At midnight last night, I was not altogether too excited about riding to work @ 6:30am. The past week has been a full one, with time restraints, deadlines and obligations my life ramped up several notches. I’ve felt as though on ’speed’ all week. Fyi, in actuality, i’ve never been on ’speed’. Nonetheless, the thought of dragging myself out earlier than ususal, in the cold, without my mug of piping tetly and oatmeal to go was to say the least an unpleasant one.

Surprisngly, when morning finally came, I got so busy I didn’t have time to think about my thoughts of midnight past. I busted a move and before I knew it I was on my saddle, bag over shoulder, sun beaming on me and a chinook like breeze making my cheeks flush. I pinned my pedals with a pretty fine glow from the inside out. Who new?

This feeling is all too familiar and has occured long before today, when I saddle up to ride the trails, or hit the tarmac for that matter. I just never figured that a simple excursion to work would bring me the same simple pleasures as an adventure in the kelowna hills.

So, give it a go this week. Get on your bike. Ride it to work and enjoy a simple pleasure that will start your day on a high.

Follow some of these tips to keep stress levels low and the commute an enjoyable one:

~Have a pack or pannier dedicated to work only. That way you can leave things in it that are required on both ends regularly.

~Ensure the pack has more room than not. Chances are it may be lighter going or coming but atleast you have the room to add extra ’stuff’ to bring home or that you need to leave at work.

~Leave an extra pair of shoes and change of clothes for a save the day. You may need only one item, or if you were late getting out the door you can save some time by wearing the default change already waiting for you at work.

~Ride in your work clothes. Unless, you are working on a fitness ride to work, it may not be necessary to have a change of clothes. Although maybe not as comfortable, riding in civies is perfectly acceptable. You may want to invest in some clips for the bottom of your pants to keep them from getting caught in the chain.

~Invest in a good lock and use it every time!

~Prepare the night before: pack your bag and all that needs to be in
it, make your lunch, check your bike (particularly tires)and even prep your breakfast. This will ensure your morning stress levels are not triggered.

~Commit to the mind set and the lifestyle change. This is what you will do this week and hopefully more weeks to come. Buy into it and be accountable to ‘you’. You are doing a great service to your well being let alone the environment.

~And finally; spend the money saved on gas on your bike, gear and accessories till you have all that you need. There is nothing better than having all the right ’stuff’ to make your commute a great experience. Our friends at Union Cycle can help with that.

There you go. I would love to hear your bike to work/workout experiences. Share your comments below and thanks for keeping the earth green and your body prime!