President Bush Leads by Example: Mountain Biking Fitness Trend Spreads to Boomers

President George W. Bush has taken up mountain biking as a way to stay fit, and his enthusiasm is spreading to other baby boomers who are looking for low-impact exercise alternatives. At 59 years old, Bush is part of the growing demographic that is seeking ways to maintain their physical health without putting excessive strain on their joints. According to experts, mountain biking is an ideal activity for this age group, providing cardiovascular benefits without the impact of running.

Key Takeaways:

• President Bush has taken up mountain biking as a way to stay fit, riding his 1,600-acre Texas ranch on a $3,000 Trek Fuel mountain bike.
• Bush's fitness level is in the top 1% of men 55 to 59, with a resting heart rate of 47 beats a minute and an average heart rate of 139 beats a minute during the ride.
• Bush burns approximately 1,500 calories during a two-hour ride, weighing 191.6 pounds and having a body fat percentage of 15.79.
• Bush has seen significant benefits from mountain biking, including a reduction in knee problems and the ability to maintain a high level of physical performance.
• Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong and other cycling experts agree that mountain biking is an excellent way to stay fit and healthy, particularly for baby boomers.
• Bush's love of mountain biking is not limited to exercise; he also enjoys the sense of freedom and exhilaration that comes with riding.

Statistics:

• Bush's resting heart rate was 47 beats a minute, compared to the adult male average of 68 beats a minute.
• Bush's heart rate averaged 139 beats a minute during the ride, with a maximum of 177 beats a minute.
• Bush burns approximately 1,500 calories during a two-hour ride.
• Bush estimates that he spends four or five days a week engaged in mountain biking activities.
• According to the University of Pittsburgh Center for Sports Medicine, more than half of the athletes who use Chris Carmichael's online coaching service are 40 or older.

Sources:

• Bush, George W. "I love the outdoors..." (as quoted in the article)
• Fu, Freddie. "Riding a bicycle gives the cardiovascular benefits of running without the impact..." (as quoted in the article)
• Carmichael, Chris. "The president is wise to emphasize his aerobic training: heart disease is the leading killer of American men..." (as quoted in the article)
• Armstrong, Lance. (no direct quote provided in the article)