Why cycling?
Cycling is a wonderful method of physical activity and is a low-impact type of physical activity that not only will provide you with an array benefits, but also keep the impact on your joints and bones to a minimum. Not only will you be able to improve your physical and mental health, you can also travel while doing so.
Benefits of cycling to work or campus
Cycling to work or campus is a great way to reap the health benefits associated with cycling, and there are other benefits including environmental, financial, and societal benefits. Here are just a few of the benefits associated with cycling to your workplace or campus:
- Reduced carbon footprint;
- Reduced costs associated with travelling by car – you can save on both fuel and parking costs;
- Improved health benefits;
- Lower stress levels;
- More productivity at work or campus and
- Opportunity to increase social engagement.
Health benefits of cycling
Some of the health benefits you may experience when cycling include:
- Increased cardio-respiratory fitness;
- Improvement in balance and coordination;
- Increased muscular endurance and strength;
- Reduced risk of coronary heart disease and stroke;
- Lower risk of certain types of cancers;
- Improved management of conditions such as high blood pressure, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and type 2 diabetes;
- Reduced risk of depression and
- Improved sleep quality.
Cycling to meet the National Physical Activity Guidelines
Remember that some form of physical activity is better than none, more is better than some, and any amount of physical activity you do can result in greater health benefits. Cycling is a great way to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, whether it is a recreational cycle or cycling for transport.
The National Guidelines on Physical Activity for Ireland recommend that adults, aged 18-64, should aim to be physically active for ‘at least 30 minutes a day of moderate activity on 5 days a week (or 150 minutes a week)’. Moderate activity is activity that causes you to be warm or slightly sweating while remaining comfortable, increases your breathing and heart rate, while still being able to hold a conversation.
For more information on the National Physical Activity Guidelines of Ireland, including guidelines for adults with a disability, please visit HSE – Physical Activity Guidelines.