is it safe bicycling this much?

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tucobenedicto

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i want to start riding a bicycle to work. it is 30 miles a day both ways. im pretty fit and don't have any health conditions i was wondering if this is advisable? could this be too much strain on body. this regimen would be 5x a week
 
Doing 30miles 5 days a week can be very strenuous on your body, I would recommend aiming for 2-3 days a week. See how your legs go getting used to it. Once you feel comfortable you can start doing more days. Start small and aim big.

Be sure to carry enough liquids with you and make sure you are on some kind of vitamin and mineral supplement along with a healthy diet to help your body cope. It might also be a good idea to carry some food (such as a mars bar) to give you suger energy incase you get tired.

Like any exercise, you will get tired, so just be prepared for it.

Make sure your bike is set up correctly, speak to your local bike shop as a misfit bike could result in an injury.

I could also recommend investing in bike shorts, gloves. Helmet is essential! Also clip-less peddles and proper bicycle shoes will make a big difference in peddling efficiency.

Last but not least, plan your journey carefully as cycling on the roads can be dangerous, try and stick to bicycle lanes and quiet roads.

From a personal experience, I started cycling to work (10miles each way), I was very unfit at the time but still healthy. At first it was very tiring and my legs were taking strain but after a couple of weeks I got used to it. Now its part of my daily commute and I kill two birds with one stone, exercise and getting to work.
 
Part of this depends on your age. Are you riding recreationally now? If so how far and how do you feel? Start with a pre-planned ride to work and drive the bike back home with you if you can. Try this for a few times including at least two consecutive days. If you feel good after that go ahead and increase to doing a round trip. Your body will let you know what it can handle. Keep it fun and you will be logging the miles. And make sure your bike is in tip-top shape, including an extra tube and pump in case you get a flat. Allow extra time, unless you have a very understanding boss.
 
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