Whether you are an avid cyclist or someone just looking to get a bit more exercise, cycling can be a fun and exciting way to burn calories and improve your health. In fact, a recent study has found that cycling reduces your risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 50%.
Cycling is an aerobic exercise that stimulates your heart and lungs, and also burns fat from all areas of your body. In fact, the American Council on Exercise has calculated that a 150-pound person cycling at a speed of 5.5 miles per hour will burn around 544 calories. The amount of calories you burn will depend on your weight, fitness level, and how long you ride.
Cycling is a great way to burn calories and build muscle. A recent study found that cycling 20 miles per week reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 50%. Cycling also lowers your risk of getting cancer. A study of older adults found that cycling improved cognitive function, which may be helpful in maintaining a healthy mind and body. In fact, a University of Illinois study found that people who exercised more showed a larger hippocampus, which is part of the brain responsible for memory.
Cycling is an easy and affordable way to get your daily exercise. Studies have shown that people who bicycle to work perform better at their jobs, and they also claim to be more productive during the day. In fact, a study of Americans found that cycling to work reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 5 million tons of carbon dioxide each year.
If you are not accustomed to riding a bicycle, you should start with a short ride of at least 15 minutes. Ride with traffic and make sure you are alert for oncoming vehicles.
When you get comfortable, you can work your way up to a longer ride. You can increase your intensity by riding uphill. You can also get a group together and ride with others. If you don’t have the motivation to ride, a group ride can give you that extra push.
If you have a chronic health condition, you should speak with your health care provider before beginning a new exercise routine. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a physical therapist or rehab specialist. They will be able to help you with any modifications that are needed. Depending on your health condition, you might need to start with a lower-intensity ride.
A recent study found that moderate cycling was associated with a reduction in depression. Similarly, a study in Finland found that people who cycled for at least 30 minutes per day had a 40% lower risk of diabetes.
Cycling also reduces your risk of high blood pressure and stroke. Cycling can also help you burn more calories than other forms of exercise. It is also an effective way to lose weight. If you cycle a lot, your body will burn more fat than if you didn’t.
