FitSugar

Definition: SPD Cleats

FitSugar — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:30:36 -0800

Biking is a gear heavy sport, all the way down to the shoes. And different types of biking have different styles of shoes and cleats when you're riding clipless pedals. The jargon is odd too, I know, but biking becomes more efficient when you wear a biking shoe that clips into a pedal. This way you can power your pedaling during the full circle of a pedal stroke. One type of cleat/pedal combination is SPD, which stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics - Shimano being a manufacturer of bicycle gear. SPD pedals have recessed cleats so you can walk around normally if need be, which is why they are favored by mountain bikers, but many road bikers use them too. When riding in urban areas, SPD cleats work well too, since un-clipping frequently can be necessary with traffic lights. Since the cleat is recessed you actually get traction on the ground, which is handy. However, since the cleat is pretty small, foot pain while biking can be an issue, since you're putting the pressure of your foot repeatedly onto a small surface area.

Stretch It: Shin and Ankle Stretch

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 07:00:20 -0800

After long bike rides, my shins and the tops of my feet are often tight. All that flexing of my ankle and pulling up on the pedals to maximize my stroke takes its toll on this part of my body. Once I slip off my stiff cycling shoes, this is the first stretch I do.

Here's how:

Cross your left ankle over your right with your toes pointed to the right.
Bend your right knee to increase the stretch for the top of the left foot.
Hold for 15 to 30 seconds then straighten the right knee; repeat before switching sides.

This is a great stretch post-run as well. Try it. You'll like it.

Guess Who?

FitSugar — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:00:53 -0800

Can you guess who's riding bikes with her hubby on Malibu Beach?

Hint: Think Pepsi and supermodel.

Which Fall Activity Burns More Calories?

FitSugar — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 04:30:05 -0800

Even though the days are shorter, there are still a lot of ways to burn calories in the crisp Fall air. But do you know which activities burn the most? Take my quiz to find out. All calorie calculations are based on a 130-pound woman.

Take the quiz

Pros and Cons of the Stationary Bike

FitSugar — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 03:47:21 -0700

I love riding my bike outside, but if it's raining or too dark out, the stationary bike is a great option for me. Since it may not be the most popular cardio machine at the gym, there's usually one available. Here are some pros and cons to think about when hopping on one.

Pros

Cons

Since you keep your stationary bike inside, you can always get in a workout no matter the weather or time of day.
You can't beat the safety factor. When biking indoors, you don't have to worry about cars, uneven terrain that could make you fall, or sharp objects that could pop your tire. And if you get tired, you can just hop off and end your workout, unlike when you're riding outside and still have to ride back home.

Riding a stationary bike burns fewer calories than running on a treadmill, since most of your weight is supported by the seat. You'll burn 148 calories on a stationary bike after 30 minutes, and will burn 236 calories on the treadmill for the same amount of time.
Biking doesn't offer the same bone-building benefits as high-impact running since you're sitting down.

To see the rest of the pros and cons, read more.

Pros

Cons

Stationary bikes are much cheaper than treadmills or ellipticals, and cost around $600 to $1,200. If you already own a bike, instead of buying a whole new stationary bike, you can attach it to a cycle trainer and ride it inside.
If you have knee or back pain, or need to lose a lot of weight, using a stationary bike is easier on your body than a treadmill, especially if it's a recumbent bike.
You don't have to wear a helmet, or be hyper-aware of your surroundings.
If you need motivation, you can take a spinning class.
Newer stationary bikes have a variety of programs so you can do interval workouts that replicate outdoor terrain even though you're inside.
The readout keeps track of your workout data including time, speed, distance, and calories burned, so you can monitor your progress.
It's easy to read a book or magazine on the stationary bike, which helps pass the time.

It only works your lower body, unlike machines that have handles, like the elliptical, that allow you to target your arms and upper back as well.
Stationary bikes that have readouts require power, so they're not as green as biking outdoors.
If you're training for a race, you'll be missing out on training in extreme temps, wind resistance, blaring sun, precipitation, and uneven surfaces.
It's easier to cheat on a stationary bike than on a real bike. You can lower the resistance, avoid hills, and peddle slowly.
Since the scene never changes inside, it can be so boring that you exercise for less time.
Sitting down on an uncomfortable seat makes for a sore tush.
The readout on the machine may not be accurate.

Remember, pros and cons aside, spin class is a great way to stay in biking shape during the inclement weather of Winter.

