Whether you want to boost your fitness or an environmental choice, taking up cycling could be one of the best decisions you ever make!
Photo via Cycling Weekly
Not convinced of the benefits of cycling? Paige N. Jones, an exercise psychologist at Piedmont Atlanta Fitness Center and an avid cyclist shares cycling’s health benefits:
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It’s a two-for-one workout! If you’re on the right type of hill, it’s both an aerobic and strength workout all in one.
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Cycling is joint-friendly. It is a low-impact cardiovascular workout, which makes it friendly on the joints.
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It helps you age well. Riding can help you maintain balance, coordination, core stability, and mental alertness as you age.
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It allows you to cover greater distances. Cycling allows us to go farther and see more of the great outdoors than we would walking or running.
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Cycling is excellent for cross-training. If you’re a runner or weightlifter, cycling can help you work different muscle groups, give your joints a break from high-impact activity and improve your cardiovascular fitness.
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Cycling mixes up your mode of transportation. We tend to drive everywhere, even very short distances. If an area is bike-friendly, it offers residents a great option to enjoy the outdoors, benefit their health, and help the environment.
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It can be a social sport. Meet up with a new friend for a ride instead of getting coffee, or join a cycling group!
But if you’re new to cycling, make sure to familiarise yourself with the safety precautions before hitting the road and watch out for cars!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
