Pedal your way to fitness and fun.
When you think of exercise, do you think of endless, boring hours spent toiling in the gym or do you think of the wind in your hair and the sights and smells of summer? The truth is, exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Hop on a bicycle to feel the thrill of summer and the benefits of fitness all at once.
Riding a Bike
Chances are, you learned to pedal a bicycle by yourself at a very young age. The first time you felt your parent let go of the back of the seat as you pedaled off into the distance was thrilling and scary all at once. Suddenly, you were self-powered. You had freedom.
Perhaps you biked around the neighborhood playing with your friends. Or perhaps your bicycle served as transportation to and from school. As youngsters, we can’t resist the pull of a bicycle. At some point, you may have abandoned your bicycle for other activities, especially once you got your driver’s license.
Well, it’s time to dust off the old two-wheeler and go for a spin. Your head, heart, and lungs will thank you.
Benefits of Bicycling
Bicycling is a simple form of exercise available to nearly everyone. Once you learn to ride a bike, you really never forgot how. And the best news is that you can do it anytime and anywhere. You don’t need a lot of special equipment—any old bike will do.
The physical benefits of cycling are many. Bicycling…
- Builds cardiovascular fitness and stamina: Cycling strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation by raising the heart rate. Riding as little as 30 minutes every other day meets the American Heart Association’s recommendations for a healthy heart.
- Is low-impact: Cycling is a low-impact activity that does not have the excessive pounding associated with other activities, like running. Cycling increases joint movement and can actually serve to strengthen joints because it builds cartilage rather than breaking it down. Cycling is accessible to individuals who suffer from injuries or arthritis.
- Improves muscle tone: Cycling strengthens leg muscles and improves mobility of hip and knee joints. Regular cycling will result in improved muscle tone in the legs, thighs, rear end, and hips.
- Improves coordination: Cycling involves the whole body and therefore helps improve coordination and gross motor control.
- Burns calories: Steady cycling burns approximately 300 calories per hour. Since it helps build muscle, cycling will also boost your metabolic rate long after you’ve finished your ride.
- Reduces stress: Moderate exercise such as cycling has been shown to reduce stress, which can improve overall health by leading to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
The best perk of all? Cycling is fun. Hop on a bike and explore a new neighborhood. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells, all while burning calories and building fitness.
