This week is bike to work week in many areas of North America. In Vancouver, this week’s wet weather does not immediately inspire one to bike to work but there are still many committed regular bike commuters, as well as new ones, riding to and from work.
In many cities, bike sharing programs are springing up. The most recent is New York City’s CitiBike, which was formally launched by Mayor Bloomberg on Monday. Already it is the largest system in North America with approximately 300 stations, 15,000 enrolled members, and more than 5000 bikes. Plans are to expand the program into Queens, the Upper East and West Sides of Manhattan, and farther into Brooklyn. 
So far Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal are the only Canadian cities with bike sharing programs. Most programs are operated by Alta Bicycle Share, a unique company focused solely on operating large-scale bike share systems. Look for other cities to launch programs soon!
Bike commuting is gaining popularity because of its low cost, convenience, and health benefits. But how you sit on your bicycle seat is important to avoid lower back strain that can hamper your ability to be able to bike for any distance.
Lower back strain can result if your back stays in a rounded position. Try the following short movement exploration to find a comfortable sitting position on your bike:
- Sit on your bicycle seat and be aware of your lower back.
- Roll your pelvis a little backward and notice your lower back rounding.
- Then roll your pelvis a little forward until you sense you are sitting squarely on your sitting bones, with a slight arch in your lower back.
- As you move your pelvis forward notice how your upper body lengthens upward and a bit forward.
- Sitting a bit forward and on top of your sitting bones will free your ribs and spine and enhance the ability of your pelvis to power your legs. It will also release tension in your neck and shoulder area.
- Breathe gently and easily as you cycle.
- Periodically change positions and briefly ‘stand’ while cycling.
In Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement® classes, we explore how to make all actions, including bicycling, easier. Check us out.
