2008 Woodie Awards
Cycling puts students in control of their health
Cameron Williams
Issue date: 10/13/05 Section: Feature
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Here are some common concerns about the state of transportation today:
Problem #1: I don't have a bike. A bicycle can be purchased for less than a tank of gas. Many stores sell used bikes, such as Stuff Etc., Goodwill, Salvation Army and Wal-Mart.
Problem # 2: Gas prices are outrageous. Don't buy gas. Gas is priced by a simple economic principle - supply and demand. If you decrease the demand for gas, available supply will increase and the price of fuel will decrease. Europe has already figured this out as well as Japan and China. The U.S. seems to be the only nation that is too lazy to ride instead of drive.
Problem #3: I am scared of cars. Do a little homework and find a suitable route. The Cedar Valley Nature Trail stretches from Waterloo to Iowa City and goes directly to the Kirkwood Community College main campus from both directions.
Problem #4: Pollution, smog and carbon monoxide are killing me. Yes they are. If half the cars could be eliminated from the road, the air would be much cleaner.
Problem #5: I will be all sweaty. Good! Sweating is a way to cleanse your body of toxins and keep your skin healthy and beautiful. Don't want to stink? Pack a change of clothing and a small towel. When you get to school, go to the washroom, wet a small cloth and give yourself a quick sink bath; wipe the danger zones that cause odor, dry off and change clothes. Five minutes and you are on your way.
As an alternative, you are already warmed up with cardio after the ride so now you can go directly into a workout, take your shower afterward and be ready for the day.
A little known fact: Kirkwood has at least a dozen showers with hot water and free soap. Keep your wet towel and riding clothes in a locker until the end of the day.
Problem #6: My butt looks too big. Cycling is one of the best exercises to tone your gluteus maximus (butt) as well as your calf muscles. By riding a bike to school and anywhere else, tone legs and a tone butt will follow.
Problem #7: I am out of shape. Cycling will put you in shape and improve your physique gradually. Unlike weight lifting, cycling is a low impact exercise that is good for joints. Cycling requires less work to move great distances than walking short distances.