Cycling can be enjoyed by most people, regardless of age or fitness level. It is a low-impact exercise and one of the safest ways to workout with limited risk of over-exertion or muscle and joint strain. You can cycle at a pace that suits you and go as far as you like – to the local shops or around a 10 mile reservoir – and whatever you do, cycling offers a range of health benefits.

Physical health

Cycling is a form of aerobic exercise and if you undertake it regularly you will significantly reduce your risk of serious illnesses such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure.Strength and stamina will improve when you cycle. In particular, your leg strength will increase and you will find movements such as getting up from chairs much more effortless as a result.

You will be in better shape too as cycling is a great way to lose weight and tone muscles. An hour’s cycling burns about 300 calories which can make a big difference to your health over time. For example, a fifteen-minute ride to work five-times a week burns the equivalent of eleven pounds of fat in one year (source: bupa.co.uk).

Mental health

You can enjoy the outdoors and explore the countryside while on your bike, which is sure to lift your mood. The benefits of aerobic exercise – increased heart rate and blood flow, released endorphins, more oxygen travelling around the brain which leads to clarity of thought, and so on – also mean that cycling will reduce your feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety.

You will feel so much better, more confident and able to tackle life with a spring in your step. FitnessCycling increases your fitness levels, providing a good aerobic workout for you and boosting lung capacity and stamina over time. A study by the Department of Transport found that those who did no exercise and started cycling moved from being in the third least fit people in the population to being in the fittest half of the population within only a few months (source: bupa.co.uk).

Other benefits

Cycling is good for people of all fitness abilities as you can ride at a pace of your choice. If you have any health conditions, you should always consult your doctor before taking up cycling. Otherwise, you simply need a bike and a helmet – and you’re off!

Riding a bike is not a form of exercise you need to plan or set time aside for. For example, you could ride to work or to the shops instead of driving. In fact, it can save you time as it is often quicker to cycle somewhere, particularly if you live in a busy town or city centre, as you avoid any traffic delays.

Cycling can also be enjoyed on your own or with friends and family. With so much going it, why not discover the joys of cycling for yourself?

Vanessa Alexander

Esteem Fitness – Corporate Fitness, Nutrition and Well-being Consultancy
Enhancing Personal Health and Corporate Wealth