If going to the gym and doing the same exercise every day seems too mundane, ditch the routine and go out into the open for some good fresh air. Soumil Kamat lists the benefits of cycling and why you should start pedalling now
If Barrack Obama, Leonardo DiCaprio, Prince Charles, Jennifer Aniston, Jessica Biel can do it, you can do it too. Closer home, Amitabh Bachchan rode a cycle for his upcoming film. When it comes to cycling, age is just a number. One of the most effective workouts, it will boost your overall health and provide you with a sense of freedom. What’s more, it is great fun too. If you don’t know how to ride a bike, you can pedal away on stationary cycles that are a good form of aerobic exercise.
Why should you go cycling?
What makes cycling better than most other cardio exercises is that it is a healthy, low-impact exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from young children to older adults. Regular cycling has many physical and mental health benefits and it is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of health problems.
Fitter body
Crave for a toned upper body and legs? Then, cycling is right up your street. Riding a bike is great for toning and building your muscles, especially in the lower half of the body—your calves, your thighs. For those suffering from joint conditions or injuries to the legs or hips, this is a great low-impact mode of exercise. Cycling is perfect for shedding extra pounds in a jiffy. It raises your metabolic rate which in turn helps you lose weight faster. Combining a healthy diet plan with cycling will give you your much-desired, enviable body.
A healthy you
Cardiovascular health: As cycling is an aerobic activity, your heart, lungs and blood vessels get a good workout thus improving your overall fitness. Regular cycling reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving the functioning of the heart, lungs and circulation.
Muscle strength: Cycling is a non-weight bearing activity. Regular cycling, however leads to improved muscle strength, mobility and coordination. As it is also a low-intensity exercise, it does not tax your joints.
Good immune system: Cycling strengthens the immune system. A better immune system prevents or manages certain type of ailments like arthritis and diabetes. Some studies also suggest that regular cycling reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Mental health
Stress reducer: While cycling is good for the body, it also promotes sound mental health. Regular cycling is a great stress-buster. It has been proven that cardiovascular exercise helps reduce stress but cycling, in particular, will benefit your entire state of mind.
Beats depression: Riding a cycle eases your mind, thus reducing depression. Cycling releases endorphins which makes cyclists happy.
Boosts productivity: Cycling invigorates you thus giving you additional energy throughout the day. With high energy levels, your productivity increases and you can complete all your work with positivity and vigour.
For best results, go for a ride early in the morning when the air is fresh and there are few people on the road. You can also join a nearby cycling club. Get that cycle out and get going!
