A low-impact aerobic exercise, cycling has multiple health benefits. It is a great way to improve muscular strength and increase stamina. It is also a good adventure sport for those who love cycling hikes and other such experiences.
Before motor vehicles entered, cycling was the primary mode of conveyance for people. People would cycle for kilometres to reach places, but besides being an eco-friendly means of transportation, cycling is an excellent way to boost body fitness. Here are seven cycling benefits for women and men for you to check out.
Here are 7 cycling benefits for health and wellbeing
1. Reduces the risk of cancer
One of the major cycling benefits for women is the role it plays in preventing breast cancer. The relationship between exercise and cancer has been widely researched. It has been suggested that cycling helps reduce the risk of colon, bowel, and breast cancer. If cancer runs in your family, and you wish to remain free from the risk of cancer, then cycling might be the harmless and sustainable way to ensure you do your bit to prevent it.
2. Helps in weight loss
If you are looking for options to reduce the monotony of your weight loss regime, cycling might be an exciting option. The impact of cycling on weight loss is well-established - it helps raise your metabolic rate, build muscles, and burn body fat rapidly. The constant cyclic movement of legs while peddling also helps boost belly fat reduction, and thus, it is recommended to go cycling for belly fat reduction. Cycling is a pleasurable activity, and being motivated to lose weight makes it more fun and purposeful.
3. Improves cardiovascular health
Cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, high blood pressure, and stroke have become common these days owing to our unhealthy lifestyles and food habits. The diseases once considered a side-effect of ageing are now a threat to the young, middle-aged, and old alike. Cycling improves blood circulation and keeps the heart and lungs healthy. Thus, regular cycling is recommended to strengthen heart muscles, reduce blood fat levels, and lower resting pulse. Furthermore, men are more prone to be affected by cardiovascular diseases. A reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases is one of the key benefits of cycling for men that shouldn’t be overlooked.
4. The benefits of hand cycling
Hand cycling is a lesser-heard but effective form of cycling suitable for those recovering from strokes, spinal injuries, or other conditions. It involves peddling with hands on a recumbent tricycle-like machine. It allows amputees and those with health conditions to get their share of aerobic exercise to keep their fitness intact.
5. Promotes mental wellbeing
Exercise is healing when it comes to mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Cycling is an ideal exercise to give your mind the space to breathe free from the many overwhelming thoughts. This is one of the most important cycling benefits we cannot miss.
6. Improves bone health
Cycling is a great way to improve strength, balance, and coordination. Furthermore, the skill of balancing acquired while cycling helps reduce the risk of unprecedented falls and fractures. It is often recommended to go cycling if you have osteoarthritis, as it doesn’t place much stress on the joints.
7. Reduces the risk of diabetes
Diabetes is a growing health concern these days, and research has shown that cycling for 30 minutes every day reduces the risk of developing diabetes by 40 per cent. Physical activity ensures that the body remains fit and diabetes is kept at bay, and cycling is a fun way to achieve that level of movement.