People today tend to lead more sedentary and monotonous lifestyles. Everywhere you go there are bike paths, but not that many people using them. Cycling is a great way to increase your cardio and lead a healthier lifestyle, not to mention a great way to save on gas. It’s not only fun and environmentally friendly, but it also has many benefits for your health!
Great cardio
According to HealthDay, “cycling to work was associated with a 46 percent lower risk of heart disease over a five-year span and a 45 percent lower risk of cancer compared to a sedentary commute”. It means that something as easy as going for a ride can help you strengthen your heart muscles, and fight high cholesterol, which is one of the main causes of cardiovascular disease.
Weightloss
Don’t have time to go to the gym? Actually, there is no need for it. One hour cycling can help you burn up to 500 calories. You will also tone up your muscles, such as your quads and hamstrings. Walking is a great option, but cyclists commute an average of 30 miles per week, meanwhile, walkers commute only 6 miles per week. Instead of driving to the office, take your bike and go for a ride!
Stress reliever
Cycling is not a sport that requires much concentration. You can be listening to music, you can think of your own things or you can even leave your mind blank. Plus, this activity boosts endorphins, the happiness hormone, producing a pleasant and satisfying feeling in our bodies. It’s great for mental health since depression, stress and anxiety can be reduced by regular bike riding.
Strengthens your knees and improves your back position
When cycling, we strengthen the muscles and we don’t put excessive weight or pressure on our knees, which we do in other sports. We also strengthen the muscles of our lower back, improving the resistance of our back and as a result, it can help prevent future injuries. Nevertheless, remember to adjust the saddle height and the handlebars.
What’s the correct way to cycle?
First, you have to purchase a bike that is appropriate for your size and purpose.
Road bike: mainly used on roads and highways
Mountain bike: used for riding on trails and mountain biking
Hybrid bike: If you want something in between
Check the tires, the slimmer tire is better for faster riding and a slicker tread is better for city riding over smooth surfaces. Bicycles come in different heights, so when purchasing one make sure you can easily reach the handlebars and pedals and if everything is within reach, then it’s the right size. According to www.livestrong.com, you should “sit on the saddle and place the ball of your foot on top of the pedal spindle. Rotate the pedal so it is in the lowest position. Your knee should be slightly bent. If it is excessively bent, raise the seat. If your knee is fully extended, lower the seat. The horizontal position of the seat is correct if your knee is directly above the pedal spindle. If your knee is forward of the spindle, adjust the seat back. If it is behind the spindle, adjust the seat forward.” Remember that just like your car needs maintenance, so does your bicycle.
Enjoy your ride and add quality years to your life span!