CYCLING is fun, convenient, and relatively accessible. As a mode of transportation, it is far more affordable than cars and good for the environment as well. Importantly, given that more and more people are trying to lead a healthy and active life, cycling is an excellent form of aerobic exercise that offers a variety of health and fitness benefits.
If you’re not yet on two wheels, here are some reasons why you should pick up cycling!
Shed weight in the saddle
Studies have discovered that the body continues to burn calories and fat up to several hours after cycling. Hence, cycling for just 30 minutes might help you burn a higher quantity of total calories for a few hours after you stop cycling. Combined with a healthy diet, cycling can certainly help you achieve your weight goals.
As you get fitter, the benefits are a lot more extensive. One recent study showed that cyclists that incorporated quick intervals of intense sprints into their trip burned three times more body fat compared to those that cycled constantly but at a slower speed.
Sleep better
An early morning ride might tire you out in the short term, but it’ll help you catch some quality sleep at night. A research study from Stanford University School of Medicine reported that people with sleep disorders and cycled for 20-30 minutes every other day were not only able to catch their sleep faster but also, able to sleep longer than they usually did without cycling activity.
Boost your brain power
Preparing for an exam or a big presentation? Then get pedalling. Scientific studies have found that cycling consistently and regularly led to an improvement of up to 15 per cent in mental tests. This is because cycling helps build new brain cells that can improve our memory and brain functions. Additionally, it boosts blood ?ow and oxygen to the brain which further explains how exercise helps with moody situation and memory function.
Enjoy healthy family time
Cycling is an activity that the whole family can do together. The smallest child can clamber into a bike seat or join in on a tandem bike. Studies have found that, unsurprisingly, kids are in?uenced by their parents’ exercise choices. Put simply, if your kids see you riding regularly, they think it’s normal and will want to follow your example. Cycling is easy on the joints too which makes the grandparents join the family fun ride together.
Ready, Get set, Cycle!
Remember, like any activity, it takes time to get used to cycling. The point of contact with the bike are typical areas of discomfort, primarily on the seat. It is recommended to wear padded pants and saddles to reduce discomfort.
Start with 15-20 minutes of cycling and increase speed with distance as time goes by.
If you feel soreness on your arms, shoulders and neck, try not to lock your arms and change hand position on the handlebars frequently. Some cyclists do not like shoes that lock into the pedals. So make sure you are comfortable on the bike and practise removing your foot frequently. Nevertheless, remember all of the benefits of cycling to help you stay motivated.
Watch out for the walkers and runners as you zoom past them and enjoy your ride! – Ministry of Health
The post Cycling – A positive spin appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.