Biking

Planetizen -  Over the last five years, bicycling grew faster in Chicago than in any other U.S. city, writes Ron Johnson in Momentum. The data comes from the Chicago Department of Transportation and its partnership with Replica, which quantifies biking in the city to understand the impact of its bike infrastructure efforts. According to Johnson, “The study showed a 119% increase in biking between fall 2019 and spring 2023, marking the largest jump among the country’s 10 largest cities.”

NPR - A new study finds that people who bike regularly are significantly less likely to have osteoarthritis or experience knee pain by age 65 compared to people who don’t bike. The study adds to the body of evidence supporting the health benefits of cycling, including strengthening the immune system and helping you live longer. Cycling is low impact and can help build leg muscles around the knee, helping to protect the joint. The rhythmic motion of pedaling can also help lubricate the knee joint by moving synovial fluid — the viscous, egg-white-like liquid in joints that helps reduce friction and absorb shock. There is still a risk of injury with biking, though. Cyclists should understand the risk of overuse injuries as well as the importance of technique and getting a properly fitting bike.