Here is a way to make yourself stronger, improve your heart health, boost your mood and thinking power, and provide adventure: e-bikes.

That's right, electric bikes, or e-bikes, are pedal bikes fitted with a motor. Adult trikes also can be fitted with a motor. According to a 2019 study from the U.K., e-bikes might provide older adults with more physical and mental benefits than conventional bikes. A group of 100 older adults, ages 50 to 83, participated in the study. Half of the group rode conventional bikes; the other half rode e-bikes. Each participant rode at least three times a week for 30 minutes. The e-bike riders showed similar or greater benefits than the pedal cyclists.

Researchers concluded that the benefits come from physical activity and from engagement with the outdoor environment, such as by riding longer and going more places.

According to National Geographic, most riders use a low pedal assist power setting. Riders are pedaling, but not quite as hard––which helps them cash in on a host of benefits. Studies also show that e-riders have reduced stress, sleep better and are generally happier.

E-bike clubs provide companionship on bike paths and trails. E-bikes are available with a wide range of configurations and price points. You can buy an e- trike, such as the Liberty Trike, for about $2,000.

This small and foldable adult trike holds riders up to 300 pounds and can be used in some public places as a mobility device.

Other bikes and trikes retail from $2,000 to as much as $13,000, although lighter bikes are the more-expensive ones.