, racing, touring, comfort, kids, womens, tandem and more, are available for sale. Here is an in-depth look at some popular models.
Road Bikes:
Road bikes are built for paved roads. They have thin tires, dropped handlebars and lightweight frames made of aluminum or carbon. The majority of these cycles have 21 speeds. Sport bikes, touring bikes, racing bikes, triathlon bikes, cruisers and choppers also fall under this category.
Mountain Bikes:
Mountain bikes are durable enough to withstand serious off-road racing. Sturdy frames, strong brakes, flat handlebars and 26-inch wheels make these bikes highly popular. Their low gears assist you in off-road racing, especially when going uphill and riding through mud. These cycles are heavy and can withstand rough handling. In a few models, the front suspension and rear suspension offer comfort, even while riding over uneven ground.
Comfort Bikes:
These bikes are good for beginners. Comfort bikes come with adjustable vertical handlebars, comfy seats, 26 inch wide and low pressure tires and suspension forks. They are made for short rides on well-maintained bike paths.
Hybrid/Cross Bikes:
These all-purpose bicycles combine the features of road and mountain bikes. They have a wide gear ratio, upright handlebars and narrow tires. Their frames are lightweight, making these perfect for pavement riding and minor off-road racing. Hybrid/cross bikes usually come with mudguards.
Recumbent Bikes:
If you cannot handle the physical strain associated with traditional bicycles, consider recumbent cycles. These bikes can go fast and provide comfortable seating. However, they do have some pitfalls. They are expensive compared to most standard bikes and their transportation by car may prove to be more difficult as well, especially long wheelbase models.
BMX Bikes:
BMX (Bicycle Motocross) bikes owe their invention to the popularity of motocross dirt bike racing. These bikes can be ridden through woods or around dirt-tracks. Though BMX cycles resemble mountain bikes, their wheels and frames are comparatively smaller. These bikes are suitable for kids and young riders. BMX racing bikes are built for racing on dirt tracks. BMX freestyle bikes are designed for doing tricks whereas BMX dirt jumping bikes are made for getting airborne on dirt tracks.
Chopper Bikes:
These bikes are based on chopper motorcycles. Chopper bikes feature wide rear tires, large cushioned seats and extended handlebars. These bikes are not recommended for off-road racing.
Womens Bikes:
Womens bicycles are smaller, designed to suit the build of the average woman. They have narrow handlebars, short top tubes and wide saddles.
Kids Bikes:
Is your child pining for a bicycle? Compact bikes with small frames are ideal for children. These bikes are easy to ride and durable. Many kids bicycles come with training wheels attached. Other cycles give you the option to attach separately sold training wheels. Go for kids bikes with spoke guards and coaster brakes that allow children to stop when pedaling backwards.
Tandem Bikes:
Do you want to make cycling more fun? Get a tandem bike that accommodates two or more people at one time.
What are other factors to consider when purchasing a bike and getting into the rewarding sport cycling
Frame Materials:
Frames are made of different materials depending on the type of bicycle.
Steel
The most commonly used frame material is steel. Chromoly (chromium-molybdenum steel) is lighter than carbon steel, but both are strong and durable.
Carbon Fiber
These strong and lightweight frames offer a good ride.
Titanium
Titanium is one of the most rugged, durable and costliest frame materials you can get.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a stiff and strong material. Aluminum frames are good for riders looking for lightweight bikes.
Suspension:
Hybrid, comfort and mountain bikes feature suspension forks. Forks assist you in riding over rough tracks more easily and comfortably.
Wheels:
Wheels play a vital role in bikes. Single-alloy hubs with rubber axle seals, few spokes and sealed bearings are recommended. Stainless steel spokes and aluminum rims are lightweight and rust free.
Gears:
Gears are crucial to ride on uneven surfaces. On flat surfaces, only 3 or 4 gears are needed. When it comes to hills and challenging terrain, a bike with a 21, 24 or 27 speed drivetrain is necessary. Go for bikes with gears that are easy to shift.
Brakes:
Most bikes are equipped with either rim brakes (V-brakes), linear brakes or hub brakes. Disc brakes, the latest brake type, provide brilliant braking and low maintenance, but are expensive.
