Cycling is so much more than the Tour de France and the Olympics. Though these events showcase the finest talents in the world, competition isn’t the be all and end all of cycling. It can be a simple, low-pressure exercise. A means of transport. An extreme sport. Essentially, it’s whatever you want to make it. But regardless of the type of cycling you’re participating in, any form of cycling has copious health benefits.
Build muscle and endurance
Cycling works so many areas of your body that you will wake up the day after your first cycle aching. Don’t let this put you off, though. Aches will disappear the more regularly you cycle, and you will be growing stronger by the day.
Tone
Cycling isn’t only about working the muscles in your legs. It will also tone your abs and work on your core strength, which is great for slimming.
Forever young
Studies consistently show that individuals who regularly cycle have a fitness level of someone ten years their junior.
Keep your heart ticking over
Cycling greatly strengthens your heart. Cycling twenty miles a week reduces your risk of heart disease by half in comparison to a non-cyclist.
Take it easy
Cycling is much more easy on your joints than running. Just take it slow and easy. Try going for short cycles before jumping into an extreme spin class.
It’s good for the environment
Cycling gets you from A to B without emitting all of the fumes and pollutants that a car will. While you might not want to cycle 50 miles to an important business meeting, try to replace short trips with a cycle.
It will get you to places faster
Ever been taken over by several cyclists when stuck in rush hour traffic? Us too. Almost every single day. Cycling can get you to places twice as fast during rush hours and other heavy traffic.
It’s cheap
A bike has the upfront cost of its purchase and then small installments towards cycle insurance. No MOT. No tax. No licensing, breakdown recovery or drastically expensive repairs. There is also no fuel bill, as it’s powered entirely by you.
The sky is your limit
You can cycle almost anywhere at any time. This means that you’re not bound by strict gym regimes and timetables. Jump on and get pedaling whenever best suits you.
So there you have it. Just a few of the many reasons to incorporate cycling into your exercise regime. Before becoming the next Bradley Wiggins, remember a few things. Your safety is paramount. Invest in a helmet and any other safety wear that you might feel appropriate. This could include knee pads or elbow pads. Make sure that your bike is in good nick before setting out. That means checking for punctures, testing the tyre pressure regularly and testing the breaks. Preferably at a slow speed rather than in a panic as you hurtle down a steep incline. Know your route and if you’re traveling at night, make sure you wear reflective gear and have a good quality light fixed to your handlebars.
