Cycling for Weight Loss

Cycling is the simplest form of exercise to lose weight. The number of calories burnt depends on the body weight, genetic factors, and the intensity of the ride. Uphill and high intensity cycle riding helps in losing weight and improving the overall health.

The overall motion of this exercise helps burn a lot of calories, as a certain amount of energy is required to move the body and the bicycle, against the resistance of air and gravity. Half an hour of recreational cycling at 5 mph can burn 75 - 155 kcal, while a moderate ride of 10 mph can burn 190 - 415 kcal in 30 minutes. Around 300 - 670 kcal can be burnt, if you perform a vigorous 15 mph cycling for half an hour.

This exercise involves the use of quadriceps, hamstring (large muscles), and the small calf muscles. It makes these muscles strong and well-developed. The body looks leaner, yet stronger. This also helps in raising the resting metabolic rate, which leads to burning of more calories even while resting. The abdominal and back muscles are also strengthened. This improves the body balance and posture.

Since cycling is a non weight-bearing form of exercise, it is very easy on the joints, tendons, and muscles.

Regular bicycle ride improves the cardiovascular fitness, which leads to more energy throughout the day. It helps prevent heart diseases and high blood pressure.

Diseases like diabetes, hormonal imbalance, etc., can be prevented with the help of this exercise.

Stress has become an inevitable part of modern lifestyles. Riding a cycle helps to divert the mind off many trifling problems, which leads to a reduced level of stress.

This exercise offers a wide range of intensities. Very low intensity can also help in burning calories. So, it is the easiest way to start with. You can increase the level of intensity gradually, in a slow and controlled manner.

Apart from the aforementioned health benefits, cycling also provides some social, economical, and environmental benefits. It is a very good social activity, as it can be enjoyed as a group activity with family and friends. An increased sense of vigor and well-being is observed, when this exercise is performed regularly.

It is a relatively inexpensive fat burning exercise. A bicycle costs less than a car, and can significantly save the fuel, as well as, parking cost. As cycling does not emit any carbon dioxide, there is no risk of pollution, which can help reduce the effect of global warming.

This exercise can also be performed indoors. For outdoor activities, various types of bicycles are available such as road racing bikes, mountain bikes, etc., whereas, various exercise bikes are available for indoor activity. Not just cycling, any form of exercise like swimming or brisk walking, when accompanied by a healthy and balanced diet, can help achieve the goal of weight loss.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only. Always consult a physician before starting any physical fitness program in order to reduce the risk of injury.