I enjoy analogies. I like converting abstract concepts into tangible realities. Say you want to lose 10 lbs. What does that really mean? A gallon of milk weights a little over 8 pounds. Pick one up at your local grocer. Imagine losing that over the next two months? Do you think not having to lug that around all day every day would be beneficial? You betcha.

When you exercise you are not just burning calories. You are generating energy which is mostly lost to the environment. But their is a generic energy equivalent in the energy you are generating and it can be expressed in the tangible output of other energy consumers. For cycling I like to think about light bulbs. My average energy generating capabilities when I ride a bike smooth out to about 125 watts. That means I am capable of lighting a 125 light bulb for the entire length of any ride. But only one light bulb. And I am tired after I finish. We take light bulbs for granted, but they consume a lot of energy.

Last fall, on a bike ride through Golden Gate Park I passed a gathering in a glen along JFK Boulevard. A band was playing, about 300 people were lounging on the parched lawn, and 12 cyclists were pedaling off to the left. It was a Pedal Power Concert. Individuals volunteered to provide some of their energy to the benefits of others in a truly communal experience. All of the energy required for the quintet playing on stage was provided by this rotating band of volunteer cyclists. I expect we’ll see more of this in the future.