10 Notable Benefits of Cycling

If you’re on the lookout for a dynamic addition to your exercise regimen or a revitalizing twist to your daily commute, consider cycling. This activity opens the door to a wealth of health benefits that ripple through every aspect of your life. From sharpening your mental acuity to championing eco-friendly living, the rewards of cycling are as diverse as they are profound.

10 Notable Benefits of Cycling

For those in search of a sustainable, gentle-on-the-joints method to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, here are ten compelling reasons to make cycling a part of your routine.

1. Helps Strengthen Muscles

Cycling can help strengthen a variety of muscles in your body. You engage your glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, and core when cycling, especially when you stand up out of the saddle. Keeping your core engaged can also take some pressure off your lower body if that’s a concern for you.

2. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Pedaling your way through the streets or trails fortifies your cardiovascular system. This vital benefit can reduce your risk of stroke, heart attack, and hypertension.

If you’re dedicated to cycling, you may start to see the benefits of this lifestyle in the form of a lower resting heart rate, as well as lower blood fat levels.

3. Helps Regulate Blood Pressure

The simple act of cycling holds the remarkable potential to lower blood pressure, a key factor in maintaining cardiovascular health. Engaging in this form of aerobic exercise can be as effective, if not more so, than certain medications prescribed for regulating blood pressure.

4. Aids Mental Health and Increases Brain Power

According to Mayo Clinic, exercise, such as cycling, releases endorphins, which can help you manage and reduce stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Over time, this can boost your mental health and increase cognitive power.

5. Decreases Sedentary Behavior

Having a sedentary lifestyle can put you at severe risk for diseases and other health issues. Adding cycling into your routine can help reduce that risk.

6. Won’t Put Too Much Stress on Your Joints

Cycling is an excellent option if you’re seeking a low-impact form of exercise. Since the body has less impact with the pavement than it does in comparison to running or other cardio activities, your joints will be able to tolerate more activity without strain. This tolerance means you’ll be able to go further and exercise longer.

7. Improves Your Coordination and Balance

Dedicate time to cycling and you may soon notice a positive shift in your coordination and balance, extending beyond the bike path into your daily activities. The act of cycling demands that you maintain an upright position and achieve equilibrium on two wheels, which hones your body’s stabilizing muscles and your brain’s balance mechanisms.

Additionally, as you pedal your way to fitness, the core and back muscles responsible for good posture are engaged and strengthened. This can result in a more aligned and poised stance, even when you’re off the saddle.

8. Helps You Beat the Heat

Cycling won’t put quite the strain on your body that running does, which is important for many people who feel overwhelmed by the summer swelter. But no matter what the weather is, it’s important not to overwork yourself, so make sure you know your limits and stay hydrated.

If it’s still too hot for you, you can always cycle indoors on a stationary bike. By using one at your gym, buying your own, or taking spin classes, you can push yourself during your cardio workouts without overheating outside.

9. Expands Your Horizons

Taking your bike around a new area can be a fun way to learn about your city in a new way. Because cycling is much faster than running, but slower than driving, you’ll be able to appreciate more of the outdoors at a reasonable pace.

Not to mention, you’ll save money on gas, reduce your carbon footprint, and improve your health.

10. Saves Money on Gas and Parking

Investing in a reliable bike lock can be the key to unlocking significant savings on parking fees in bustling city centers and crowded neighborhoods. Consider cycling as your primary mode of transportation to work or to discover your city’s hidden gems.

Not only does this choice promote physical fitness, but it also allows you to pocket the money you would otherwise spend on parking. Moreover, by opting for two wheels instead of four, you’re contributing to a cleaner, greener environment, making a positive impact on the world with every pedal push.

How to Get into a Cycling Routine

If you want to make cycling a part of your routine, get started with these tips:

• Start slow: Don’t commit to 20 miles right off the bat. Take it slow on easy terrain and build up.
• Take safety precautions: Always wear a helmet, follow traffic laws, and learn bike signals for left and right turns and stopping. Always stay alert, especially if you’re sharing the road with cars.
• Get your bike tuned up: If you already have a bike, take it to a professional to make sure it’s in good condition and properly adjusted for your height.
• Don’t put too much pressure on your forearms: Some people grip the handlebars too much and end up with sore forearms. Remember to keep your core engaged.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking to enhance your muscle strength, improve cardiovascular health, or simply enjoy the mental clarity that comes with regular exercise, cycling is a versatile and accessible option.

By starting slow, prioritizing safety, and ensuring your equipment is in top condition, you can seamlessly integrate cycling into your life. So, gear up and pedal your way to a healthier lifestyle.

Looking to continue to build healthy habits and feel your best? Sign up for a complimentary call with an Arootah Health Coach to get started.