Many people who reach their 40′s and liked to run or jog, suddenly find that their knees and joints are not as sympathetic as they used to be. As a result, they are reluctant to pound the pavement like before and search for new ways to exercise.

Not surprisingly, a lot of exercisers turn to gyms and the ever wide array of aerobic machines available. Elliptical machines, stair climbers, recumbent bikes, etc. are all available, including more knee friendly treadmills.

When this happened to me, I immediately missed the out of doors from my former running days. It just was so much more boring when the only landscape change was the next segment on ESPN or the Shopping Channel or whatever else might be on the gym television to entertain us. I knew I had to find away to spend an hour or two outside getting my heart rate up.

I had always loved bicycles, but had never ridden anything more than your basic Schwinn from the 60′s. I happen to live in a college town where there is an active cycling community. But, would cycling in your 50′s make sense?

First, I pulled out my old hybrid bike (one that is half road bike and half trail bike) to get it tuned up at the one of the local bike shops. When I picked it up, I asked if they had any suggestions about cycling for general fitness.

Most people working in bike shops are usually pretty passionate, and are willing to help you get started. In this case, the young man suggested joining a bike club. I was really even certain what a bike club was, but decided, after a few solo runs that it would be much more fun and safe to ride with a group.

I was really uncertain about my ability to immediately join a club of people riding mostly road bikes and being able to keep up. However, what I learned was that there are all kinds of clubs around that cater to various levels of ability. And, the one I joined turned out to offer a variety of levels.

They usually post their rides on-line with time, place and difficulty information. Since “joining” means showing up for a ride, one Saturday I decide to go for a 35 mile ride, not believing I could make that distance. (Usually there are different distance options)

I won’t tell you that it was a cake walk, but I made it! I was hooked because riding with a good club means people actually stay together… which feels much safer on the roads. You also immediately learn a lot of the little tricks and etiquette of riding with a group.

In fact this group turned out to have all ages…it was not just cycling for babyboomers. One gentleman led a ride (people volunteer to “lead” rides, meaning they make sure everyone gets back safe) each year on his birthday. This past spring you had to ride 73 miles in you wanted to go the whole way with him!

Non-cyclists think the distances sound daunting, but you can ride much further than you would imagine. After all, you can rest on the downhills and hopefully have a wind to your back sometimes.

If all else fails, try the first good advice I learned. If you are struggling, get a few inches behind the largest person you can find in the line, and enjoy the almost free ride. Just know, when you get stronger, you are expected to reciprocate. And if you ride much at all, you will get stronger.

By: Athens Scott