Ladies, it is time to roll out your bicycles and hit the road!

The Natchez Bicycle Club is once again hosting its annual women-only cycling event, Belles on Bikes, Saturday.

Women of all levels of fitness and cycling skills are invited to join us as we head out on the Natchez Trace for a day of fun and camaraderie with the added benefit of a little exercise.

Ride distances range from 16 to 57 miles, so you can ride as little or as much as you would like. The ride is fully supported with SAG (Smiles and Groceries) stops along the way to provide food and water to help keep you pedaling.

There will also be a rolling SAG to help you with mechanical difficulties or to provide a lift into town just in case you have had enough cycling for the day.

After completing your ride, you will be treated to a delicious lunch and be included in the drawing for the many wonderful door prizes generously provided by local businesses and individuals.

Registered riders also receive a super goody bag and a special Belles on Bikes gift. All of this is included in the $35 registration fee.

Now let me share with you some of the many reasons you should jump on your bike and get pedaling.

Bicycling is one of the easiest ways to exercise; you can ride anywhere and anytime without spending a fortune.

We are blessed to live in an area with a temperate climate and beautiful county roads with little traffic where we can enjoy the great outdoors.

The health benefits from cycling are amazing.

According to a study conducted by the U. S. Department of Transportation on cycling, regularly riding your bicycle will help build strength, muscle tone and stamina.

It can also vastly improve your cardiovascular fitness, reduce hypertension and cholesterol, improve your mental health, and it is also kind to aging joints.

However, one of the best benefits of all is the tons of calories you will burn while having fun!

For details on Belles on Bikes or to register, you can visit www.natchezbike.org.

If you have any questions or comments, please e-mail us at bellesonbikes@gmail.com.

I hope to see you on the road!

 

Beth Richard is an organizer of Belles on Bikes.