For many people out there, cycling is much more than just a way to go from point A to point B. Besides being a common form of transportation, it is also a source of numerous benefits that encompass physical and mental health, among other things.
In fact, a lot of people see it as a way of life, and if you decide to join the world of cycling, you will quickly experience the following advantages:
It Boosts Mental Health and Brain Power
Cycling is an incredible way to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. Having to focus on the road while riding a bike can help you stay focused on the present moment.
What’s more, outdoor biking actually improves cognitive functioning and overall well-being. So, if you find yourself feeling aimless and lethargic, or if you simply feel like your brain is moving slowly, try to turn to cycling.
Luckily for you, it is an affordable solution to many problems. All you need to do is find the right bike and start riding. Think about the fact that regular exercise improves the release of endorphins in your body, which is a perfect way to lower your stress levels and feel much better almost instantly.
Increased Feeling of Happiness
Cycling can actually make you feel happy. Even if you’re down, to begin with, getting on your bike and riding for a few miles is very likely to lift your spirits. Any kind of mild-to-moderate exercise is known to release the natural feel-good endorphins that can reduce stress and make you feel more relaxed.
On top of that, biking can give you an unparalleled sense of freedom. Whether you enjoy the speed, the liberty of riding aimlessly, or you’re drawn to the ability to navigate through all sorts of landscapes with ease, cycling surely has something for you.
Low-Impact Exercise
Cycling can serve as a great alternative to high-impact workouts like bodyweight HIIT and running since it’s an effective form of exercise that is also gentle on your ligaments and joints.
Therefore, it is ideal for people who are eager to have an intense workout but need to find something that is easy on their skeletal system. If you’re recovering from an injury or you’re simply looking for more low-impact activities, biking might be perfect for you.
Better Cardiovascular Health
Cycling can improve your aerobic capacity, i.e., the ability of your cardiovascular system to provide your working muscles with oxygen and help them use it efficiently. What’s more – you don’t even need to pedal for hours to reap these benefits. As little as 10 minutes a day can make a difference. Alongside the perks we already mentioned, riding a bike can improve your blood pressure and insulin sensitivity.
A Simple Way to Lose Weight
When it comes to weight loss, we all know about this simple equation – the calories we burn must exceed the calories we take in. So, if you’re interested in cycling, you should know it burns between 400 to 1000 calories per hour, depending on your weight and the intensity of the ride. Of course, the weight loss journey also depends on other factors like nutrition and the quality of sleep, but cycling is sure to support the process significantly.
It Builds Muscle
Not only does cycling burn fat, but it also builds muscle, particularly around the quads, glutes, calves, and hamstrings.
Also, the two processes are intertwined since people with a higher muscle percentage burn more calories even when they’re idle.
Cycling Promotes Sustainability
Besides all the personal benefits, if you also choose to commute on a bike, you will have a positive impact on the environment, too. Transportation is among the leading contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, so opting for a bike is a conscious step toward a more sustainable future. Also, commuter bikes help the functioning of urban environments. They take up very little physical space compared to other vehicles, which reduces traffic congestion and simplifies parking.
Cycling is a versatile hobby that is beneficial for your physical health, your mind, and the planet we live on. Riding your bike on a regular basis can help you overcome a variety of negative emotions, feel amazing in your own body, and at the same time, promote much-needed sustainability.