Benefits of Cycling
Cycling, the easiest and most efficient means of transport, is also the simplest measure to prevent a large number of old age diseases.
Health experts claim that people who ride a bike regularly actually slow down their ageing process, when compared to those who lead a more sedentary lifestyle.
In addition, the effects of ageing are 50% lower if you cycle at least three times per week.
So, what exactly are the health benefits of cycling?
#1 Protects the heart
This particular physical activity leads to better oxygenation of all organs and muscles. In addition, the heart pumps more blood and oxygen to all the tissues and that's exactly why cycling is always included in the category of medical recovery exercises.
#2 Decreases the risk of asthma
The physical effort also improves respiratory capacity. Doctors claim cycling is a means of preventing respiratory diseases, such as asthma or bronchitis.
#3 Prevents the appearance of varicose veins
Cycling involves pedalling (obviously), and that movement improves the blood flow.
Therefore, people who cycle regularly have a low risk of getting edemas (swelling) and varicose veins.
#4 Reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis
Cycling is also recommended as a method of training tendons, ligaments, and joints.
So, osteoporosis, tendonitis or onset of coxarthrosis (a form of rheumatism located in the hips) fall into the wide range of diseases prevented by cycling.
#5 Improves the intellect
Due to better oxygenation of the brain, intellect is improved. This is due to the production of endorphins, substances the brain releases during physical activity, known as the "hormones of happiness".
#5 Saving the Planet while Staying Healthy
A parking space for a regular car can be used to park 20 bicycles. A bike is built with about 5% of the material and energy used to build a car and, moreover, it does not pollute the environment.
#6 Increased efficiency
A study on 200 different people at the University of Bristol showed that employees who had exercised before going to work or lunch improved their ability to organise their time and tasks, thus becoming more efficient.
#7 You become better at other sports
If you play soccer regularly (like me) and you feel a little bit “rusty”, or your sprints are not fast enough to overcome your opponents, it's time to start cycling, my friend.
#8 Concentration will improve
Writers, musicians, artists, executives and all kinds of people who use their brains during their professional activities prefer to cycle on their way to work because it helps them clear their minds.
A recent study highlighted that just 25 minutes of cycling per day helps develop your creative skills.