Meet John McBurney, M.D., a Bon Secours neurologist who loves biking to work and leading a healthy lifestyle.
For the first time in history, we are seeing life expectancy starting to decline in many parts of the U.S. This is largely due to increases in obesity, which can lead to many other health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
Moving forward, the answer lies in changes in the way we live our lives. This includes the way we approach self-care, our diet habits and, of course, making sure we lead active lifestyles.
Dr. John’s love for biking started at age 12 when he began taking trips through semi-rural Alabama with his grandfather.
“Although the amount I ride has fluctuated during my life, biking has occupied an increasingly important place in my life,” says Dr. John.
In 2014, when he realized wasn’t using his car very much, he decided to give it to his daughter who needed one. Since then, Dr. John has been living a car-free life. What are the benefits, you may ask?
“First, my commute is the most enjoyable part of my day,” reveals Dr. John. “Over time, I have lost weight and now I weigh the same that I did when I graduated from high school.”
Dr. John admits he has had some health challenges and even health scares over the years. However, he believes his ability to bounce back quickly from those had everything to do with his healthy lifestyle habits.
“As I stand on the edge of old-age, I really don’t feel old at all,” he reveals.
Dr. John’s biking endeavors extend beyond his healthy lifestyle and love for being active.
“I feel an obligation to set an example to others, including my patients and co-workers,” he says. “I also feel a responsibility to advocate for more bike-friendly and walkable cities. Finally, I also feel an obligation to the planet and a heartfelt desire to reduce my negative impact on the biosphere.”
Want to start adding biking into your daily routine? Here are some tips to help get you started:
- Always wear a helmet! And make sure it correctly fits your head.
- Make sure your seat is set at the correct height.
- Take it slow and avoid doing too much riding too soon.
- Remember to take time to stay hydrated and refuel.
