So it’s finally summer, with longer and – fingers crossed – warmer days. Time for school and family holidays. And the best time of year for one of our oldest and most treasured of pastimes: cycling. So what’s the cycling health benefit?
Think about it: no need to layer up for that weekend ride with friends or worry about your lights lasting all the way home. Just fresh air, good company, and the feeling of freedom.
And if cycling rolls back the years and reminds you of your younger days, scientists may have discovered why.
Greatest cycling health benefit revealed in study
Earlier this year researchers at King’s College London published the results of a study that looked at the effects of aging on both body and mind. Testing the muscle strength, lung power and exercise capacity of amateur male and female cyclists aged 55 to 79 showed their key physiological functions to be the same as those of much younger adults.
Most of us are bored of the message that exercise is good for you. But I bet regular cyclists are feeling pretty great right now, knowing that the ultimate cycling health benefit is a younger body.
The good news is, it’s never too late to get back on your bike. But don’t just do it on holiday or in the summer; stick with cycling for the long term, whatever your ability, and it will pay off.
4 tips for enjoying the number 1 cycling health benefit
As with most things in life, switching to a healthier way of living through cycling is simpler than it sounds. Here are a few easy tips to get you going:
- Build cycling into your routine: Adults need at least two and a half hours of moderate exercise a week. Use the bike for local journeys – to work, school, the shops – and you’ll meet this easily.
- Get help to build your confidence: Schemes in London, Manchester, Newcastle and many other places offer free or subsidised practical advice to help you stay safe on your bike. Search online for ‘free cycle training’ and check out these easy tips for safe riding.
- Cycle on weekends: Get to know your area, either on your own or with the family. Discover local parks or arm yourself with a Sustrans map that shows cycle routes where you are.
- Go on social rides: For safety in numbers and the chance to meet new people, search online forums for information on regular local rides. Or join free rides organised by British Cycling – Sky Rides, open to everyone, and Breeze rides, aimed specifically at women.
Need inspiration to get started? There’s nothing better than hopping on the saddle and going for a spin in beautiful surroundings, so check out our wellbeing holidays offering cycling.
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