Cycling isn't just a leisurely activity or a mode of transportation; it's a powerful tool for weight loss and overall health improvement. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, hopping on a bike and hitting the road can offer numerous benefits for shedding that extra weight.
Here are eight reasons why cycling – whether outdoors, or indoors with a cycling app like ROUVY – is a healthy and effective way to lose weight.
Cycling burns calories efficiently
Cycling is a highly effective cardiovascular exercise that can help you burn a significant amount of calories. The number of calories burned depends on factors such as your weight, intensity of cycling, and duration. On average, cycling at a moderate pace of around 18-22 kilometres per hour can burn anywhere from 400 to 750 calories per hour.
Safe, low-impact exercise
Unlike high-impact exercises, cycling is gentle on the joints. This makes it an excellent option for individuals with joint pain or those who are overweight and looking to avoid excessive strain on their bodies.
Cycling allows you to get a rigorous workout without the risk of any impact-related injuries, which can more easily be picked up through sports such as running.
Builds muscle and speeds up metabolism
Cycling primarily targets the muscles in the lower body, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and glutes. As you pedal, these muscles are engaged and strengthened, leading to improved muscle tone and increased calorie expenditure, even at rest. Additionally, cycling boosts your metabolism, which means you'll continue to burn calories even after you've finished your ride.
