The benefits of cycling for your health, well-being and environment
Cycling is one of the most popular and healthy forms of transportation and recreation in the Netherlands. We cycle an average of about 15 kilometers a day, and it brings us many benefits. Cycling is not only good for our bodies, but also for our minds and our planet. In this article, we list the main benefits of cycling.
Cycling is good for your cardiovascular system
Cycling is an excellent way to keep your cardiovascular system in shape. By cycling, you increase your heart rate and breathing, pumping your blood through your body faster and better. This allows for better oxygen and energy delivery to your organs and muscles, and faster removal of waste products. Cycling also lowers your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack or stroke. According to the Cyclists Union, cyclists have a 52 percent lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease than non-cyclists.
Cycling is good for your muscles and bones
Cycling is a form of exercise that strengthens your muscles and bones. Cycling primarily uses your leg muscles, but also your back, abdominal and arm muscles. This improves muscle mass and muscle strength, so you burn more calories and are less likely to be overweight. Cycling also stimulates the production of bone tissue, making your bones firmer and reducing your risk of osteoporosis or osteoporosis. Cycling is also less stressful on your joints than running or walking, for example, because your body weight is distributed across your saddle, handlebars and pedals. Cycling also improves the lubrication of your joints, reducing the incidence of osteoarthritis or joint pain.
Cycling is good for your brain and mood
Cycling is not only good for your body, but also for your brain and your mood. Cycling makes you produce endorphins, a substance that makes you feel happy and reduces stress. Cycling also improves your concentration, memory and creativity because you bring more oxygen and glucose to your brain. Cycling can also help prevent or reduce depression, anxiety and burnout because you clear your head and increase your self-confidence. Bicycling can also have a positive effect on your social life, because you have more contact with other people, such as when you cycle together or greet someone along the way.
Cycling is good for the environment and the climate
Cycling is one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly forms of transportation. By biking, you don't emit pollutants such as CO2, NOx and particulate matter, which contribute to global warming and air pollution. Cycling also reduces noise and traffic congestion, making your living environment more pleasant. Cycling also saves energy and resources because you need less fuel and parts than a car or motorcycle. Cycling is also good for your wallet because you spend less money on fuel, parking fees, insurance and maintenance. So by biking, you are contributing to a greener and healthier world.
Cycling is one of the best things you can do for your health, well-being and environment. It is a simple, fun and inexpensive way to stay fit and happy, and to reduce your carbon footprint. So what are you waiting for? Get on your bike and enjoy the many benefits cycling offers you!