5 Reasons for You to Start Cycling

Whether it be a ride outside or a cycle session on a stationary bike, there are many reasons why hopping on the saddle can benefit your health. From the physical benefits through to the mental health positives, cycling is the gift.

Whether you are an experienced cyclist or thinking about starting, there are great reasons to make cycling a part of your life.

IT’S A LOW IMPACT EXERCISE

The appeal of cycling lies in its ability to provide a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints. This makes cycling an inclusive form of exercise suitable for individuals of varying ages and fitness levels. In contrast to high-impact activities like running, which can place significant strain on joints, particularly the knees, cycling offers a more gentle alternative. For those experiencing discomfort in their knees or hips, cycling may present a viable and beneficial exercise option.

Cycling is a great option for people recovering from injuries, those with arthritis, or anyone looking for a gentle way to stay active. It's low impact, so it doesn't put too much stress on the body, but it still gives a good workout. Exercise is important for overall physical health and can help with weight loss by burning calories.

By using devices like Coospo's heart rate monitor and bike computer, you can make your cycling experience even better. The heart rate monitor keeps track of your heart rate as you exercise, helping you stay in the ideal workout zone. Meanwhile, the bike computer records important details like your speed, distance, time, and route, giving you useful information to analyze and improve your performance. By using both of these devices together, you can get valuable support to enhance your cycling experience.

IT’S GOOD FOR BRAIN HEALTH

Cycling may not be seen as a tough workout, but it actually has great benefits for the brain. It helps improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, which in turn promotes the growth of new brain cells and enhances neuroplasticity.

A recent study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that cycling can improve memory, reasoning, and planning skills. Aerobic activities like cycling can also increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain health and cognitive function. Cycling is not only good for the body but also great for keeping the brain sharp and healthy.

IT’S A MOOD BOOSTER

Stress is widely recognized as a significant risk factor for chronic diseases and illnesses; however, exercise is known to be a potent mood enhancer. Various studies have demonstrated that only 20 minutes of aerobic exercise, such as cycling, can result in individuals feeling more tranquil, with the positive effects lingering for several hours post-exercise. Cycling triggers the release of endorphins in the body, which act as natural mood elevators. Therefore, by engaging in cycling, individuals can benefit from the stress-reducing, anxiety-alleviating, and mood-enhancing effects of endorphins.

Exercise has a huge impact on mental well-being. Going for a short bike ride can improve your mood and reduce stress. Being active, breathing in fresh air, and enjoying the sights along bike paths can really boost your mental state.

IT ALLOWS FOR MORE ADVENTURE

Exploring the great outdoors on foot is a wonderful way to discover new destinations and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings. However, for those who seek a more efficient mode of transportation, walking may seem too leisurely and constrained by distance.

Riding a bike lets you discover new adventures and explore the world in a unique way. It allows you to connect with your surroundings on a deeper level than driving or taking public transportation. Cycling with friends also adds a social aspect to the experience. It's a fun way to move around faster and see more of what's around you.

Many cities are improving their bike lanes to make it easier and safer to ride in urban areas. There are also plenty of scenic trails and paths outside of cities for longer rides. Whether you're biking to work or going on a weekend adventure, cycling gives a feeling of freedom and excitement that you can't get from other forms of transportation.

IT HELPS THE ENVIRONMENT

Cycling is a green and eco-friendly way to get around, especially important in today's world with growing environmental issues. Riding a bike instead of driving reduces your carbon footprint, helps keep the air clean, and decreases traffic congestion. Bicycles don't emit any harmful gases like cars do and are much more efficient to make and look after.

Riding a bike 10 kilometers to work instead of driving can help reduce about 1.5 tons of CO2 emissions per year.

Additionally, riding a bike can help decrease noise pollution and lessen the demand for large parking facilities. You can do your part by switching from four wheels to two, leaving the car behind and biking to where you need to go instead!