Ever wondered why we do what we do? Why we get up at dawn on any given day, including Sundays? The reason is simple for many of us: it’s either for running or cycling. It’s like a ritual and a moment for ourselves. If you’re into running or cycling, you’ll connect well with what I’m saying. It’s an addiction—and a good one to have!
I have always been interested in history and like to delve deep into understanding how a particular concept evolved. As I was researching a bit on cycling, I came across the fact that the concept of cycling was invented by Baron Karl von Drais, a prolific German inventor way back in the year 1817. Interestingly, what he invented was not exactly the bicycle which we know and use. He invented the walking machine that helped him walk in the royal gardens faster. This device had wheels but didn’t have any gears, chains, and pedals. Also, it moved ahead by pushing his feet against the ground. With an improvement in this technology, this crude device was eventually transformed into the modern-day bicycle.
Source: Wikipedia
Riding a bicycle is a good aerobic and cardio activity. If cycling is done on a regular basis, it can deliver lots of health benefits.
This simple form of physical exercise helps in bettering your physical and mental health. It is a low impact form of exercise that helps all ages.
Some Benefits of Riding a Bicycle
- Improves cardio health by strengthening heart muscles
- Lowers resting pulse rate
- Reduces blood fat levels
- Tones muscles and increases flexibility
- Uses both upper body muscles such as chest, shoulders, arms, abs and the back as well as leg muscles such as quadriceps (front thighs), hamstrings (rear thighs), glutes, calf muscles and your hip
- Better blood circulation due to flexibility brings about good joint mobility
Having talked of some of the basic health benefits a simple cycling activity can offer, it also acts as a cheap mode of transport and is environmentally friendly.
In today’s time where we are fraught with terrible environment damages and increased carbon footprint due to many vehicles on the roads, cycling is one way we personally can resort to, to be environmentally conscious. It is reported that Cycling 10 km every day can prevent the emission of at least 1.3 tonnes of greenhouses gases annually.
For beginners who want to take up cycling for regular fitness, start slow as we always say for every other athletic sports such as running. On you first day of cycling, you should not ride for more than 20 minutes. Slowly and steadily get used to the cycle as well as the body movements and then increase the intensity as you go along.
Few Things to Follow When You Take Up Cycling
- Safety Measures: Safety is the first and foremost thing to adhere to while taking up cycling either for health, as a regular sport or as a mode of transport. Never ride a cycle in the outdoor without a proper cycling helmet. Helmet prevents a head injury in case of an accident.
- Proper Clothing: It is important to wear well-fitting clothes. Loose clothes may get stuck during cycling and cause serious problems. Especially if you are riding in the outdoors
- Be Hydrated: Always have plenty of water at hand. Drink water frequently to make up for the possible dehydration caused due to physical activity.
- Stretching: Stretching your muscles is important because it warms up the body and prepares it for the intense physical activity of cycling.
Cycling is an interesting way to keep you healthy physically, mentally and environmentally.
We hope this blog inspires you to hop on a bicycle and start pedaling your way to better health! Share your cycling experiences with us in the comments below. For more fitness tips, speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.
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