When it comes to cycling, we relate it with a sustainable approach to transportation or something you rely on when running to the supermarket or next-door laundry to run some errands. But did you know that cycling can be a great alternative to your heavy cardio days? Riding a bicycle is perhaps the best way to get some relaxation and burn your calories. While the debate of whether cycling can completely replace exercise continues, here’s what cycling can do for your health, both physically and mentally.
Aids in weight management
If you think only hitting the gym and getting some dance steps will help reduce your weight, you probably do not know the basic benefits that you enjoy with cycling. Starting slow, one of the biggest benefits of cycling is that you can change the intensity of this exercise depending on your bodily needs. Cycling helps strengthen muscle, improves focus, and helps reduce fat by burning calories and increasing metabolism.
Helps manage blood sugar levels
For diabetes patients, getting some form of exercise every day is often recommended to ensure the blood sugar level does not fluctuate. Experts have observed that cycling for at least 30 minutes can help keep blood sugar levels in check and also help reduce the risks of developing diabetes.
Strengthens your lower body muscle
Your hamstrings, quads, and calves strengthen when you pedal. This also has a positive impact on the upper portion of the body, strengthening the muscles further. Cycling increases heart beat rate, further improving your heart muscle.
Cycling helps with joint pain
This is another benefit that a lot of people are not aware of. For people who have arthritis and joint pain, cycling with low intensity helps strengthen the knee muscles and reduces pain.
Can cycling replace exercise?
While cycling is fun, it is a low-impact exercise that might not fulfil your daily exercise goals and might not burn off enough calories for optimal weight loss and strength. Combine cycling with other forms of exercise for maximum benefit.