Why Should You Take Up Cycling?

Maybe you’ve been thinking about taking up cycling and renting a bike to try it out. That’s great! Cycling is a fantastic sport that offers many benefits that we outline below. 

We think once you try cycling and enjoy the advantages, you’ll want to buy your own bike soon. 

Enhances Mental Health 

Many clinical studies find that people who are physically active every day feel about 30% better than those who are sedentary. But, ever feel that ‘high’ after a 60-mile bike ride or 10-mile run?  

Exercise improves your mood by releasing a stream of endorphins and hormones into the bloodstream, making you feel fantastic. And the benefits last for hours after your workout. 

Improves Immune System

Intense physical exercise has substantial benefits for your upper respiratory system – of particular importance during the COVID-19 era. You’re also less likely to get the common cold. 

Some scientists maintain that you can reduce your sick time by up to 40% by biking or running most days of the week. 

Even mild daily exercise can boost your immune system by activating white blood cells and making the body produce vital proteins. 

Builds Muscle

Cycling involves lower-body resistance, so it doesn’t merely burn fat – it also builds muscle! As a result, bikers tend to have well-developed glutes, calves, and quads. 

People who have higher muscle mass usually burn more calories even when they are at rest.

Eat More

Most of us enjoy eating and overindulging from time to time. However, you can add a few snacks to your day when you cycle regularly. 

For example, if you bike 30 minutes to and from work every day, you may burn up to 500 extra calories. 

So you can feel good about having a second helping of breakfast at your desk! 

Enhanced Lung Health 

This might be surprising, but people who cycle may be exposed less to toxic fumes than those who go by car. 

One study in the United Kingdom found that cyclists and pedestrians in central London were exposed to less pollution than drivers. 

Works Out The Core

Biking also gives your abdominals and back a great workout. Keeping your body upright requires you to have a higher level of core strength as the miles pass. 

Having stronger abdominals and back muscles gives support to your spine and enhances stability. 

Better Heart Health 

Cycling is excellent for the cardiovascular system. A recent study spent 60 months studying 1,500 physically active people. Those who engaged in exercise every day were 30% less likely to have high blood pressure. 

Another study suggests that doing a strenuous daily workout can reduce hypertension as much as prescription drugs. 

Lower Cancer Risk

Keeping a healthy weight, daily exercise, and a nutritious diet will reduce your chances of getting various cancers. 

Not only is biking fun, but it can also help you to ward off cancer, which is a big deal. 

Low Impact

Cycling is easier on your body than running, so it’s a good choice for people who want an intense activity without pounding the joints. 

Biking also is perfect for those who have more stiffness and joint problems. 

Boost Self-Esteem

Biking and exercise generally can raise your self-esteem. For example, when you finish a challenging 50-mile ride and beat your previous time by three minutes, it makes you feel good. 

And when you feel good after a workout, you’re highly likely to do it again. 

The many benefits of cycling are apparent, so you’ll be sure to want to keep doing this fantastic sport for years in the future. 

Why Should You Take Up Cycling? was last updated May 1st, 2022 by Alex Sanders