03 Oct Pedal power improves your life cycle

Cycling is one of the best and easiest forms of low-impact aerobic exercise and is growing in popularity. Apart from the undeniable benefits to your body and mind of regular, moderate, aerobic exercise, cycling is ‘green’, it’s sociable and it’s easy; all good reasons to hop on your bike and pedal!

Wondering how to fit more activity into your already jam-packed lifestyle? It’s a lot easier than you think!

A little activity goes a long way

For many desk-bound or otherwise sedentary souls among us any advance on zero activity will help reduce the risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, various cancers and, some evidence suggests, of dementia. The even better news is that those benefits rise exponentially with even small increases in exercise – 30 minutes, five days a week is the recommended minimum. Chances are, if you were to make a habit of cycling even some routine journeys – to work, to the shops, to visit friends – you could easily meet those recommendations; plus you’d probably beat the traffic.

Been on your bike lately?

Great! If you’ve already established a cycling routine that works well keep it up. Retain motivation levels by keeping cycling routes fresh. Take your bike out on weekends and discover new tracks. Bask in beautiful scenery while riding and take a break at cyclist cafes that are popping up all over the place. Make cycling something you look forward to.

Not been on your bike lately?

Give it a go! Discover just how easy it is to fit in some regular activity without disrupting your normal daily routine. Be kind to yourself and start off with small trips first. Don’t jump in and cycle to work everyday, perhaps start with 1 cycle a week and build it from there. If your commute is too long, why not cycling to a train station? Struggle with motivation? Take the kids out for a ride, they will certainly keep you pedaling! If you’re not wanting to purchase a bike, why not try out a spin/cycle class at a local fitness centre? They are a great way to get motivated and test out if cycling is up your alley.

Written by Dr. Noel Duncan