Cycling Can Improve Your Health
By Virginia Laird
For millions, exercise can be a thing to dread. There are many reasons why some cannot consider fitness classes, jogging, or other high-impact workouts. However, most can participate in biking as it proves to be easy on the joints and body. Using a bicycle to get your exercise can provide numerous paths to take which keep your ride different with each and every day. Unlike being confined in an exercise class performing the same routine day after day, riding a bike can be a new daily exciting adventure. With that in mind, health and wellness experts suggest that taking up biking can be beneficial to your health. A few reasons you should consider adding it as part of your workout regimen include:
- Cycling promotes weight loss
- Biking can boost the immune system
- Cycling can build endurance
Cycling Promotes Weight Loss
One of the great benefits of choosing to go on a bicycle ride is that this workout has the ability to challenge the body and promote weight loss. Health and wellness experts admit that riding a bike can burn more calories than a lengthy jog while enjoying a hilly (or otherwise challenging) trail. If you are one who is ready to begin losing weight, but not quite ready to hit the road on your two-wheeled fearless leader, it can be wise to begin your riding routine on a stationary bike. These allow for a variety of challenges which can get you on your path to cycling success.
Biking Can Boost the Immune System
Doctors have long suggested that spending time outside, in fresh air, can play a huge role in preventing illness. Research shows that fresh air can provide a boost to the immune system. Making biking part of your daily (or weekly) routine not only offers exercise, but allows your body the ability to more easily fight off illnesses. Finding a time to tackle a variety of trails this time of year can allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature while soaking up the fresh air and sunshine. Both of these components help to boost the immune system.
Cycling Can Build Endurance
Although many believe that endurance is only built through running miles on end or swimming laps, it is not the case. Biking has long provided enough of a cardio workout to strengthen endurance. Health and wellness experts admit that a strong cardio system can improve your heart and build stamina. It is suggested that beginning bike riders take it slow. Jumping off on a journey that is far too long can deter any future rides, as it can cause stiffness throughout the body.
With this advice in hand, now you are ready to begin enjoying exercise from a different point of view. If you don't yet have a bike, no problem. Visit your local gym to get started on a stationary bike while you get your body ready to tackle the challenge an outdoor course or trail can provide.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Baton Rouge, La.
