This week is national bike week, so why not dust off the bike in your garage or shed and hop on the saddle to help kickstart your healthier summer.
There are many health benefits that are associated with cycling. Let’s look at a few of the major benefits:
Cycling is one of the easiest ways to exercise
You can ride a bicycle almost anywhere, at most times of the year, and without spending a fortune. Many people are put off doing certain sports because of the high level of skill that may be required, or perhaps because they can’t commit to a team sport due to time pressures. All you need is a bike, a half hour here or there when it suits, and a bit of confidence.
Cycling builds strength and muscle tone
Contrary to normal perceptions, cycling is not a fitness activity that solely involves the legs. Cycling builds strength in a holistic manner since every single part of the body is involved in cycling.
Cycling increases muscle tone
Cycling improves general muscle function gradually, with little risk of over exercise or strain. Regular cycling strengthens leg muscles and is great for the mobility of hip and knee joints. You will gradually begin to see an improvement in the muscle tone of your legs, thighs, rear end and hips.
Cycling improves cardio-vascular fitness
Cycling works the heart at a steady rate helping improve cardio-vascular fitness. Studies have shown that cycling to work will increase cardiovascular fitness by 3-7%. Cycling uses the largest muscle groups the legs, raising heart rate to benefit stamina and fitness.
Cycling eats up calories
Cycling is a good way to lose those unwanted pounds. Steady cycling burns approximately 300 calories per hour. If you cycle for 30 minutes every day you would burn 11 pounds of fat in a year. Since it helps build muscle, 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 20 miles 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 20 miles 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 one’s mind out of everyday-life stress and rejuvenates his soul.
For further information on how Espina Chiropractic Clinic can help support your cycling get in touch on 01235 410708 or email info@espina.co.uk.
