Exercise keeps you fit – not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally. Studies around the world have conclusively proven the benefits of exercising – weight loss, better cardio-vascular fitness, mental well-being and reduced chances of diseases like diabetes and cancer. Of the numerous options available, cycling, as a form of exercise has some unique aspects:
1.Cycling is a low impact exercise. Although it uses all the larger muscle groups, cycling does not involve pounding your feet on the ground and having to absorb that impact like in running or playing field or racquet sports. Therefore, chances of overuse or injury to joints are much lesser in cycling. It is also a great cross-training activity for running and other impact sports. When you are cycling, the weight of the body is taken by the pelvis whereas in most other sports the weight is borne by your legs which make the other forms demanding on your joints and bones.
2.Cycling can be done at any level of intensity. You can easily vary the cycling effort according to your capacity.
3.Cycling enhances cardiovascular fitness and strengthens major muscle groups in the lower body.
4.Cycling takes you outdoors, so it brings the calming benefits of working out in nature – an excellent way to reduce stress. It is also meditative in a way since one has to concentrate for long periods on the route.
5.You can cycle to work or cycle for leisure. As a means of transport, cycling helps you do your bit to reduce traffic congestion and help reduce the carbon footprint due to vehicular pollution.
6.Cycling is a very efficient way to lose weight. An hour of cycling can use approximately 400 – 500 or even more calories depending on the intensity. This is the same as running or gymming with much lesser strain on the body.
7.Cycling is a brilliant all-round exercise that helps in improving strength, balance, coordination, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness.
Reviewed by- Gagan Arora