Words That Move You . . .

FitSugar — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:59 -0700

"Who bravely dares must sometimes risk a fall."
-Tobias George Smollett

Need some more motivation? Check out all of my words that move you.

Reasons to Try Mountain Biking

FitSugar — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 03:47:34 -0700

Road biking was my first taste of exercising on wheels. I loved the smooth terrain, how fast I could speed along, and how much distance I could cover, which made for great sightseeing. I never gave much thought to trying mountain biking, until my hubby persuaded me to go with him. I tell you, it's a completely different feeling riding on a woodsy trail than it is riding on the road. Here are some reasons you should give it a try.

It's the perfect time of year - the air is chilly so you won't overheat, there are no bugs, the ground is less muddy, and the foliage is gorgeous. It's a great way to celebrate Fall.
It's a major calorie burner. An hour of mountain biking burns over 500 calories.
You can forget about doing endless squats and lunges because mountain biking will effectively tone your thighs and booty. Since you have to pedal hard up steep hills, you really feel the burn in your lower body.
Once you purchase a mountain bike, cycling shoes, and a helmet, the trails are usually free, so it's a great way to stay fit during a time when we're all pinching pennies. Visit a bike shop and purchase an old model that stores are trying to get rid of, or check out Craigslist if you're on a budget.

To see why else you should start mountain biking read more.

It's a great alternative for people who say that running hurts their knees or back.
Since you're biking through narrow trails, over roots and rocks, dodging tree limbs and holes, you really tune your sense of balance. It also requires more awareness and quick thinking, so boredom just isn't an issue.
It's a great form of exercise you can do with a friend or whole group. Not only is there safety in numbers, but your pals can suggest new places to ride.
It's hardcore. I feel so tough after a ride in the woods because mountain biking is so challenging. I come home with scratches from branches, bruises from falling (since I'm a beginner), and mud on my legs. Aside from strengthening my body, my inner self feels stronger.

Tell me, have you ever tried mountain biking?

Words That Move You . . .

FitSugar — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:00:18 -0700

The shortest film - clocking in at just over a minute - at Lunafest featured a history lesson on women's attire circa 1865, when the bicycle was invented.

"Let me tell you what I think of bicycling . . . I think it has done more to emancipate women than anything else in the world." - Susan B. Anthony

View 3 Photos ›

Find when the Lunafest comes to your town.

Film still from DIY: Emancipation

Biking Basics: Presta Valves vs. Schrader Valves

FitSugar — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 03:47:24 -0700

Bike tires are a complex science unto themselves - I've heard people say, "It's not about the bike; it's about the tires." When it comes to bicycle tires, you need to know about the two kind of valves out there. There is the tall and skinny Presta valve and the Schrader valve, which you probably had on your bike as a kid.

The Presta valve, sometimes referred to as a French valve, is common on most performance road and mountain bikes. This style of valve has built-in valve caps, which you open before pumping air into the tire and which must be tightly closed to prevent air from slowly leaking out of the tire. Presta valves are used in high-performance bikes because they are lightweight and slender, so they don't require a large hole in the rim of the tire, rendering it less stable. Presta valves are easier to pump air through since they don't have a spring like Schrader valves. You cannot use the automated air at a filling station with the Presta valves without an adapter, which you screw on once the cap has been opened.

The Schrader valve is your basic automotive valve and is sturdier. You will find this style used on kids' bikes as well as utility bikes and beach cruisers.

Now Is the Time to Buy a Bike

FitSugar — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 03:30:00 -0700

If you're looking for a new ride, now is the time to buy a bike. Just like car dealers, bicycle shops want to move their stock of 2009 models before the new 2010 bikes arrive. This means nice bikes are priced to sell.

You can find deals at large chain stores like Performance Bicycle, as well as small independent shops, where you can bargain a bit too. I suggest you head to a couple of stores and test ride a number of bicycles to find the feel and fit you want. I also suggest wearing bike shorts and bringing your own helmet for your test rides, and test the bikes on the types of terrain you plan to ride. This often means finding a hill to climb near the bike shop, and the folks at the bike store are often happy to suggest a route.

REI has reduced the price on many of its bikes, and the largest savings to be had are on road bikes. I am liking the carbon fiber Cannondale Synapse. It's designed for women's body structure and has been marked down from $1,999 to $1,599. Head to you local REI and take one for a spin.