Exercising your body and maintaining your well-being doesn’t have to mean going to the gym or hiring a trainer. Electric bikes (E-bikes) offer an adventurous and fun way to stay active, maintain mobility, and connect with the world around you. E-bikes operate very similarly to standard bikes. However, instead of propelling the E-bike entirely with your legs like a regular bike, you have the help of a small battery and electric motor to move you faster and farther. These bikes are not only a safe and accessible way to cruise around a park, city, or trail – they also steer you towards an active, exciting lifestyle.
Read more: Build a Healthy Diet & Exercise Routine
What Is an E-Bike and How Does It Work?
If you’re thinking an E-bike is like a car that drives you from one point to another, think again! They are leisure bikes that provide a little extra power and a lot more fun. The electric motor gives riders a boost when they pedal, and some E-bikes have a throttle that provides the same support. Their technology and functionality are not complicated, so using one is a no-brainer!
If you haven’t ridden an E-bike before, it’s important to know they are typically heavier than standard bikes thanks to their motors, so start slow when riding for the first time. Each E-bike is a little different, so it’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the gears and brakes to ride safely. Remember that because of the motor, E-bikes won’t give you a workout like a traditional bike. But, E-bikes are a great way to stay active, maintain mobility, and explore with ease.
The Benefits of E-Bikes for Healthy Aging
It’s never too late in life to try new activities and scratch that adventure itch. In fact, riding E-bikes is a leisurely activity with physical, mental, and social benefits that support longevity in a multitude of ways!
Moving Made Easy
E-bikes are the answer to extending how far and long you can ride with less strain. While the battery and motor on an E-bike provide support while you ride, you still use muscles, balance, and strength to propel the bike and perform a moderate workout.
Brain Health Matters, Too
Getting outside and enjoying fresh air works wonders on the brain and mental health. Exercise – including leisure activities – benefits your mental health. In fact, a 2010 study1 found that those who frequently engage in hobbies experience greater life satisfaction and better life engagement. Hobbies can even play a role in helping maintain a positive mood and lower stress levels. E-bikes help you improve your psychological well-being and soak in that much-needed fresh air.
The Secret to Social Satisfaction
Healthy aging and creating a healthy lifestyle can be easier when you include your friends, family, or community. Social engagement and interaction are key to feeling fulfilled. As we age, community connections become especially important for our happiness and sense of purpose. Building friendships in life’s later years can feel overwhelming, but riding E-bikes provides an opportunity to connect with others during a leisure activity – something with proven health benefits. Not sure where to start? Using an E-bike to explore a new neighborhood, head out for coffee, or have a picnic at the park are easy places to start.
Read more: How to Find New Friends After 65
E-Bike Safety Tips: How to Ride with Confidence
An E-bike is a fun way to get outside and get moving. For many people, it may be a more approachable option than traditional biking. However, an E-bike is still a bicycle, and it’s important to keep yourself safe. When using an E-bike, remember to:
- Wear a helmet.
- Sport bright clothing and visibility functions like lights, reflectors, and bright colors to help cars and other bikes see you.
- Follow all standard biking and traffic laws – they apply to E-bikes, too!
- Start riding slowly and use lower motor assist levels so you ease into it. Consider practicing in a low-traffic area to get used to how E-bikes work.
- Choose one that works best for your needs and comfort, as there are a number of e-bike models and types.
Enjoy the Ride!
Health aging doesn’t mean giving up life’s freedoms or foregoing fun. E-bikes are an accessible and safe way to build a balanced, fulfilled lifestyle. Their physical, mental, and social benefits make exercise and transportation more adventurous so you can explore your surroundings, gain leisure exercise, and find joy in the journey!
Looking for ways to get outside, have more fun, and try new things? Join the Healthy Heart Challenge to make your heart health a priority.
