9 Health Benefits of Cycling

If you are one of those who prefer to do something more interesting than running, cycling may be a good sport to consider. Those who are serious about cycling swear by the amount of good the sport has done for and to them.

But besides the adrenaline rush that comes from the ability to go really fast on a bicycle, what are the various health benefits that come with it? Taking into consideration that you probably only need a few hours a week pedaling away to attain them.

1. Your heart gets stronger

As with any exercise, bicycling requires loads of stamina, which also means a set of stronger lungs and a stronger hear. Doing regular rides can help to strengthen your heart muscles and make you feel healthier and better about yourself.

2. Increased muscle strength and flexibility

You are also doing some form of cardio when you ride your bicycle. If you notice, there are a lot of maneuvering required to maintain balance and your core may even be worked while doing so. Every part of your body is being exercised when you are vigorously pedaling away, which makes for a great workout.

3. Improved joint mobility

This is obvious. When you ride a bicycle, you are constantly moving all your limbs at almost the same time, especially your legs. You may actually have better joint movement after riding for a while and maybe even get rid of the pain in that knee.

4. Decreased stress levels

Similar to other forms of exercise, going for a ride can take away the stress of the day. A good 5km can ensure that you will have sweated out all the pressures of the work day by the time you get home, especially after a good shower.

5. Better posture and coordination

Your coordination will definitely improve because of the constant movement of all your limbs and senses while you are on a route. However, having better posture is dependent on the type of bicycle you ride. If yours is a mountain bike or one of those racing kinds, your back may be compromised.

6. Bones become stronger

As with your joints, your bones will also get stronger from all the pedaling and movement.

7. Body fat will dip

Those of you who are looking for an adrenaline-filled exercise to lose weight, perhaps cycling may be the one for you.

8. Diseases can be prevented or managed

When your body is strong, your immune system is also kept strong, keeping diseases and illnesses at bay.

9. Reduced anxiety and depression

Like how riding a few kilometres can help to reduce stress, it can also dip your anxiety and depression levels to an all-time low. This is definitely beneficial for our mental and emotional health in the long run.