Reasons Why You Should Ride Your Bike

18
Jul
2013

The majority of our followers are already Loving the Bike, but we sometimes get people coming by who are just thinking of getting into cycling.  Claire Dixon is in today to provide a post for everyone who is on the cusp of becoming a bicycle lover like the rest of us.

The Top Reasons You Should Start Riding Your Bike More Often

by Claire Dixon

If you’ve been considering taking your bike out of storage and using it more often, you’re one step closer to starting a new lifestyle that will make you healthier and happier. Getting out with your bike will not only allow you to enjoy the outdoors, it will also work your entire body into a slimmer, more muscular you. Read on to find out more about how riding your bike on a regular basis will benefit you in more ways than you ever imagined.

Feeling Tired Lately? Biking Can Help

Believe it or not, getting out onto your bike at least three days a week will help you fight off fatigue. You don’t need to ride fast or push yourself too hard, either. Instead, you can ride at a leisurely pace and still reap the benefits.

When you ride your bike, your brain releases chemicals, such as dopamine, which work to boost your energy level. Studies have shown that you can decrease your fatigue by as much as 65% while boosting your energy as much as 20%. Exposure to the sun and fresh air also probably has something to do with the energy boost, but getting the heart and blood pumping is also key.

Looking for a Full Body Workout?

GroupCyclingIf you’re looking for an easy and fun way to tone every muscle of your body, cycling is it. Most people already know that biking will dramatically improve the tone of the buns, hips, and all of the leg muscles, including hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves. But what they don’t realise is that biking is also great for the arms, which grow stronger thanks to the need to balance on those handlebars and make turns along busy streets or winding park routes. Your core also helps you to stay balanced as well, so cycling really is a workout that benefits your entire body.

Have Joint Problems? This is the Perfect Workout

Certain exercises, such as aerobic workouts and running, put a lot of strain on your joints. If you suffer from joint pain and you find it difficult to get through other workouts as a result, consider biking, which is a lot kinder to your ankles, knees, and even your spine. To get the perfect form, make sure that your knee only extends to about a 25-degree angle when on the down pedal stroke. This will ensure that you won’t hurt yourself.

Need to Improve Your Heart Health?

Cycling is a great way to get your heart in shape. In fact, if you consistently ride your bike for about 30 minutes at least three days a week, you should notice that your blood pressure and cholesterol levels improve. The longer you stick with this workout, the more rewards you’ll reap.

Before You Head Out, Purchase Some Coverage

To protect yourself and your bike while you ride, have a good insurance policy in place. From standard insurance to more specific racing bike insurance, these plans are meant to protect your assets if you’re ever involved in a crash while you’re out biking, or if your bike is damaged or stolen.
Author Bio:

Claire Dixon is a fitness blogger who really enjoys riding her bike as part of her workout routine. It allows her to get outside into the sunshine and also breathe in some fresh air while taking in the scenery. She loves that it tones her muscles and keeps her heart in shape.

Enjoy Your Ride
Pin It

Comments are closed.

Calendar

    March 2024
    M T W T F S S
     123
    45678910
    11121314151617
    18192021222324
    25262728293031

Archives

Sugar Alternatives for Energy and Hydration

Question: I am using the homebrew sugar formulations (sometimes added to green tea).  I am also trying to wean myself off 1/2 dose adrenalean “lip tonic delivery system” (biorhythm brand- caffeine, hoodia g, synephrine, yohimbe) capsule for energy.

My question is other than juice, can you suggest modifications in lieu of table sugar for energy and hydration.

Answer:

Both raw/organic honey or agave can work great in the homebrew (substitute in the same quantities for the sugar, or to taste), but you do have to shake well in order to make sure they don’t settle out.  Have you tried either of these?  Also, make sure to use at least the minimum amount of salt recommended in the homebrew as the temps rise, you need the sodium replacement if you’re sweating.

Sports Drink Homebrew

Please send us your questions for our Expert Sports Nutritionist, Kelli Jennings to “Ask the Sports Nutritionist“. Kelli Jennings is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for healthy eating, wellness, & sports nutrition. For more information go to www.apexnutritionllc.com.

Nutrition Tips