RM, a member of the global boy band BTS, is known for enjoying cycling. Not only celebrities but many people in our country, including in Seoul, where public bikes are frequently taken, ride bicycles. If you have no plans this weekend, why not try riding a public bike? Bicycling produces no carbon emissions, protecting the environment while also being beneficial for exercise. Let’s uncover what changes can occur in our bodies by cycling and discover ten reasons to ride a bicycle.
Physical Fitness Enhancement
Cycling is a typical aerobic exercise. It is beneficial because it can be adapted to any desired workout. According to one study, people who cycle regularly or incorporate it into other exercises are healthier than those who do different exercises. About 90% of people who commute by bicycle meet the physical activity guidelines of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Improve Your Mental Health
Exercises like cycling have been linked to improved mental health. A 2019 study highlighted not only improvements in certain cognitive activities but also the connection between these activities. Regular physical activities like cycling can improve cognitive functions and reduce anxiety and depression.
Improving Cardiovascular Health
Cycling also promotes heart health. According to a 2017 study, people who commute by bicycle reap various health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function. The risk of developing cardiovascular disease was 46% lower, the risk of dying from it was 52% lower, and the risk of cancer also decreased.
Preventing High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure causes damage to blood vessels, leading to complications such as angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, and cerebral hemorrhage. Experts say physical activities like cycling can reduce the risk of developing hypertension. A 2017 study showed that cycling is effective in lowering blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes.
Improving Lung Health
Riding a bicycle for 170 to 250 minutes a week significantly improves lung health. Physical activities like cycling are crucial in maintaining healthy lungs, whether one has pulmonary disease or not. A 2020 study revealed that physical activity boosts the immune system, helping protect the body from respiratory diseases like COVID-19 or SARS.
Low Entry Barrier
If you plan to exercise, try cycling, which is relatively easy to start. Cycling requires no special skills and allows mobility, making it accessible to beginners. It can be used as a means of commuting and can be enjoyed as a hobby with friends, family, and partners.
Improvement in Body Balance and Alignment
Another benefit of cycling is improving body balance and alignment. It stimulates motor areas of the central nervous system and activates the cerebral cortex, aiding in motor learning and improving body balance. Experts recommend cycling as an effective rehabilitation program for those who find walking uncomfortable.
Eco-friendly Transportation
Bicycles take up very little space and are relatively cheap, making them a popular mode of transportation for modern people. TheyThey’reo environmentally friendly. Bicycles are the most sustainable and least harmful to the environment in urban transit. If you want an exercise that is environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable, start cycling now.
Weight Management
Cycling is an effective exercise for managing body fat and body mass. Moreover, you can freely adjust the duration and intensity of the workout, allowing you to use cycling for various purposes. A 2021 study showed that you can burn up to 300 calories per hour by cycling at an average speed, depending on the body type. If you increase the intensity of the exercise, you can burn more calories in less time.
Low-Intensity Exercise
Cycling is safe, even for older people or those with weak joints. Orthopedic doctors recommend cycling on flat ground or indoors after total hip or knee joint replacement surgery. Cycling is a low-impact exercise, allowing it to be performed safely by those with injuries or disabilities.
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