What is Fitness Cycling ?

Fitness Cycling:

The bicycle has been around since the 1800’s. It has gone tremendous changes in terms of design and details and in the way people are using them. The “bike” as we all call it, had been seen as a primary mode of transportation in many cultures during its early years. Its popularity had gone down during the ascendancy of fuel-powered vehicles such as cars. For some time, its image has been degraded into something that can only be associated with the masses. However, due to the natural functionality of the bike, it is resurging in the modern scene. It is clearly becoming a symbol of environmental consciousness, and of course, it has become one leading icon in the world of fitness.

Fitness cycling is attracting more and more people since it is a low-impact, calorie-burning, resistance-building activity. It is also a good way to clear the mind from stress arising from everyday activities. Cycling is also a good way to spend some quality time with loved ones. According to a recent study by the British, even a very small amount of cycling has an effect on overall fitness. As with other forms of exercises, cycling reduces the risks of having heart disease.

There are many health benefits that are associated with cycling. This article tries to give guidance on how to incorporate fitness cycling into an overall fitness program. But first, we shall discuss the different benefits of cycling to one’s health:

Cycling builds strength:

Contrary to normal perceptions, cycling is not a fitness activity that solely involves the legs. Cycling builds strength in a holistic manner since every single part of the body is involved in cycling.

Cycling builds stamina:

Cycling is a good way to build stamina. It is very effective in doing so, because people enjoy cycling and they wouldn’t really notice that they have gone farther the last time they went cycling.

Cycling improves cardio-vascular fitness:

Cycling makes the heart pound in a steady manner and helps improve cardio-vascular fitness.

Cycling eats up calories:

Cycling is a good way to lose those unwanted pounds. The activity helps people to increase their calorie consumption and to raise their bodies’ metabolic rates.

Cycling improves coordination:

Cycling is an activity that involves the whole body. Therefore, arm-to-leg, feet-to-hands and body-to-eye coordination are improved.

Cycling reduces stress:

Cycling is an activity that promotes well being. Cycling outdoors is also a good way to be one with nature and to feel the breath of the earth. It takes one’s mind out of everyday-life stress and rejuvenates his soul.

When incorporating cycling into an over-all fitness program, there are many aspects to consider. Here are some important things to remember:

1. Consult your doctor

Most people can do cycling. However, it is still best to consult your doctor when thinking about incorporating a cycling activity into an overall fitness program. They shall advise you regarding your limits and capacities and what you should avoid doing.

2. Cycling is a base training activity

Let’s say that the doctor says that there is nothing wrong with you engaging into cycling as a part of your overall fitness program, what do you do next? Remember that cycling should be considered as a base training activity.

 Base training activities are those, which provide endurance and aerobic training at the same time. Re-align your fitness program such that biking becomes the starting activity for the week. Other activities such as circuit training should be done so as to complement the benefits of cycling.

3. Bike three times a week for the first weeks

For beginners, they should employ a program wherein cycling is done three times a week. Doing it two times a week is also fine, but this depends on the capabilities of the person undergoing the training.

4. Increase speeds gradually

Gradual increase in speeds is an important aspect of fitness cycling. Cycling can also be strenuous to the body and the key towards successful fitness cycling is to be patient and not hurry in increasing your limits.

5. Better safe than sorry

Cycling is no joke and it is important to get the right equipments for the activity. Head gear, kneepads, elbow pads should all be in place when cycling.

Fitness cycling can really be integrated into any fitness program. With every turn of the wheel, calories are burnt, strength is built and wellness is achieved.