This blog has been about more than walking or riding a bicycle although this is important. It’s more about how we move between various spaces as we get to our destinations.
For example, how do we decide which mode of transport to use in which space. Sidewalks and quiet streets or trails for walking to breath cleaner air, enjoy peace and quiet and be safe from aggressive drivers. And quiet streets, bike lanes, paths or other separated from vehicle’s infrastructure for cyclists for many of the same reasons.
A mother rides her electric scooter on the sidewalk to drop off and pick up her child from school. She’s very happy and proud to do so. Her son rides in front of her on the scooter. This is another growing mode of active, non-vehicular transport.
Spaces are an often overlooked aspect of commuting on a bicycle or walking. We want to pick and choose a healthy variety of dynamic spaces to ride or walk through for a better and more aesthetically appealing trip. We feel better and are healthier when we do this.
On Friday I was riding my last commute of the week when two incidents occurred in separate spaces that shed light on the essence of the places. In the first one I was queuing to cross a very busy intersection and a number of us were waiting for a light to turn. A runner left early because it was clear.
A large, loud and older make vehicle came around the corner speeding recklessly and started honking at the runner although she was safely on the other side of the intersection already.
But that wasn’t the end of this appalling road rage incident. The young male driver in his 20s shouted out at both sides of the intersection “f*** all of you guys” angrily and extended his finger to complete the disgusting and despicable obscenity before racing off with a belch of smoke and toxic gases seemingly out of control.
Just a minute or so past this space, I entered quiet and green lakeshore like another world where the roads were quiet and empty and I could hear only the boat motor pulling a slalom skier around the bay. It felt like a peaceful north-woods retreat after being stuck in crazy city traffic for too long.
I’ve talked a bit about eating to ride but now I’m going to include riding to eat. In this regard I especially think about pre-ride and post-ride nutrition.
In the early morning for pre-ride I have yogurt, juice and strong coffee. I fill up my favorite Camelback water bottle before departure.
After rides I may eat heavier especially in the evening with lean-meat kebabs, for example, from our new rotisserie carousel for protein.
I know it may be more efficient in terms of weight loss to eat your heaviest meal at midday if possible. But I find myself too tired and slowing when I need to be faster during the day.
I may have a fruit smoothie with plant-based protein during the day. I try to drink several glasses of water refills throughout the day. Dehydration causes fatigue. Like many can attest, riding a fair amount allows one to eat sweets like ice cream in moderation without gaining significant weight.