Cycling is a sport based on bicycles. It is governed by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), a group based in Switzerland. The sport has different divisions, including professional and amateur, for men and women. There are amateur races for every age group, and amateurs can start competing as young as twelve years old. In the World Championships, the amateurs and professionals no longer compete separately. There are also different categories for women’s cycling, such as espoirs under 23 and professionals over 23.
Benefits of cycling for your heart
Cycling is one of the most effective aerobic exercises for your heart. It has a low impact on the body and does not require extensive training, but you should be tested for cardiovascular health before beginning a program. For people over 40, it is especially important to have these tests performed. Not only will cycling benefit your heart, but you will also feel better as a whole. It is also a great way to get active and socialize, so you’ll be better able to spend your time with your family.
Cyclists with excellent cardiorespiratory fitness can cycle for longer and harder than others. This can lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. Cycling is also known to lower your resting pulse and blood fat. Children and adults of all fitness levels can benefit from this type of activity as well.
Benefits of cycling for your mental health
Cycling can improve your mental health in a number of ways. It can reduce your anxiety and help you think more creatively. It helps your brain relax and release good substances like endorphins. Cycling is also a good form of meditation, as it uses physical sensations as a focus. It helps synchronise your circadian rhythm and can reduce stress hormones.
Cycling has been proven to relieve stress and lower depression symptoms. It also promotes a sense of calm because it releases dopamine and serotonin. While cycling is not a cure for depression, it can work alongside treatment for depression. Cycling can also help you enjoy nature. The outdoor atmosphere can help you reduce stress and depressing feelings.
Exercise can also improve your mood. Exercise releases endorphins in the brain, which boosts happiness. It can also improve brain connectivity, which helps manage mental health. Biking also increases your vitamin D intake.
Benefits of cycling for preventing bowel cancer
Physical activity is an effective way to prevent bowel cancer. According to Whittney Thoman, senior exercise physiologist at the MD Anderson Cancer Prevention Center, cycling can decrease the risk of the disease. It is also a low-impact activity that is suitable for most people. It also improves overall health and wellbeing.
Previous studies have shown that cycling can reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer. Researchers at Newcastle and York St John Universities recruited 16 men with bowel cancer risk factors to participate in the study. They then had them cycle indoor bikes for 30 minutes per day, and blood samples were taken before and after the cycling session. This study suggests that cycling regularly could reduce the risk of bowel cancer by up to 40 percent.
Regular cycling can improve lung function. Those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can incorporate cycling into their pulmonary rehabilitation program. Additionally, exercise like cycling improves mental health. It can improve cognitive functioning and reduce anxiety and depression.
