Cyclists invited to get fit with 15.2-mile ride
If you’re looking for an excuse to purchase a new bike, McMinnville Parks and Recreation wellness specialist Kristie Sanders has one.
It’s the Get Fit Through Biking event which will be held this Saturday, May 10. Cyclists are encouraged to show up at McMinnville Civic Center beginning at 10 a.m. and a 15.2-mile ride will begin at 11 a.m.
The course is the same one used during the annual McMinnville Triathlon. Participants can complete the entire distance, or ride a shorter leisure ride.
Before showing up Saturday, Sanders offers the following tips:
‘ Before beginning any new exercise program, consult a doctor to make sure the exercise is appropriate
‘ Biking is a wonderful family activity, so don’t forget the kids
‘ Helmets are a must have at any age. Life is filled with hazards and biking has its share
‘ Wear sunglasses for sun and bugs
‘ Appropriate clothes, not too tight and not too loose, are a must for biking. Also, wear light or bright colors for better visibility.
‘ Wear shoes that grip the pedals
‘ Check the bike’s pedals, tires, handlebars, seat position and brakes before the ride starts
‘ Review the rules of the road for biking. Stop at all signs and traffic lights. Always ride in the direction of traffic. Be extra careful at intersections and use correct hand signals
‘ Water, water, water. Bring water and take sips, not gulps, when needed.
With the summer months just ahead, it could be the perfect time to pedal into better health or a smaller size in clothes. Biking is a great way to get fit and have fun at the same time for the whole family.
This is the third installment to the Get Fit McMinnville program sponsored by Parks and Recreation. Get Fit Through Walking, and Get Fit Through Running were the first two sessions.
Saturday’s 15.2-mile ride will give bike riders a chance to meet other cyclists and arrange other rides together in the future. All riders must wear helmets and sign a release form. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled.
For more information, contact Sanders at 473-1212.