New Research Suggests E-Bikes Can Provide Significant Health Benefits BY KYE NORDFELT
SWUPHD Health Promotion Director
he COVID-19 pandemic has created the biggest surge in bicycle sales in decades, as cooped-up people wary of gyms and public transportation have taken up peddling. But what if you want to work the heart without burning your lungs, or are you daunted by hills and distance? An electric, or e-bike might be what you’re looking for. E-bikes have a small electric motor that engages when you pedal to give you a boost, which is especially helpful on inclines. A recent study found that a rider’s “average heart rate on an e-bike was 94 percent of the average heart rate on a traditional bike.”
E-bikes are a fun form of exercise that are becoming increasingly affordable. My parents retired and moved to St George a couple years ago. Both were educators in public schools and physically active all their lives. My dad coached sports and mom has always enjoyed the outdoors. Retirement found them being less physically active and they both experienced health challenges including chronic pain and joint replacement. Running was out, going to a gym or riding a pedal bike was not appealing, and walking became mundane. Exercise
HEALTH MAGAZINE | FALL 2020
