Is Cycling A Good Workout?

Most people that workout several times a week don't leave their enjoyment of being active in the gym. They often look for active outlets for after work or on the weekend. Some hike, some run, some go dancing and some ride bikes. Riding a bike can be more than just beneficial for your health. It can be a mode of transportation for short trips that can often be faster if traffic is a problem. Cycling is also a good workout that can keep you in shape, while enjoying the outdoors.

Bike riding is a low impact workout.

Being low impact, it's excellent for people with osteoarthritis, since it is easy on the joints. If you're a senior and afraid of falling, consider adult trikes or recumbent bikes. It can help lower cholesterol levels, improve your cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. It helps boost your digestive system, especially elimination, and can help prevent colon cancer. Riding a bike also reduces the risk of breast cancer and diabetes.

Riding a bike can make it easier to lose weight.

While you might not burn a ton of calories in a casual ride, since it's fun to ride a bike, you'll do it more often and it can burn an extra 400 calories. Intense cycling can burn as many as 1000 calories in an hour. If you choose to use your bike for running errands, all the better. It can be just as fast as driving in some cases. You'll build large lower body muscles, which can also increase your metabolism, since the more muscle tissue you have, the more calories you burn.

Cycling requires stronger core muscles.

Your core muscles are used to keep you balanced and you'll definitely give them a workout to keep the bike upright, especially if you're using a traditional bicycle. Riding a bike can help you keep muscles toned and help prevent falls and potential fractures as you age. While it's a great exercise for those days away from the gym, it's also a good way to start an exercise program. Like walking, it's easy on the body, can be modified to your level of fitness and is relatively easy for most people.

• Your balance often declines as you get older, so if you're just starting out and a senior, consider the options mentioned earlier, an adult trike if you have balance issues. Start slowly and focus on safety first.

• You'll boost your brain power and improve your mental health when you bike. You can reduce stress with every pedal and improve your mood. It can also boost your cognitive abilities and improve circulation.

• When you use a bike for errands or shorter trips, you're helping the environment and saving money, both on fuel and doctor's appointments. Enjoying the outdoors also boosts your health. Cycling keeps both you and the earth healthier.

• Like all exercise, riding a bike can help you sleep better at night. Getting a good night's sleep not only is heart healthy, it's also beneficial for weight loss, keeping the hunger/satiety hormones in balance.

For more information, contact us today at Urban Athlete