Best Exercises: Cycling

Here at SQ, we’re all about helping you be the best you can be. That’s why health and fitness is so near and dear to our hearts. Staying healthy and happy has a lot to do with exercise, but there are so many ways to do it! Some are more fun than others, and that’s what we’re focusing on in this article.

Cycling is one extremely fun way to get your exercise in. It allows you to get outside in almost any weather, and it is so versatile. You can bike on the street, in your backyard, and on rough terrain for more exercise. One really benefit of bicycling is that you get your daily dose of vitamin D; just ten minutes outside a day can improve your health! Cycling around town gives you the advantage of getting all that great vitamin D.

Another great thing about bicycling is that you don’t necessarily have to do it for the health benefits. People who never give a moment’s thought to exercising enjoy bicycling, too, like those who are out to be eco-friendly, or just people who enjoy being outdoors. I fall into the latter category. I recently bought a bicycle, and it’s not because I really want to exercise; of course, I’ll love being more toned, but I also just enjoy being outside, saving gas, and reducing my carbon footprint.

If you are out pedaling for the health benefits, you’re in luck, because there are so many! Cycling is considered cardio, and boy, is it good cardio! It improves cardiovascular health and endurance at the same time.

You may think that cycling only tones your legs, but that isn’t true! Your arms, core, and many other muscles are getting a workout when you go biking. The effects aren’t really area specific.

Of course, you only reap these benefits when you’re safe and cycle properly. I’m a strong advocate of sturdy shoes, pads, and helmets! You don’t want to get scraped up. If you’re planning on cycling at night, you also need reflectors or lights. Some bicycles have generators on them to power headlights, which are really helpful and add more protection. For more information on bicycle safety, check out Bicycle Safe and Be Safe.

I hope you fall in love with cycling the way I have! It’s tons of fun and great for your body, too. If you can’t afford a bicycle, or don’t feel comfortable riding on the road, you can always join a spin class. I will say this, though, as a parting remark. My bicycle cost me twenty-five dollars. You can pick up really high-tech models for more money, but most bikes aren’t that expensive and don’t require a lot of skill to ride.

In case you’re wondering, that’s a picture of my own bicycle! It’s an antique men’s bike, and I can’t decide if I want to paint it. What do you think? The peeling blue has a certain charm about it.

I could go on and on, but I’ll stop here! Have fun out there and be safe!