Health Benefits of Cycling
We hear all the time about how great running and walking are for us, but what about cycling? It doesn’t seem to get as much attention, yet it’s still an excellent way to stay in shape and get outside. So, want to know more about cycling and how it helps you? Here are the best kept secrets about cycling.
Health Benefits of Cycling
The benefits of cycling are amazing. It can do things such as:
Increase cardiovascular strength
Improve joint mobility
Strengthen bones
Reduce fat levels
Aid the prevention and
management of diseases
It also helps you save money, as you won’t have to take as many car journeys. So, not only does it get you fit, it saves you money as well. Sounds good to me.
Cycling is also an excellent way to build your fitness levels slowly. It’s easier on your joints, so even if you suffer from mobility problems, cycling can help you get back on track. You’ll soon build up your fitness levels if you cycle every day.
Endless studies have been conducted and found that cycling is such a great way to ward off illnesses. Your chances of suffering a heart attack or stroke are significantly lowered with regular cycling. It also helps with your mental health, as being outside and enjoying exercise considerably reduces the effects of anxiety and depression.
Staying Safe While Cycling
If you are going to be out and about on the roads, it makes sense to take some necessary precautions, as well as to sort out some cycle insurance. Things such as:
Use arm signals when turning left or right
Don’t ride on the pavement unless there is a sign saying you can
Obey traffic lights and signs
Never ride with your earphones in
Never use a mobile phone while cycling
Take extra care when overtaking parked cars to ensure you don’t get hit by a door opening unexpectedly
You also need to make sure you have the correct cycling gear. This includes making sure you always wear a helmet that meets the British Standard and fits correctly. It’s probably not the sort of item you want to purchase online as it could be worth the extra to get it fitted properly in-store.
You’ll Also Need to Make Sure You Have the Following if Traveling at Night:
White front light
Red rear light
Red rear reflector
Amber/yellow pedal reflectors
Also, make sure you undertake regular health checks on your bike to make sure it’s still safe and in good working order. Make sure the tires are inflated fully and that there are no issues with any of them. Also, make sure the brakes are fully functioning - you can do this by trying to move the bike forward with the brake on. Finally, make sure the handlebars and saddle are secure and have no excess movement.
You’ll find that cycling is an excellent way to improve every aspect of your health without feeling as though you’ve done a lot. After all, any exercise that doesn’t feel stressful yet still burns calories is what we all want, right?
