Start cycling!
With 2021 about to start, lots of people make up their New Year's resolutions to start living healthy or to lose weight. The most common reason for participants for failing their New Year's resolution is because of unrealistic goals. Don't make the same mistake this time. Start with regularly cycling!
Scientists suggest that 30-60 minutes of steady riding at a good pace is a good balance. Three to five sessions a week is enough to get those benefits flowing.
Look younger, live younger
Scientists have found out that cycling regularly can protect your skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation and reduce the signs of aging. Another study has found out that if you cycle regularly, your body is biological ''nine years younger'' than if you don't.
Besides: cycling reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and obesity. Regular cycling even reduces the risk of heart disease by 50%.
Cycling is a proven sleeping aid
A study by the National Sleep Association in 2013 found that 75% of exercisers were getting a good or very good quality of sleep overall, compared to 56% of non-exercisers. Just a few hours of gentle exercise every week can make a difference. Unlike other high-impact exercises like running, jumping, or fitness, cycling is a relatively gentle workout. It engages your whole body without putting too much strain on bones and joints. Cycling is a low-impact exercise for all ages, so get on that bike!
It's eco-friendly
No one pollutes the environment intentionally. Unfortunately, Europeans preferred mode of transport, by car, is also the most environmentally unfriendly one. When you take the bus, you will already cut emissions per passenger-kilometer by half. Bikes on the other hand produce zero pollution and leave no carbon footprint. Do we need to say more?
It's budget-friendly
Besides the costs of purchasing the bike, some extra bike gear, or essential bike tools, the costs of having a bike are very low. You can save a lot of money on transportation costs. You don't have to worry about skyrocketing petrol prices or buying parking tickets when you park your bike somewhere. The only costs you will have every once and a while are low maintenance costs, like fixing a flat tire or getting your saddle renewed.
It improves your mental health
Cycling pumps blood around your body at a greater rate which allows the rapid spread of endorphins, dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. It reduces your level of stress, it helps to make brand new cells that are responsible for new memory, and improves creative thinking. A better way to start your day is not possible.
“Mental well-being is the most important cycling benefit for me. I rely on cycling and exercise to relieve any anxiety or stress that I may have built up,” - Lizzie Deignan, English professional world champion track and race.
Boosts immune system
On average, cycle commuting employees take one less sick day per year than non-cyclists. As well as being fitter, getting outside on your ride will increase your vitamin D levels with benefits to your immune system, brain, bones, and protection against numerous diseases and illnesses.
It will make you perform better at work
If you’re fitter, healthier, and better off – and cycling will do all that – then you’ll perform well at work and also within your personal life. Research shows that those who exercise regularly outperform colleagues who don’t, which is good for you and good for the company. Cycling reduces your level of stress and makes you feel happy during your precious time at work. A happy and healthy you and a happy boss! Cycling is a fantastic way to start your day!
So, let’s forget 2020 and start with a new fresh year. Stop procrastinating, start cycling!