Did you know that someone buys a new bike every two seconds?
There’s no doubt that cycling has always been a popular activity for fitness and for leisure. Since the pandemic started, its popularity has soared even more. In some parts of the world, ridership on bicycle trails has tripled!
Are you ready to jump on the cycling bandwagon? Read on for five terrific health benefits of cycling.
1. Excellent Cardio Workout
Perhaps the best benefits of cycling to work (or for fun) include the cardiovascular benefits. Cycling is a terrific workout that makes your heart pump faster and gain strength over time.
Adults who don’t exercise regularly can improve their cardio fitness by up to 30% by taking up cycling. Adults who are already physically active will increase their stamina and performance by adding cycling to their regimen.
Just how healthy can your heart get? Studies show that cyclists can add an amazing eight years to their life expectancy!
2. Easy on the Joints
Looking for an activity that will make you sweat without a lot of impact on your joints? Skip the running or HIIT classes and dust off your bicycle instead.
If you suffer from knee pain, a gentle cycling workout can give you the exercise you need without aggravating your joints. It’s also a great option for anyone with lower back problems, arthritis, or other conditions that cause pain.
Bonus: Cycling strengthens all the muscles around your knee, which could actually improve your symptoms over time.
3. Improves Cognitive Function
Want to ward off old-age problems like memory loss, muscle wasting, and trouble concentrating? Research shows that regular cycling improves not only your physical health but also your mental function.
One study found that adults over the age of 50 who cycled at least three times performed better on cognitive tests. Specifically, these adults had longer attention spans, better decision-making skills, and above-average reading skills.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Trying to shed a few pounds or maintain a healthy weight? Cycling burns loads of calories — around 300 calories every 30 minutes.
The weight-loss potential is huge, especially if you’re transitioning to a more active lifestyle. Although you won’t be able to target specific areas of your body for weight loss, the calories you’ll burn cycling are sure to trim down your legs and midsection.
5. Build Muscle & Coordination
What about the muscle benefits of cycling? Although it’s technically an aerobic workout (not resistance training), cycling involves every major muscle group in your body.
While your legs power you forward, keeping the bike upright and balanced engages your upper body and core muscles. You’ll also notice an improvement in your hand-eye coordination and your overall balance.
Get Out & Enjoy These Health Benefits of Cycling
As you can see, the benefits of spin cycling and the benefits of stationary cycling are the same as the benefits of cycling outdoors. No matter where you choose to pedal, your physical and mental health will thank you for it!
Now that you know more about the health benefits of cycling, what’s next? Keep browsing our site for more informative reads!