In a number of cities across the United States-many of them metropolises known for crazy drivers and world-class traffic jams-some residents ride to work not only to beat the traffic but also to get an aerobic workout without taking time out to hit the health club.

Despite the fact that many large metropolitan areas seem decisively bike-unfriendly, a surprising number encourage their residents to cycle to work by initiating citywide weeklong Bike to Work programs every spring. These include New York City (www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/dot/html/arndtown/bikework.html), Los Angeles (www.sppsr.ucla.edu/res_ctrs/its/go_la) and San Francisco (www.sfbike.org/events/index.html). While Boston offers no official program of this type, Beantown is home to an unofficial organization called Bike to Work, which has a Web site offering pages of helpful tips regarding traffic, safety, weather, best types of bikes for getting around the city and more (www.biketowork.com).

Cycling to work inevitably raises issues you might not consider when you envision whizzing through the streets with the wind in your hair. For example, how much will you need to freshen up upon arrival at your office? During the hot, humid summer months, chances are it's an absolute must that you rinse off before donning career clothes. If you're not fortunate enough to have shower facilities at work, you can clean up at a nearby health club-assuming you're a member, of course.

Another issue is security. Unfortunately bike theft, a common problem in many big cities, is another consideration that keeps working stiffs commuting by car or train each day. A 1991 Harris poll revealed that of the 46 percent of American adults who had ridden a bike the previous year, about half would consider two-wheel commuting if they had access to bike lanes on streets and highways, showers, lockers and, perhaps most importantly, secure bike storage at the workplace. A protected place for your bike is a necessity; no matter how safe your office building's garage or hallways might seem, you're still better off storing your bike inside your office or locked to a secure object just outside your building, according to the New York City Police Department. Surprisingly, even in New York City, many indoor parking garages can accommodate bicycles.

Of course, if you're cycling in the city, your ride to work may not be able to replace the steady 30 minutes of fat-burning, target-heart-rate-appropriate cardiovascular work you'd get on a stationary bike at the gym. If you're observing traffic rules (and you should be), it's inevitable that your workout will be riddled with interruptions.

Fitness experts believe that nearly any exercise is good exercise, so cycling to work can help you create an active lifestyle-even if every commute doesn't offer the ultimate workout. Taking a spin to your office can boost your energy for the rest of the day. Of course, make sure you start your morning by eating a good breakfast, drinking plenty of fluids during the ride and refueling with a piece of fruit when you sit down at your desk.

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