Bicycling is a great way to stay active and healthy, and it’s also good for the environment. But did you know that riding a bicycle has a wide range of health benefits beyond just getting your heart pumping? In this article, we’ll explore some of the surprising ways that cycling can benefit your health.
Cycling is great for cardiovascular health.
When you ride a bicycle, you engage in aerobic exercise, which helps strengthen your heart, lungs, and circulatory system. Cycling regularly can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
Cycling can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Cycling is a low-impact exercise that burns calories and helps you build muscle. Regular cycling can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of obesity and related health problems.
Cycling can boost your mood and mental health.
Exercise is a known mood-booster, and cycling is no exception. Riding a bicycle can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve your overall mental health and well-being.
Cycling is a great way to build strength and endurance.
Cycling works your legs, glutes, and core, helping you build strength and endurance over time. This can improve your overall physical fitness and make it easier to perform everyday tasks and activities.
Cycling is a low-impact exercise that’s easy on your joints.
Unlike high-impact exercises like running, cycling is a low-impact exercise that’s easy on your joints. This makes it a great option for people with joint pain or other mobility issues.
Cycling can improve your balance and coordination.
When you ride a bicycle, you have to balance and coordinate your movements, which can improve your overall balance and coordination. This can be especially beneficial for older adults, who may be at risk of falls and other balance-related problems.
Cycling is a fun and social activity that can improve your overall quality of life.
Cycling can be a great way to spend time with friends and family, explore new places, and enjoy the great outdoors. It’s a fun and social activity that can help you stay active and engaged with the world around you.
Conclusion
Cycling is an excellent way to stay active and healthy, and it has a wide range of benefits beyond just physical fitness. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, there are many reasons to hop on a bicycle and start pedaling toward better health. So why not grab a bike and give it a try? Your body (and mind) will thank you!
References:
- Bassett, D. R., Jr., & Pucher, J. (2018). Bicycling and walking in the United States: The Who, what, where, and why. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, 62, 315-324. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trd.2017.01.006
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Physical activity for a healthy weight. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/physical_activity/index.html
- Penedo, F. J., & Dahn, J. R. (2005). Exercise and well-being: A review of mental and physical health benefits associated with physical activity. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 18(2), 189-193. https://doi.org/10.1097/00001504-200503000-00013
- Sofi, F., Capalbo, A., Cesari, F., Abbate, R., & Gensini, G. F. (2008). Physical activity during leisure time and primary prevention of coronary heart disease: An updated meta-analysis of cohort studies. European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation, 15(3), 247-257. https://doi.org/10.1097/HJR.0b013e3282f232ac
- Yung, R. L., & Thakurta, S. G. (2017). Bicycling injury. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441822/
