Health Benefits of Riding a Bicycle...

Regular activity is vital for good health but it’s a fact that most of us in Michigan don’t get enough. Cycling can be a fun way to build more exercise into your day. It offers a healthy, flexible, inexpensive and environmentally friendly way to travel for people of all ages.

Regular cycling can improve your health. It can:

• provide an excellent workout for the heart;
• almost halve the risk of a heart attack, by helping to reduce risk factors like obesity, high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure;
• improve mental wellbeing, by helping us to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, promoting self-esteem and reducing stress or insomnia;
• build strength, especially in your back and legs;
• promote the mobility of hip and knee joints.

 Just a total of 30 minutes most days of the week could make a real difference to your health. You don’t have to do the 30 minutes all at once. You could do two 15 minute rides or three 10 minute rides.

By cycling to work, or cycling during work, you can be active without using up your free time. Cycling can be a great way to spend a weekend morning or afternoon... There are a number of parks to ride in for the casual rider to enjoy, also.

Health Hazards You Can Avoid...

With preparation and common sense, you can avoid most - if not all - the potential health hazards of cycling. Be aware of these issues:

• Safety awareness - always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. Keep your bicycle in good repair. Make sure you are familiar with the road rules and follow them.
• Dehydration - the human body is mostly made up of water. Dehydration is serious and can be fatal. Avoid strenuous cycling on hot days, take plenty of liquids with you, and stop for frequent rest and drink breaks if you are doing a long ride.
• Muscle injuries - muscles and tendons are more susceptible to injury when they are cold. Always warm up with a series of gentle stretches. When you first start riding, take it easy and aim for a slow and steady increase in heart rate.
• Sunburn - don’t forget to regularly reapply your sunscreen. Even waterproof varieties can be washed off with constant sweating.

• Cycling is healthy and fun and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels.
• The muscles most used in cycling are those of the buttocks, thighs and calves.