Seats:
Look for anatomical shapes, flexible frames, gel padding and cushioning springs in your seats.
What accessories are available for bicycles?
If you are getting a new bicycle, you should check out the following accessories. Some accessories are absolutely necessary, while others are strictly for your own convenience.
Helmets:
Helmets are vital accessories to avoid head injuries. They come in kid and adult sizes as well as many colors.
Locks:
Protect your bicycle from theft with a bike lock. Locks are highly recommended if you plan on leaving your bicycle in any public area unattended.
Flat Kits:
For long rides, it is wise to carry a flat kit and a small frame-mounted pump to fill your tires with air. The kit should include a new tube, basic patch kit, tire iron, wrench, rag and small seat bag.
Pumps:
To fill your tires with air whenever you need, buy bicycle pumps.
Computers and Monitors:
A cyclocomputer is a digital speedometer that shows speed, distance and time traveled during your bicycle ride. High-end models come with GPS functions and can measure your heart rate and power output.
Mudguards:
Keep yourself and your bike clean with mudguards.
Baskets and Panniers:
Attach baskets and panniers to your bike to carry heavier loads.
Covers/Storage:
Protect your bicycles with cycle covers and storage solutions, such as lightweight aluminum storage stands.
Carriers:
For small cars, carriers (also referred to as bike racks) that attach to the roof are ideal. For big cars, like vans an SUVs, use carriers that attach to the rear of your vehicle.
By.Bob Shanty
Article Source:
Include this link when reprinting this article: http://www.freearticles.co.za/recreation-and-leisure/sports/biking/get-your-bike-bicycle-buying-guide.html
Mountain Bike Shoes ,Tread The Toughest Terrain
Mountain bike shoes are specialized footwear. They are customized for the kind of cycling you plan to do, the model of your cycle, the terrain you are going to cover and finally your personalized needs.
However, the basic criterion that makes a cycling shoe is determined by the pedal of the bike.
Originally, biking shoes were made of hard leather soles made firmer with a metal or plastic shoe plate or cleat nailed to it. The cleat had a slot that fitted into the pedal of the cycle, while the toe clip and strap worked to keep the bikers grip on the pedals.
When the clipless pedal became the norm, the features of the cycling shoes had to be modernized accordingly. Hence, the shoes featured cavities or clefts to smoothly accommodate cleats for clipless pedal machines for instance in Shimano's SPD (Shimano Pedaling Dynamics) and LOOK.
Special features of modern cycling shoes.
Mountain cycling shoes have features that make it safe and ideal for this fun filled yet highly challenging activity. They are:
1. Sole is very smooth, tough and inflexible
2. Sole is slightly curved at the ball of the foot that works to transfer force and pressure to the toe while cycling
3. Adaptable while in use
4. Features either velcro straps or even more complex straps instead of laces
5. Unhooks easily
Types of cycling shoes soles
The stuff the sole is made of and degree of tread it ensures determines the weight of the shoe, which is vital to this special footwear. There are generally three kinds of soles available:
1. Economical brands feature an injection-molded plastic sole. However, they are heavier and prone to flexing.
2. Moderately priced brands have a combination sole, either made of plastic and carbon fibre, plastic and fibreglass, or completely carbon fibre.
3. Premium brands manufactured post-2002 use carbon fibre soles.
How do the cleats of mountain cycling shoes differ from others?
The kind of pedals your cycle features determines the cleat. A clipless type pedals requires some specific cleats.
Mountain biking shoes generally come with a sunken cleat and studs lining the sole. This helps negotiate the tough terrains. These mountain specific cleats are smaller than those designed for road shoes (that generally have protruding cleats and are attached with three bolts) and are fixed to the shoe with two bolts.
Quality of the shoe
For knowing the quality of the shoe you plan to buy, check the following:
1. The firmness and grip of the sole: A stiff sole ensures better pedaling
2. What is it made of?: Premium brands come with carbon soles
3. Breathability: It should ensure good air circulation and coolness
4. The total weight of the shoe: The lighter the better
5. Durability: It is a must to endure the tough terrain
6. Comfort: Your feet must be at ease while you ride
By.Robert Sheehan
About the Author:
Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of .http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert And
สมัครสมาชิก:
บทความ (Atom)
