Take a look at the many rewards of biking to

Take a look at the many rewards of biking to work

There are two factors of common concern to almost every household: taming the fuel budget and a desire to lose weight or at least get more exercise. Given that this is the case, taking up biking to work, instead of driving or using public transportation, is a no-brainer, so long as you're within a reasonable distance of your workplace. Riding your bike assures that you'll fit that 30 minutes of recommended exercise in each day, without taxing your schedule. It's safe to say that you probably spend a minimum of $60 a month driving to and from work. Put that money in a vacation fund or use it to pay down debt. As for losing weight, or simply getting fit and toning muscles, riding a bike is one of the best ways to accomplish these objectives. Let's take a more detailed look at the many benefits you'll reap from biking to work.

The exercise not only helps you lose weight and tone up muscles, but also benefits your cardiovascular system in so many ways. Getting your heart pumping improves your circulation, helps prevent narrowing of the arteries and helps keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. You'll also find that biking does wonders for your skin and over time, increases your energy and metabolic rate. If you have high blood pressure or joint problems, you'll want to check with your doctor to see if this is a healthy option for you. More than likely, your doctor will OK biking to work, perhaps at a slower pace to start, depending on your overall health condition.

Many people think that biking to work will mean arriving sweaty and unfit for polite company. This problem is easily solved. Leave home wearing a pair of loose fitting shorts, a t-shirt and tennis shoes. Carry a backpack with your work clothing and shoes, along with a hairbrush, deodorant and a pack of alcohol wipes. Slip into the bathroom, clean up and dress. You're good to go! When it's time to go home, change and be on your way.

Saving at least $60 a month is an indirect, but quite real benefit of biking to work. Putting that money into an interest bearing savings account can buy you a nice vacation, pay for holiday gift giving or simply stand in as an emergency fund. If you've got a high APR credit card with a large balance, you might apply that extra $60 to augment your regular monthly payment and watch that principle come down fast.

Biking to work instead of driving or taking public transportation, has become a popular alternative for many people. It's eco-friendly too! No emission issues for you. Fit your bike with a water bottle and a bike lock and you've got inexpensive, healthy transportation that does your body good!