Have you thought about starting to ride a bike? You might think cycling is just a way to get around faster, but it’s much more than that. Cycling is an investment in your health, the environment, and your social life. Besides saving you time and money, cycling brings incredible benefits. Read on to discover how cycling can improve your health, contribute to the environment, and bring everyday victories!
Investing in your health
Cycling is an excellent way to exercise your cardiovascular system, strengthen muscles, increase endurance, and reduce stress levels. Regular cycling helps reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
The average cyclist can burn about 300 calories in 30 minutes of pedaling.
A study in the Netherlands found that people who cycle regularly have a 30% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease than those who don’t.
The lung capacity of cyclists and cycling enthusiasts is quite large, not only compared to pedestrians but also to professional athletes. This figure can reach a record 9 liters compared to the usual 6 liters. A cyclist’s bloodstream pumps 6-7 liters of oxygen through the body in one minute, compared to 3-4 liters for ordinary people.
Cycling’s eco-friendliness
In today’s world, where urban populations are rapidly increasing, environmental pollution is becoming a more urgent issue. According to the World Health Organization, car emissions cause around 7 million deaths annually. The best way to address this environmental problem is to reduce the number of cars on city streets, and bikes are the most economical and eco-friendly alternative.
Bicycles are the quietest and lightest form of transportation and take up less space on roads and in parking areas, meaning they free up space for others. It’s believed that 20 parked bicycles take up the same amount of space as one car. And those 20 bikes don’t pollute the environment nearly as much as one car can.
Your boss will love you
First, you’ll arrive at work earlier than others. Using a bicycle, you get to your destination twice as fast as by car or public transport, avoiding traffic jams. Researchers from the University of Bristol conducted a study on hundreds of workers and found that those who cycle to work or during lunch breaks manage their time better, are more motivated, and handle stress more easily. The study also found that cyclists build rapport with colleagues more quickly, spend less time on breaks, and are more likely to finish work on time.
Family time and setting a good example
Cycling is a great opportunity to spend time with family and children. Communication, good emotions, outdoor strolls, and family outings often stay in a child’s memory for years. Also, the cycling habits of parents can produce good results. If your child sees their parents committing to a healthy lifestyle, which you share together, they will likely continue this tradition.
Solve your insomnia problem
Yes, and not just because you’ll become more tired. While cycling, your blood is intensely enriched with oxygen, which flows to brain cells. This oxygenation makes your sleep deeper and healthier. Additionally, cycling helps relieve stress hormones like cortisol, which often cause insomnia.
A great way to explore new places
Cycling is a fun and exciting way to travel and explore new places.
What’s more, getting off the beaten path gives you a chance to discover areas inaccessible by car. No matter where you live, you’re sure to find miles of forest roads and trails where you can ride your mountain or gravel bike.
Cycling allows you to enjoy new locations, stop as many times as you want, and take as many photos as your heart desires. That’s something much harder to do by car. Whatever motivates you to spend more time on two wheels, there’s no doubt you’re on the right path.
13th Split Biking Tour – a perfect opportunity to try cycling in Split
If all this has inspired you to start cycling, there’s no better opportunity to join than the 13th Split Biking Tour! This year, the event takes place on September 22, World Car-Free Day, further drawing attention to the congestion of city streets and the lack of cycling infrastructure in Split. By registering for the event, you become part of a global initiative for a healthier lifestyle and sustainable transportation.
Take this opportunity for a group ride, fun, and participation in various activities such as exciting BMX stunts, a raffle, an eco-quiz, and much more! Register by September 20 and become an active participant in the movement for a better Split. See you at the event!