KION - Monterey, Salinas, Santa Cruz - News WeatherBIKING: BENEFICIAL OR HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH.

BIKING: BENEFICIAL OR HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH.

MONTEREY, Calif.,- Our climate is suitable for it and the recreational opportunities are all around us, so it's no surprise biking is a big part of our community. When 57-year old Bob Wheaton took up biking, he had to use the "granny gear."

"This is the lowest gear you can imagine," says Wheaton. 

His doctor suggested he bike to help rehab a knee injury, so the self-professed couch potato started to train. Now, he commutes 20 muiles roundtrip to work on his bicycle and he's noticing some changes.

"I'm wide awake, refreshed and ready to go. It's unbelievable how energized i am during the day," says Wheaton. He has lost 30 pounds, but emergency room physician Ian Greenwald says that commuting to work on your bicycle can be dangerous and riders must always be on the defensive.

"Make sure you're making eye contact with the drivers and make sure you're able to stop at a moment's notice, says Greenwald. 

Like Bob, be as visible as possible. After a close call, he has plenty of lights on his helmet and bike and wears a reflective vest. He says commuting really pays off for him.

"You get out on a day like today when the birds are chirping and the sun is shining and it's just beautiful. It's a nice ride."