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That’s what a rising number of older Northland adults appear to be doing by foot and by bike.

“We definitely are seeing more people biking and walking more once they’ve passed middle age and their kids have left home,” said Brent Hugh, executive director of the Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation. “They tend to spend more time outdoors.

Larry Jones of Cycle City, 9765 N. Cedar, Kansas City, agreed.

“We have many riders who are 50-plus,” he said.

Jones said weight loss, lower blood pressure and peace of mind that comes with just being able to get out and cruise for an hour or two are among the benefits that come with bike riding.

For older adults just getting back on a bike, Hugh said to take it easy in the beginning, even with rides around their neighborhood.

He also said area parks can be a great place to start their journey.

“Many parks have trails that are only a mile or two,” he said, recommending rides at hours where there are few pedestrians to be found.

Jones cited Parkville’s English Landing Park as an example of a good place to start riding.

He also recommended the 14-mile paved trail at Smithville Lake for people wanting to go a little longer.

For the even more adventurous there is the natural bike trail at Stocksdale Park in Liberty.

There are also an increasing number of other opportunities to ride throughout the Northland with more communities becoming bike-friendly.

“All we need is a three feet or so along the shoulder and we’re good,” Jones said.

As for what to ride, Hugh recommends older adults looking to buy a bike go to their local cycle shop.

“They’ll really fit a bike to you and get it working right,” he said.

Jones said two of the more popular choices for older adults are road bikes and hybrids. Some models allow for a more upright riding position and are fully adjustable.

JUST STARTING OUT?

The following are some basic fitness tips from the National Institute on Aging:

- Start slowly, especially if you haven’t been active for a long time
- Always use safety equipment, including a helmet when riding a bike
- Unless your doctor has asked you to limit fluids, be sure to drink plenty of fluids when doing activities

NORTHLAND EVENTS FOR OLDER ADULTS

Self-care for seniors presentation
- When: 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 27
- Where: The Silver Center, 1600 S. Withers Road in Liberty
- Cost: Free
- More information: Call 877-0453 or visit www.tri-countymhs.org
Seminar on avoiding scams and frauds
- When: 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 26
- Where: Wexford Place, 6500 N. Cosby Ave. in Kansas City
- Cost: Free
- More information: Call 877-0453

Senior writer Mark Johnson can be reached at 781-4941 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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