Why bike riding is the best

With the warm weather we’ve been having lately in the Chicago area, I recently got out for my first bike ride of the year. It brought me so much joy and happiness. Sheer bliss. The sun was shining, the air was warm and it was just wonderful. My bike might need a little work, and I might be living in a different place where I have to find new routes, but there’s nothing like getting on my bike and going for a ride.

I love how biking makes me feel. When I’m cycling the road, it’s probably the closest feeling to being a bird (for me, moreso than flying in an airplane). Hiking is my favorite outdoor activity, but biking is a close second, because it’s a quick way to see a lot and get some fresh air.

It’s also a great, low impact physical activity. I’ve never been a runner (though many times I’ve tried, and I’m still trying), but biking has always been second nature to walking for me. It just feels right, and it’s a great way to get some exercise in.

I also have lots of good memories of biking with my family when I was a kid. Sometimes when I bike, those times come back to me and make me smile. My mom would get snacks together and we’d pack up the bikes and go over to a local park and bike by the lake. Or go on an adventure near home. I also biked a lot with my brother and friends, whether it was just around the neighborhood or to 7-11 for Slurpees. Biking has always been a big part of my life.

Will I be able to bike the rest of my life? Who knows. But for now I’m going to continue to enjoy it, because it’s a fun and healthy way to get away from it all, if just for a few minutes.

What’s your favorite outdoor activity? Let me know in the comments below.