Ride along iconic BodyBreak duo at this year's Bike for Brain Health
Fitness experts Joanne McLeod and Hal Johnson have paved the way for Canadians 'to keep fit and have fun' for over 35 years—and 2023 is no different.
The spring season has arrived; it’s the perfect time to get up and get moving! Frequent exercise is crucial for your heart, lungs, and muscle health, but did you know your brain needs exercise too?
That’s why BodyBreak duo Hal Johnson and Joanne McLeod are taking part in the Mattamy Homes Bike for Brain Health in support of Baycrest.
"It’s not for a couple of months, but it’s time to get ready and start exercising now… We want you all to come out," Johnson said in an interview with The Weather Network.
Mattamy Homes Bike for Brain Health in support of Baycrest takes place Sunday, June 4. (Baycrest/Provided)
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On Sunday, June 4th, thousands of cyclists will join forces to raise critical funding and awareness in support of Baycrest’s goal of defeating dementia by riding Toronto’s Don Valley Parkway and Gardiner Expressway.
The connection between exercise and our brain health is stronger than we may realize. In fact, Baycrest research shows that just 150 minutes of exercise per week helps delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
(Graphic by The Weather Network)
"Brain health is very important to us," explained McLeod. "There’s things that we can’t control, like family history, but there are things that we can do, and fitness is one of them. That’s why the ride is just a perfect fit."
Canadian fitness legends Joanne McLeod and Hal Johnson from BodyBreak are the Honorary Lead Riders for this year’s Mattamy Homes Bike for Brain Health in support of Baycrest (The Weather Network).
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The Don Valley Parkway and Gardiner Expressway will be closed to commuters for the event. Cyclists can choose to ride 25, 50, or 75-kilometre routes. To be in the best shape possible for the ride, it’s important to get the spring training wheels on now.
"Right now in the spring, maybe you don’t want to get on a bike because it’s chilly. So go for a hike, get those muscle legs strong, and get your abs strong…Get a little bit of seat time when you can," added Johnson.
"Use [the Bike for Brain Health ride] as a motivator, something to look forward to," McLeod continued. "It’s so cool to ride on the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway; what a great opportunity."
Whether on or off the bike, there are many ways to help Bike for Brain Health - click here for more details. And remember to keep fit and have fun; your brain will thank you!
To learn more about the event, watch the video that leads this article.