Cycling is a very enjoyable exercise which makes a person relaxed and happy. It is a low impact aerobic exercise which anybody belonging to any age group can do. Cycling does not cost you a bomb and is also a great way to contribute to environmental conservation as it is a sustainable activity.
Every year, World Bicycle Day is observed on the 3rd of June raise awareness about the immense benefits of cycling and to encourage more people to ride a bicycle.
While cycling all the way to your school, college or workplace can be a great choice for those staying closer to their educational institutions and workplaces, those who are unable to do this, can ride a bicycle to the local market, grocery shop, and railway station or while visiting friends and neighbours. One can also enrol in cycling groups which make a tour of any city especially on weekends.
Cycling is known to boost our heart health, prevent cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and also benefits cancer patients! While the health benefits of cycling are many, this activity also boosts our mental health and helps in combating stress, anxiety and depression. It is a great way to increase our fitness and overall wellbeing.
Why should we ride a bicycle?
Cycling increases fitness
Cycling makes a person lean and fit. Cycling leads to increased muscle strength and flexibility. Cycling is an aerobic activity, which benefits our heart, blood vessels and lungs. Cycling makes us breathe deeper, it makes us sweat and increases our body temperature, all of which contribute in enhancing our overall fitness level.
Cycling makes our legs stronger
Cycling uses all of the major muscle groups as you pedal. It improves our bones and muscles. This practice improves the overall function in the lower portion of our body and strengthens our leg muscles without negatively impacting our joints. Regular cycling benefits our quadriceps, gluteal muscles, hamstrings, and calf muscle.
Cycling helps in weight loss
For people who are struggling to lose weight, cycling can be your best choice! Cycling regularly is a great choice for burning our calories and reduce body fat. Cycling increases our metabolic rate, builds muscle and burns body fat. Regular cycling and following a healthy eating plan can help in fighting obesity and bring a person back to shape. Cycling for at least 30 to 45 minutes a day is recommended for someone trying to lose weight.
Cycling prevents diseases
In today’s time, there are multiple health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle such as obesity, heart diseases, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, metabolic problems, type 2 diabetes and even certain cancers such as colon, breast, and uterine cancers.
Cycling can help to protect you from serious diseases such as stroke, heart attack, some cancers, depression, diabetes, obesity and arthritis. Cycling boosts our heart rate, improves cardiovascular function, and enhances our overall fitness level. Regular cycling can help prevent heart issues such as stroke, heart attack, and high blood pressure. While cycling reduces our risk of cardiovascular diseases, it is also lower chances of diabetes, physical inactivity, and high blood pressure.
Type 2 diabetes is a major public health concern especially in India and lack of physical activity is one of the major reasons behind this. According to a research done in Finland, people who cycled for more than 30 minutes per day had a 40 per cent lower risk of developing diabetes.
People belonging to any age group can ride a bicycle
Cycling can benefit cancer patients
Being physically active while undergoing cancer treatment is highly recommended as it benefits one’s health and fitness and improves their mental wellbeing. Exercises like cycling are suggested for people who are recovering from cancer. However, this is not applicable for cancer patients who experience low energy and pain during treatment. Cycling may reduce risk for certain types of cancer, including breast cancer.
Cycling boosts mental health
Cycling is known to reduce stress, anxiety and depression and boosts our mental health. Cycling releases endorphins also known as ‘feel-good’ hormones. These hormones help to relax our mind and make us feel happier. Cycling is a great way to boost our mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. Cycling on a regular basis also substantially reduces stress.
Conclusion
Bicycles are easily available on rent almost in all Indian cities and towns and the rent is cheap. Hence, for riding a bicycle, you do not necessarily have to buy one. If you are still not riding a bicycle, why don’t you try one today?
