Rockland Bicycling Club Tackles Hills, Stress

The Rockland Bicycling Club was founded in 2002 to promote cycling in Rockland County.

But it promotes more than peddling: it also encourages better heart and mental health. Lila Moreno, President, and Paul Langus, Vice President, explain the benefits.

"Riding is an activity that people can enjoy no matter what their athletic level," Moreno said. "Theoretically you don’t have to be in shape before you bike. Biking helps you get in shape. Couples can enjoy it because it is also an activity that has a wide range of levels. So, no matter what level either spouse is at, you can find common ground and ride together."

"Riding is relaxing and helps to get rid of the stress of our hectic days," Lila continued. "When riding, it’s all about you, the bike, and your surroundings. You feel a sense of accomplishment after a ride. Believe it or not, after a long ride with a couple of nice hills, you even feel energized. It feels great to be outside enjoying the day, the beautiful scenery that we have in this area (that we usually take for granted) and helps release your inner child."

The Rockland Bicycling Club has two regularly scheduled rides. On Monday and Thursday evenings, they meet in the south parking lot of Rockland Lake State Park and ride roughly 12 to 15 miles until it is dark.  All level riders are welcome, from beginners to accomplished cyclists.  

There are also multi-level rides for cyclists that are more serious and include some hill climbing and more mileage. These ongoing Sunday rides take various routes through Rockland and the Hudson Valley. The ride is for faster "A-level" riders, intermediate "B-level" riders and has a modified route for "C-level" riders.

Membership dues a year per family are $25, but there is no charge for individual rides.

So what are you waiting for? As The Rockland Bicycle Club says, "We Ride Rockland!"

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Rockland Bicycling Club, PO Box 175, Nyack, rocklandbike@gmail.com, www.rocklandbike.org