Get a bicycle. You will not regret it if you live- Mark Twain
Cycling is an excellent way to get fit. If you can find some good roads to cycle on, it can be a very enjoyable way to lose a bit of weight and improve your fitness.
These are some of the advantages to cycling.
1. Low Impact on Joints
I began cycling after a knee injury caused by running. Generally speaking cycling creates less of an impact on joints such as the knees. However, it is important to get your bike position set up correctly. Some injuries can be caused by an incorrect saddle height.
2. Speed.
Walking and running are comparatively slow. Cycling enables speeds of upto 70mph (see: lady who got speeding ticket for doing 68 mph). There is a great feeling of freedom when you are flying down a hill. Because you can easily average 17-18mph it is also possible to see and explore more of the countryside.
3. Fairly Cheap
True, you can spend several thousands of pounds on a bike. But, you can also get a very good bike for less than £400 ($800). Once you have bought the bike, running costs are fairly low and a well cared for bike can last many years. It is certainly cheaper than joining the local gym
4. Good aerobic Exercise.
A moderately fit person could probably cycle for 3 hours without too much strain. But, it wouldn’t be possible to run for 3 hours. Cycling can be done at a lower intensity which enables fat burning without overstretching your heart. It is great exercise for the very unfit person, looking to get involved and start losing weight.
5. Social Activity.
If you find a good cycling club, you can get fit whilst also socialising with other cyclists. It is more fun cycling with other people, because you also get the chance to ‘draft’ behind other cyclists saving yourself riding into the wind. Just make sure you can find roads where cars won’t get annoyed for driving 2 abrest.
6. Save Time
Not only can you get fit through cycling, but, you can combine it with other activities such as commuting and shopping. Cycling to work is often the highlight of the day for me. It gets me fit, saves time and saves money. (and no you don’t have to ride to work in lycra)
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