| (BPT) – Whether you do it to boost your health and fitness, balance your lifestyle or as an environmental choice, taking up cycling has many benefits. Some ride down rocky trails or up burly hills, some ride for sport and some ride just for fun or to get around. But everyone can take advantage of the-healthy benefits of cycling. |
| The American Diabetes Association is teaming up with Chris Carmichael, national spokesperson for the Tour de Cure and founder and CEO of Carmichael Training Systems (CTS) Inc., and challenging riders of all levels to help stop diabetes by participating in the Association’s nationwide cycling event, Tour de Cure. The Tour de Cure is a series of fundraising cycling events held in 44 states nationwide to benefit the Association. Riders can now do what they love while helping those affected by diabetes. The Tour is a ride, not a race, with routes designed for everyone from the beginner rider to the experienced cyclist. Whether riding 10 miles or 100 miles, participants will travel a route supported from start to finish with rest stops and food to fuel the journey while fans cheer them on. “Many people participate in the Tour de Cure for the camaraderie and cycling challenge,” says Carmichael. “The real reward, though, is knowing that every mile we ride and every dollar we raise brings us closer to stopping diabetes, a disease that affects nearly 26 million Americans.” For those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the ride has special meaning. Called Red Riders during the race, they are recognized with a red jersey during the race and showcase the courage it takes to live every day with this difficult disease. In 2013, nearly 65,000 cyclists in 89 events raised more than $29 million to support the mission of the American Diabetes Association: to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Before you jump on your bike and start pedaling, it’s important to remember to do a bike check every time you ride. Check the tires to make sure they’re properly inflated and squeeze the brake levers to make sure that they apply enough pressure. Make sure the handlebar and seat are set at the right heights and test the chain and gears. Also, examine your helmet for cracks and make sure the straps are adjusted properly. You and your bike can help continue to change the future of diabetes. Sign up today and take the ride of your life in a city near you. To register as an individual rider, a Red Rider, start a team, or learn more, visit www.diabetes.org/tour or call 888 DIABETES. |
