The holiday season is here and we're all about to make New Year resolutions. Here are a few of the many health benefits that are associated with cycling.
Cycling is one of the easiest ways to exercise
You can ride a bicycle almost anywhere, at any time of the year, and without spending a fortune. Many people are put off doing certain sports because of the high level of skill that seems to be required, or perhaps because they can't commit to a team sport due to time pressures. Most of us know how to cycle and once you have learned you don't forget. All you need is a bike, a half-hour here or there, and a bit of confidence.
Cycling builds strength
It is a popular misconception that cycling is a fitness activity that solely involves the legs. Cycling builds strength in an holistic manner, since every single part of the body is involved in cycling.
Cycling increases muscle tone
Cycling gradually improves general muscle function, with little risk of over-exertion or strain. Regular cycling strengthens leg muscles and is great for the mobility of hip and knee joints. You will gradually begin to see improvement in the muscle tone of your legs, thighs, bottom and hips.
Cycling builds stamina
Cycling is a good way to build stamina. It is very effective in doing so, because people enjoy cycling and they wouldn't really notice that they have gone farther than the last time they went cycling.
Cycling improves cardiovascular fitness
Cycling makes the heart pound in a steady manner and helps improve cardiovascular fitness. Studies have shown that cycling to work will increase cardiovascular fitness by 3-7%. Cycling uses the largest muscle group, the legs, and raises the heart rate to benefit stamina and fitness.
Cycling eats up calories
Cycling is a good way to lose weight. Steady cycling burns approximately 300 calories per hour. If you cycle for 30 minutes every day you would burn 5kg of fat per year.
Cycling will also boost your metabolic rate long after you've finished your ride.
Cycling improves heart health
According to the British Medical Association, cycling just 30km a week can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by 50%.
A major study of 10,000 civil servants suggested that those who cycled 30km over the period of a week were half as likely to suffer heart disease as their non-cycling colleagues.
Cycling improves coordination
Cycling is an activity that involves the whole body. Therefore, arm-to-leg, feet-to-hands and body-to-eye coordination are improved.
Cycling reduces stress
Any regular exercise can reduce stress and depression and improve well-being and self-esteem. Cycling outdoors is also a good way to be one with nature and to feel the breath of the Earth. It takes your mind off the stress of everyday-life.
Coach JJ is a sports scientist and lecturer on cycling biomechanics at Thammasat University.
He can be reached via his Facebook page (facebook.com/jj.koolstof) or via email(jjcyclingpa@gmail.com).
