WORCESTERSHIRE County Council is encouraging people aiming to get fit in 2012 to get on their bikes.

By getting on a bike and cycling at low intensities people of all ages can get a cardio workout without the body feeling strained afterwards.

The body adapts quickly to the moderate exercise that cycling can provide and while cycling at a lower-intensity exercise, people burn a higher percentage of calories as body fat.

The county council’s dedicated website section – worcestershire.gov.uk/cycling – is packed with information for new cyclists or those looking to get back into the habit.

Ed Dursley, Worcestershire County Council's sustainable schemes manager, said: “Regular cycling is a brilliant way of helping regulate your weight and is also a very enjoyable way of travelling around.

“Walking is another great way of becoming more active and has always been popular here in Worcestershire, with cycling becoming increasingly more popular.”