Athletes train and volunteer at the same time

Members of Portland State University’s Cycling Club were recently named USA Cycling Team of the month.

Why is this “tree blog” news? Several club athletes volunteer with Friends of Trees because it’s a dual opportunity to give back to the community and get in a weekend workout, too, said senior rider Julia Spahle.

“We’re on our bikes all the time—we enjoy being outside,” said Spahle. “It’s nice to give back to the outside and also be on our bikes … it’s a perfect combination.”

Last year, Spahle and some of her teammates made it to a Plant by Bike event, which proved to be a legitimate resistance training test, even for the competitive riders.

“It was very empowering moving everything by bikes,” said the international development major.

Every Friends of Trees planting—bicycle or no bicycle—offers a tremendous opportunity to break a sweat while giving back to your community.

Check out the Friends of Trees volunteer page to find out more, or check out the planting calendar for times and dates—no registration is required, just show up for a doughnut and pick up a shovel.

–Toshio Suzuki