Why you should start cycling

And how cycling helps your health!

3 min

©Solskin

By Lisa Gutknecht
March 21, 2022

Why trust us?

With the right equipment, mountain biking, road cycling, and all cycling in between is not only a lot of fun, but also really healthy for both body and mind. Find out in this article why you too should get in the saddle this year and start cycling.

The great thing about cycling: there’s something for everyone. There’s so much variety! You can go mountain biking, bike hiking, or cruising through the city; you can have a good run on a road bike or work up a sweat with spinning. It’s best to try out different types of cycling and discover the one that’s right for you. From a health perspective, you definitely can’t go wrong, as our list below shows.

Cycling helps with weight management

If you want to lower or maintain your weight, you’re on the road to success with cycling. Cycling is a fierce calorie torcher, allowing you to burn between 200 and 600 kcal per hour, depending on your pace and the incline of the road. What’s more, cycling is easy on the joints, as up to 80 percent of your body weight is in the saddle, which puts far less strain on your knees than jogging, for example.

In order to achieve the desired effects with cycling, you should pay attention to your diet at the same time. Training alone is no guarantee for successful weight loss. Click here for our free nutrition plan. A good companion on your way to the desired figure is also our Shape Shake 2.0*.

Cycling can strengthen the heart

Cycling has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, according to studies. Regular, moderate cycling could strengthen your heart muscles and lower your resting heart rate, which can benefit you not only in other sports, but also in everyday life well into old age.

Cycling helps build your muscles

Cycling is not only a real fat burner, but also a good workout for your muscles. It activates the legs in particular, including the often neglected calves, as well as the glutes. Depending on the intensity, speed, and distance, the rest of your body will also get a great workout during your cycling session. For example, your arms are working to keep you supported on the handlebars and your abs are engaged to maintain your form.

Good to know: Supply your body with sufficient nutrients after a bike ride to prevent nasty muscle soreness from keeping you still. Let our Recovery Aminos come to the rescue! They provide important amino acids and quickly available carbohydrates.

Cycling reduces stress

No matter what you’re up to in life, stress always gets in the way. If your body releases too many stress hormones, including cortisol, adrenaline and noradrenaline, over a longer period of time, this can have negative effects on your health. Among other things, your performance and fat metabolism suffer.

That’s why it’s important to avoid or reduce stress wherever you can. And cycling is the perfect sport to lower cortisol levels. Moderate endurance activity in the fresh air not only takes your mind off things, but also releases lots of endorphins and serotonin. It’s no wonder, then, that according to a study by the University of Zurich, cyclists feel healthier, more energetic, and more relaxed.

Cycling expands your horizons

Last but not least, cycling is a great way to explore your surroundings and meet new people. Whether it’s uphill, downhill, or cross country, you’ll find like-minded people in almost every city who will share the adventure with you. Finding a supportive community makes you feel more connected to your environment, too. If that’s not healthy, what is?

Here are more sports that might suit you: 7 cool alternatives to running that keep you fit.

More things to know from foodspring:

*Weight loss with Shape Shake 2.0: Replacing two daily meals with one Shape Shake 2.0 each contributes to weight loss as part of a low-calorie diet. Replacing one meal helps you maintain your weight. The product fulfills the intended purpose only in the context of a low-calorie diet. A low-calorie diet must also include other foods. Be sure to drink enough fluids every day. Ensure a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Sources for this article

We at foodspring use only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial policy to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.